Replay value lies in multiplayer
The weapons in Modern Warfare 3 are a real highlight. Although the campaign can be completed without really switching weapons at all, experimentation provides a more-varied experience. For example, fire an RPG at a car to kill multiple opponents is easier than mowing them down with an AK-47. Weapons feel weighty and recoil impressively, while the smooth targeting system ensures players feel in control.
Side missions
Though the campaign does reach its conclusion fairly quickly, the replay value lies mainly in its multiplayer offerings. Spec Ops, which involves a number of side missions that can be played alone or co-operatively, is great fun. A mission may require capturing a hostage, or disarming a bomb, and every objective undertaken requires a different level of teamwork to complete.
One mission, for instance, sees one player controlling a camera armed with a turret. While he can see the enemies are coming up, the man on the ground can't. Communication, therefore, is key to reaching the end of the level without getting killed, all while rushing against the clock. Out of the whole multiplayer experience, co-op Spec Ops is a real highlight.
The main team-based multiplayer modes are still as rewarding as ever. Killstreaks, upgrades and perks combine to provide constant progression. Two new game modes: 'Kill Confirmed,' where players pick up dog-tags after each kill for points for team points, and 'Team Defender,' where you need to hold onto a flag for as long as possible while your team defends you, offer entertaining diversions from the standard game modes. It's basically the same multiplayer as MW2, albeit with these new game modes and some great new maps.
Predictable, self-indulgent, but fun
To a certain extent, Modern Warfare 3 is a totally predictable experience and therefore doesn't quite have the 'wow' factor or memorable moments that we've experienced in previous games. Nonetheless, we've still thoroughly enjoyed ploughing through the six-hour campaign with our fingers firmly on the trigger, causing total carnage. This is a self-indulgent and satisfying shooter where there's not much thought involved - you just do it, and it's made all the more exciting by the theatrical nature of the production.
Overall, Modern Warfare 3 hasn't re-written the war-gaming history books, but it has provided pretty much the experience we were expecting with more of the same from an entertaining campaign mode and comprehensive, rewarding multiplayer that is likely to keep core fans entertained for some time to come. It's quite simply a new Call Of Duty with the old experience - just as you'd expect.
The Good
Enjoyable campaign with some show-stopping momentsWeapons really pack a punch
Great Spec Ops objectives and rewarding multiplayer component
The Bad
Stealth play is really boring in single-player
Predictable campaign
HEXUS Rating
Modern Warfare 3
HEXUS Where2Buy
Modern Warfare 3 is available to buy from Play.com
HEXUS Right2Reply
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