Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 3 (2011)
" Engaging action FPS with iconic campaign and nostalgia, but outdated graphics and security risks "
Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 3 (2011) Review
Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 3 (2011) is widely regarded as a classic and a strong conclusion to the original Modern Warfare trilogy, praised for its engaging campaign and iconic characters such as Soap, Price, and Makarov. Players appreciate the nostalgic value and the challenging gameplay, especially on Veteran difficulty, which delivers an immersive and intense experience. The Spec Ops mode, particularly Survival, is also highlighted as fun and rewarding for cooperative play.
However, the game faces criticism for its dated graphics compared to modern standards, performance issues on the PC port such as mouse acceleration and lack of native controller support, and serious security vulnerabilities in the online multiplayer that put players at risk. Many reviewers feel the price is unjustified given the game's age and issues, recommending purchase only on sale. The storyline, while memorable for fans, is considered weaker and less imaginative than its predecessor MW2, with some narrative elements feeling forced or underdeveloped.
Highlights
Players praise the campaign's engaging story and iconic characters, which provide a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. The gameplay mechanics remain solid, with challenging difficulty levels that offer a rewarding experience. The Spec Ops mode, especially Survival, is noted for its cooperative fun and replayability. The game retains nostalgic appeal and is considered one of the best classic Call of Duty titles. Fans appreciate the realistic setting without fictional elements, enhancing immersion.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include security vulnerabilities in online multiplayer that risk player safety, leading to warnings against online play. The PC port suffers from performance and control issues, including mouse acceleration and lack of native controller support. The graphics feel outdated compared to newer titles, and textures are sometimes sloppy. The price is seen as too high for a 14-year-old game, with many recommending purchase only during sales. The storyline is viewed as less imaginative and weaker than previous entries, with some narrative inconsistencies and underdeveloped characters.
Pros
- • Engaging and challenging campaign with iconic characters and memorable moments.
- • Nostalgic appeal as a classic conclusion to the Modern Warfare trilogy.
- • Solid gameplay mechanics that remain enjoyable even years later.
- • Spec Ops mode offers fun cooperative gameplay and replay value.
- • Campaign difficulty on Veteran is rewarding and immersive.
- • Realistic setting without fictional or exaggerated elements.
- • Strong fanbase connection to story and characters.
Cons
- • Serious security vulnerabilities in multiplayer put players at risk.
- • PC port has performance issues and lacks native controller support.
- • Outdated graphics and textures compared to modern standards.
- • Online multiplayer is unsafe and often exploited by hackers.
- • Price is too high for a 14-year-old game, not worth full price.
- • Storyline weaker and less imaginative than MW2, some plot holes.
- • Multiplayer experience is generally discouraged due to risks.
Rating Criteria
The best-selling first-person action series of all-time returns with an epic sequel to the multiple GOTY award winner Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 2