Zombie Apocalypse: Which Call of Duty Has the Best Zombies Mode?

The Zombies mode in Call of Duty has been a fan favorite for years, offering a unique blend of cooperative gameplay, horror elements, and addictive action. But with so many games in the series featuring this popular mode, the question remains: which CoD has the best Zombies? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to find the answer, exploring the evolution of Zombies mode, its most iconic maps, and what makes each iteration special.

The Origins of Zombies Mode

Zombies mode debuted in Call of Duty: World at War, released in 2008. Developed by Treyarch, the mode was a humble addition to the game’s multiplayer component, featuring a single map, Nacht der Untoten, and a small cast of playable characters. Despite its simple beginnings, Zombies quickly gained popularity, and subsequent games in the series built upon its success.

The Golden Age: Black Ops and Black Ops II

Call of Duty: Black Ops and its sequel, Black Ops II, are often regarded as the pinnacle of Zombies mode. The original Black Ops introduced the iconic characters of Dr. Monty, Dr. Maxis, and the mysterious Primis crew, while Black Ops II expanded the narrative and added new features, such as the Tranzit bus and the Tower of Babble.

Kino Der Toten: A Masterclass in Map Design

One of the most beloved Zombies maps of all time is Kino Der Toten, featured in Black Ops. This map is a masterclass in designing an engaging, replayable experience. The abandoned cinema setting provides a sense of claustrophobia, while the maze-like layout encourages exploration and strategy. The introduction of the “Wonder Weapons” – powerful, one-use items that can turn the tide of battle – added an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.

Treyarch’s Triumph: Black Ops III and IV

Black Ops III and IV, both developed by Treyarch, saw the Zombies mode continue to evolve and improve. These games introduced new features, such as the GobbleGum system, which allowed players to customize their experience with perks and power-ups.

Shadows of Evil: A New Era of Storytelling

Shadows of Evil, a map featured in Black Ops III, marked a significant shift in Zombies narrative. The map’s storyline, set in a dark, film noir-inspired world, explored the themes of corruption and redemption. The introduction of the “Cybernetic Augmentation” system, which allowed players to upgrade their characters, added a new layer of depth to the gameplay.

Sledgehammer’s Take: Advanced Warfare and WWII

Sledgehammer Games, the developers of Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare and WWII, brought their own unique spin to the Zombies mode.

Exo Survival: A Departure from Tradition

Advanced Warfare’s Exo Survival mode departed from the traditional Zombies formula, introducing a more fast-paced, action-oriented experience. While it received a mixed response from fans, Exo Survival remains a unique and enjoyable take on the Zombies concept.

The Darkest Shore: A Return to Form

WWII’s The Darkest Shore, developed in collaboration with Raven Software, marked a return to the series’ horror roots. The map’s atmospheric setting, inspired by German Expressionist cinema, provided a haunting backdrop for the co-op action.

Infinity Ward’s Reboot: Infinite Warfare and Modern Warfare

Infinity Ward, the original creators of the Call of Duty franchise, rebooted the Zombies mode in Infinite Warfare and Modern Warfare.

Spackman: A Modern Take on Classic Zombies

Infinite Warfare’s Spaceland, a futuristic take on the classic Zombies formula, polarized fans with its colorful, neon-lit aesthetic. While some appreciated the fresh approach, others felt it strayed too far from the series’ horror roots.

CoDCaster: A Return to the Basics

Modern Warfare’s CoDCaster, a limited-time mode introduced in 2020, stripped the Zombies experience back to its basics. This back-to-basics approach, featuring a single map and a focus on core gameplay, was well-received by fans and critics alike.

The Community’s Verdict

So, which Call of Duty has the best Zombies mode? While opinions are divided, the community generally agrees that the Black Ops series represents the pinnacle of Zombies mode. The original Black Ops and its sequel, Black Ops II, are often cited as the most beloved iterations, thanks to their engaging narratives, iconic characters, and addictive gameplay.

The Verdict: Which CoD Has the Best Zombies?

While opinions may vary, the community consensus suggests that Call of Duty: Black Ops and Black Ops II are the pinnacle of Zombies mode. The iconic characters, engaging narratives, and addictive gameplay of these games have set the standard for the series. That being said, each iteration has its unique strengths and weaknesses, and the best Zombies mode is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

Whether you’re a fan of the original Nacht der Untoten or the more recent CoDCaster, one thing is certain: the Zombies mode in Call of Duty has become an integral part of the series’ DNA, offering a unique blend of cooperative gameplay, horror elements, and addictive action. As the series continues to evolve, one thing is certain – the Zombies mode will remain a beloved and integral part of the Call of Duty experience.

What Makes Call of Duty Zombies So Popular?

Call of Duty Zombies has become a cultural phenomenon, and its popularity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the mode’s unique blend of co-op gameplay, horror elements, and fast-paced action has appealed to a wide range of players. The fact that it’s a departure from the traditional competitive multiplayer mode also helps to set it apart and provides a refreshing change of pace for players.

Additionally, the Zombies mode has evolved over the years, with each new iteration introducing new features, maps, and game modes. This has helped to keep the mode fresh and exciting, even for players who have been playing since the early days. The community surrounding Zombies is also incredibly passionate and dedicated, with many players creating their own content, such as custom maps and strategies, which further contributes to its popularity.

Is Call of Duty Zombies Mode Available in All Games?

Call of Duty Zombies mode is not available in all Call of Duty games. The mode was first introduced in Call of Duty: World at War, and since then, it has appeared in various titles, including the Black Ops series, Infinite Warfare, and WWII. However, not all Call of Duty games feature a Zombies mode, so it’s essential to check the game’s features before purchasing.

For example, the Modern Warfare series does not have a Zombies mode, instead focusing on competitive multiplayer and a single-player campaign. If you’re a fan of Zombies, it’s crucial to research the game’s features before making a purchase to ensure that it includes the mode.

What’s the Difference Between Zombies and Spec Ops?

Two popular co-op modes in Call of Duty are Zombies and Spec Ops. While both modes offer co-op gameplay, they are quite different in terms of their objectives and gameplay styles. Spec Ops is a more traditional co-op mode, where players work together to complete specific objectives, such as eliminating enemies or completing challenges.

Zombies, on the other hand, is a survival-based mode where players must fend off hordes of zombies in a variety of environments. The primary objective is to survive for as long as possible, earning points and upgrading your character along the way. The atmosphere, gameplay, and overall tone of the two modes are distinct, catering to different types of players.

Can I Play Call of Duty Zombies Solo?

While Call of Duty Zombies is designed with co-op gameplay in mind, it is possible to play solo in some games. However, the experience can be quite challenging, especially on higher difficulties. In some titles, such as Black Ops III, solo players can play Zombies mode, but they’ll need to complete the storyline and unlock the “Solo” option.

Playing solo can be a great way to learn the maps, practice strategies, and earn points, but it’s essential to be aware that the experience may not be as engaging or rewarding as playing with a team of friends. Additionally, some features, such as certain game modes or Easter eggs, may be unavailable in solo play.

What Are the Best Call of Duty Zombies Maps?

The best Call of Duty Zombies maps are a matter of personal preference, but some stand out as fan favorites. The original “Nacht der Untoten” from World at War is still widely popular, while “Kino Der Toten” from Black Ops and “Shadows of Evil” from Black Ops III are also highly regarded. More recent maps, such as “The Darkest Shore” from WWII and “Alpha Omega” from Black Ops IV, have also received critical acclaim.

These maps often feature unique environments, such as abandoned asylums, movie theaters, or even a fantasy realm. The best maps typically offer a good balance of exploration, strategy, and action, as well as plenty of Easter eggs and secrets to discover.

Are There Any Call of Duty Zombies Comics or Movies?

Yes, there are several Call of Duty Zombies comics and movies that expand on the franchise’s storyline and lore. The comics, published by Dark Horse Comics, explore the backstories of characters, maps, and events, providing a deeper understanding of the Zombies universe. These comics are often considered canon and offer valuable insights for fans.

As for movies, there haven’t been any feature-length films specifically based on Call of Duty Zombies, but there have been animated shorts and live-action trailers that showcase the mode’s action and horror elements. These videos are often produced by the game developers or partner studios and are released as promotional materials or bonus content.

Will There Be a Call of Duty Zombies Game?

While there have been rumors and fan requests for a standalone Call of Duty Zombies game, there has been no official announcement from Activision or Treyarch. However, the popularity of the mode and its dedicated fan base suggest that a spin-off game could be a viable option in the future.

If a standalone Zombies game were to be developed, it would likely require a significant overhaul of the gameplay mechanics, storyline, and features to create a compelling and engaging experience that would appeal to both existing fans and new players. Until then, fans will have to continue enjoying the mode as part of the larger Call of Duty franchise.