A Deep Dive into the Undead World of Black Ops III
Call of Duty Zombies. The very name conjures images of frantic gameplay, hordes of the undead, and the desperate struggle for survival. Over the years, the Zombies mode has evolved from a simple bonus feature to a full-fledged phenomenon, captivating millions of players with its complex narratives, challenging gameplay, and endlessly replayable maps. And at the heart of this undead empire lies Black Ops III, arguably the pinnacle of the Zombies experience. Black Ops III delivered a suite of maps that raised the bar for detail, complexity, and sheer fun. But which of these maps reigns supreme, and which ones fall short of the mark? This article will delve into the dark, zombie-infested corners of Black Ops III, ranking each of the core maps from worst to best, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and lasting impact on the Zombies landscape. Why is this one entry so highly regarded? Let’s find out.
Before we dive into the ranking, it’s crucial to understand the context of Black Ops III Zombies. The game isn’t just a collection of maps; it’s a deep and intricate chapter in the larger Aether storyline. This saga, spanning multiple games, centers around four iconic characters: Richtofen, the mad scientist; Dempsey, the battle-hardened marine; Takeo, the honorable samurai; and Nikolai, the vodka-loving soldier. Their journey through time and dimensions is at the core of the Zombies experience.
Black Ops III introduced several key gameplay mechanics that further enhanced the Zombies formula. The introduction of Gobblegums, consumable power-ups that granted temporary abilities, added a new layer of strategy and customization. The Weapon Kit system, allowing players to modify their weapons with attachments, offered greater flexibility in combat. The experience point and leveling system provided a sense of progression, encouraging players to grind and unlock new content. These mechanics were revolutionary at the time and deeply enhanced the overall experience of playing the game. Each downloadable content drop increased the play time as well for many fans. The changes were certainly welcome.
Analyzing Each Map: A Journey Through the Undead Landscape
Let’s take a detailed look at each map, exploring their unique features, difficulty, and overall appeal.
Shadows of Evil: A Noir Nightmare
Shadows of Evil plunges players into the dark and gritty world of Morg City, a fictional metropolis steeped in the atmosphere of the nineteen-forties. This map instantly distinguishes itself through its unique setting. The map’s protagonists are far from heroes, as each character struggles with their own demons and dark secrets. The map’s tone is reflected in every grimy alleyway and dimly lit street corner.
The map is defined by its intricate setup. Players must navigate a complex web of rituals and challenges to unlock the Pack-a-Punch machine and access the full range of weapons. The Beast mode, which allows players to transform into a monstrous creature with special abilities, adds a dynamic element to the gameplay. The map also boasts the Apothicon Servant, a powerful wonder weapon capable of obliterating entire hordes of zombies.
However, Shadows of Evil is not without its flaws. Its high difficulty and convoluted setup can be overwhelming for casual players. While it’s not for everyone, its complexity and atmosphere continue to captivate many die-hard zombies fans. It does tend to favor experienced players.
The Giant: A Nostalgic Trip Back in Time
The Giant is a remastered version of the classic Der Riese map from World at War. While technically a bonus map included with certain editions of Black Ops III, it holds a special place in the hearts of many Zombies fans. Setting wise, not much has changed, but the atmosphere is still there.
The Giant retains the simple yet addictive gameplay of the original. Teleporters allow players to quickly traverse the map, while the Pack-a-Punch machine offers a powerful upgrade to their weapons. The Giant is considered an easier map compared to other Black Ops III offerings, making it a good starting point for new players.
However, its lack of new content compared to the original Der Riese can be a drawback for some. Still, its nostalgia factor and straightforward gameplay continue to make it a popular choice. It’s definitely worth playing for new players and old ones alike.
Der Eisendrache: Medieval Mayhem
Der Eisendrache transports players to a medieval castle nestled in the Austrian Alps. The map’s setting is visually stunning, with snow-covered peaks and imposing stone walls. The location is a great choice for a Zombie map and adds another layer to the game itself.
The elemental bows, powerful wonder weapons with unique abilities, are the map’s defining feature. Players must complete a series of challenges to acquire and upgrade these bows, adding a satisfying element of progression. The Panzer Soldat, a formidable armored enemy, also provides a significant challenge.
Der Eisendrache offers a good balance between difficulty and reward, making it one of the most popular Black Ops III Zombie maps. While it can be repetitive at times, its balanced gameplay and satisfying progression make it a must-play. It is still talked about today in many online forums.
Zetsubou No Shima: Island of Despair
Zetsubou No Shima plunges players into a dark and eerie Japanese island research facility. The map’s atmosphere is oppressive, with overgrown vegetation and unsettling experiments gone awry. Every plant, or lack thereof, really adds to the overall tone of the map.
The map is characterized by its unique mechanics. Players must cultivate plants to gain access to resources and upgrades. The spider boss, a terrifying creature that lurks in the shadows, adds a significant threat. The Skull of Nan Sapwe, a powerful artifact, provides a valuable tool for survival.
Zetsubou No Shima is a challenging map that requires a lot of setup and planning. While its unique mechanics can be intriguing, they can also be tedious. Its high difficulty makes it a less popular choice compared to other Black Ops III maps. However, those who appreciate a challenge will find a lot to love here.
Gorod Krovi: A City Under Siege
Gorod Krovi throws players into the heart of Stalingrad during World War II, as the city is under siege by zombie hordes and mechanized dragons. The map’s setting is chaotic and action-packed, with explosions and gunfire erupting all around. If you love action, this is your map.
The dragons, which can be ridden and used to attack enemies, are the map’s most prominent feature. The map also features the Groph Pod, a teleportation device, and a powerful shield. The Valkyrie Drone also is a very fun new mechanic.
Gorod Krovi is an extremely challenging map that requires precise execution and strategic thinking. While its action-packed gameplay and visually stunning setting are impressive, its unforgiving difficulty can be off-putting for some. It’s a real test of skill for experienced players.
Revelations: A Multiverse of Madness
Revelations is an interdimensional map that brings together fragments of previous Zombies locations. The map’s setting is surreal and dreamlike, with familiar landmarks twisted and distorted. The map truly is a multiverse of madness.
The Apothicon, a massive creature that dominates the map, is a key element of the gameplay. The map also features Thrashers, powerful enemies that can teleport and inflict heavy damage. The main negative of this map is how disjointed it can feel at times.
Revelations combines elements from previous maps, but it can also feel disjointed and lacking in originality. Its controversial Easter Egg has also been a source of debate among Zombies fans. It’s an interesting experiment, but it doesn’t quite live up to the standards of the other Black Ops III maps.
Ranking the Undead: From Worst to Best
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: ranking the Black Ops III Zombie maps. This ranking is based on a combination of factors, including atmosphere, gameplay, replayability, difficulty, Easter Egg complexity, and overall enjoyment.
The lowest spot goes to:
- Revelations: It may be a decent map, but it’s just too disjointed and unoriginal. It’s a nice experiment, but it doesn’t quite capture the magic of the other maps.
Next on the list is:
- Zetsubou No Shima: Its unique mechanics and challenging gameplay are admirable, but its high difficulty and tedious setup make it a less enjoyable experience for most players.
Next on the list:
- The Giant: While a nostalgic trip, it lacks the depth and content of the other maps.
Moving up the list:
- Shadows of Evil: Its complex setup and high difficulty can be off-putting, but its unique atmosphere and rewarding gameplay make it a memorable experience.
Nearly the best:
- Gorod Krovi: Its action-packed gameplay and visually stunning setting are impressive, but its unforgiving difficulty can be frustrating.
And finally, the best:
- Der Eisendrache: Its balanced gameplay, satisfying progression, and iconic elemental bows make it the ultimate Black Ops III Zombies experience.
The Enduring Legacy of Black Ops III Zombies
Black Ops III Zombies has left an indelible mark on the Call of Duty franchise and the Zombies community as a whole. Its intricate narratives, challenging gameplay, and endlessly replayable maps have captivated millions of players around the world. The fact that people are still talking about these maps proves that this entry in the Zombies series has really stood the test of time.
Black Ops III Zombies continues to be held in high regard due to its deep storyline, innovative gameplay mechanics, and unforgettable characters. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of the Zombies mode and its ability to connect with players on a deep and emotional level.
Compared to other Call of Duty Zombies games, Black Ops III stands out for its refined gameplay mechanics, diverse range of maps, and captivating storyline. While other games have attempted to replicate its success, none have quite managed to capture the same magic. Black Ops III raised the bar for what a Zombies game could be, and its influence can still be felt in subsequent installments.
The availability of custom zombies and mods on the PC version of Black Ops III has further extended its lifespan. These community-created maps and modifications offer new and exciting ways to experience the game, ensuring that it remains fresh and engaging for years to come. The community is still very much involved in this game, which is awesome.
The Undead Endures
Black Ops III Zombies is more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Its maps have become iconic, its characters beloved, and its gameplay legendary. Whether you’re a seasoned Zombies veteran or a newcomer to the undead world, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Black Ops III.
So, grab your weapon, gather your friends, and prepare to face the horde. The Zombies await. What are your favorite Black Ops III Zombie maps? Let us know in the comments below! Revisit the game and check out how many new things there are to see.
