Introduction
Call of Duty: Black Ops Two stands as a monumental title within the franchise, celebrated not just for its groundbreaking campaign and multiplayer innovations, but for its unforgettable contributions to the Zombies universe. Among the various additions to the franchise, the Black Ops Two zombies maps hold a particularly special place in the hearts of fans. These maps weren’t merely extensions of a game mode; they were meticulously crafted experiences, each boasting its own unique setting, characters, mechanics, and challenges. The Black Ops Two zombies maps delivered a variety of experiences that catered to different play styles, further solidifying the game’s position as a cornerstone of the Zombies community.
The popularity and enduring impact of the Black Ops Two zombies maps cannot be overstated. From the sprawling expanse of Tranzit to the chilling confines of Mob of the Dead, each map has left an indelible mark on the Zombies genre. The maps have spawned countless hours of gameplay, strategy discussions, and community collaborations.
This article aims to delve into the intricate details of each Black Ops Two zombies map, exploring their unique features, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately celebrating the unforgettable experiences they provide. While the question of which map reigns supreme is subjective, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the factors that make each map special.
Tranzit: A Divisive Beginning
Tranzit, often the first experience many players had with Black Ops Two zombies, is undoubtedly the most divisive map in the game. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland dotted with remnants of civilization, Tranzit presents a bleak and unforgiving landscape. The overall atmosphere is one of desolation and constant threat, as players must navigate the treacherous terrain to survive.
The map introduces several unique features that set it apart from previous Zombies installments. The most prominent is the bus system, a rickety vehicle driven by a robotic bus driver that transports players between key locations. The bus serves as both a means of transportation and a mobile defense platform, but it also presents its own challenges. Zombies can swarm the bus, forcing players to defend it while it’s in motion.
Tranzit also features an extensive buildable system. Players can scavenge parts scattered throughout the map to construct various contraptions, such as turrets, shields, and even a powerful jet gun. These buildables offer strategic advantages, allowing players to customize their defenses and adapt to different situations. One can construct an electric trap for defense.
Another unique element of Tranzit is the presence of Denizens, small, shadowy creatures that cling to players and slow them down. These pests add an extra layer of challenge, forcing players to constantly be aware of their surroundings and take measures to avoid or eliminate them.
Despite its innovative features, Tranzit has faced its fair share of criticisms. The map’s dense fog and pools of lava can be frustrating, hindering visibility and restricting movement. The bus’s slow speed and predictable route can also become tedious. Some players have also expressed dissatisfaction with the map’s complex layout and the constant need to scavenge for parts.
Despite its shortcomings, Tranzit possesses certain strengths. It serves as an excellent introduction to the Zombies mode for new players, teaching them the basics of survival and resource management. The map also offers memorable moments, such as epic bus rides and frantic battles against hordes of zombies. Despite being so controversial, it is still an excellent Call of Duty Zombies map. The potential for unique strategies and creative builds further enhances the map’s replayability.
Nuketown Zombies: Chaos in Suburbia
Nuketown Zombies transports players to a familiar location, a replica of a suburban neighborhood designed for nuclear testing. This map delivers a stark contrast to the sprawling landscapes of other Zombie maps. Nuketown Zombies is characterized by its small size and intense gameplay.
The map’s confined spaces force players into close-quarters combat, demanding quick reflexes and strategic positioning. The cramped layout also intensifies the sense of panic and desperation, as zombies can swarm players from multiple directions.
The locations of the perks on Nuketown Zombies are key to survival. Players must carefully plan their routes and prioritize purchasing perks to enhance their abilities and improve their chances of survival. The need to constantly move and adapt to changing circumstances adds to the map’s frenetic pace.
The zombie spawns in Nuketown Zombies are unpredictable, adding to the map’s chaotic nature. Players must be constantly vigilant, as zombies can emerge from seemingly anywhere. This constant threat forces players to remain on their toes and adapt their strategies on the fly.
Nuketown Zombies also features a small Easter Egg, adding a bit of mystery and reward for dedicated players. While not as complex as the main Easter Eggs on other maps, it provides a fun diversion and a sense of accomplishment.
Die Rise: Vertical Warfare
Die Rise presents a unique and challenging experience set within a collapsing skyscraper in China. The map’s most striking feature is its vertical layout, forcing players to navigate multiple levels and precarious platforms.
The elevators and falling mechanics are integral to Die Rise’s gameplay. Players must strategically use elevators to traverse the map, but they must also be wary of falling to their deaths. The constant threat of falling adds an element of tension and requires players to be precise with their movements.
Die Rise also introduces a host of buildables, including the Trample Steam and Sliquifier. The Trample Steam allows players to launch themselves across gaps and access hard-to-reach areas, while the Sliquifier fires a stream of liquid that causes zombies to slip and slide, creating hilarious and chaotic situations. The Paralyzer is another weapon in the map that can be used for crowd control.
Navigating the vertical map layout of Die Rise presents a significant challenge. Players must constantly be aware of their surroundings and plan their routes carefully. The map’s complex structure can be disorienting, and it’s easy to get lost or fall to one’s doom.
Teamwork and communication are essential for success on Die Rise. Players must coordinate their movements and work together to defend each other from zombie attacks. The map’s verticality also requires players to communicate effectively to warn each other of incoming threats.
Mob of the Dead: A Prison of Souls
Mob of the Dead immerses players in the dark and captivating atmosphere of Alcatraz Island, a notorious prison haunted by the spirits of its former inmates. The map boasts a compelling storyline and unforgettable characters, making it a favorite among many Zombies fans.
The afterlife mechanic adds a unique twist to the gameplay. When a player dies, they are transported to the afterlife, where they can shock zombies and power up certain mechanisms. This allows players to continue contributing to the team even after death, and it adds a strategic layer to the gameplay.
Mob of the Dead also features a range of buildables, including the plane and the Acid Gat Kit. The plane allows players to escape Alcatraz Island, while the Acid Gat Kit upgrades the Blundergat shotgun, transforming it into a powerful zombie-killing machine. The Hell’s Retriever/Redeemer is another weapon in the map that can be used for killing zombies.
The map’s story centers around four infamous gangsters who are trapped on Alcatraz Island and forced to relive their final days. The characters are well-developed and their dialogue adds depth and humor to the gameplay.
Cooperative gameplay is crucial for success on Mob of the Dead. Players must work together to complete the Easter Egg quest, which involves solving puzzles, collecting items, and ultimately escaping the island. This all requires extensive strategy.
Buried: A Western Town with Secrets
Buried transports players to an underground Western town, filled with quirky characters and hidden secrets. The map offers a more relaxed atmosphere than other Zombies maps, but it still provides plenty of challenges and rewards for those who explore its depths.
Leroy, also known as Arthur, is a friendly giant who can be used to aid in gameplay. Players can feed him candy to make him perform various tasks, such as holding zombies in place or opening doors. Leroy adds a unique dynamic to the gameplay, and he can be a valuable asset in surviving the hordes.
Buried features a variety of buildables, including the Headchopper and the Turbine. The Headchopper is a trap that decapitates zombies, while the Turbine powers up certain mechanisms and provides a source of electricity. The bank and the weapon locker are also key for the gameplay. There is also a witch that roams around the map.
The strategic use of Leroy is essential for success on Buried. Players must carefully manage his actions and use him to their advantage to overcome challenges.
The map’s Easter Egg is a complex quest that involves completing a series of tasks and solving puzzles. Completing the Easter Egg unlocks a special reward and provides a sense of accomplishment.
Conclusion
The Black Ops Two zombies maps have left an enduring legacy on the Zombies genre, shaping the way players experience the mode and inspiring countless future installments. Each map, from the sprawling landscapes of Tranzit to the chilling confines of Mob of the Dead, offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Tranzit introduced innovative features such as the bus system and buildables, while Nuketown Zombies delivered chaotic and intense gameplay in a familiar setting. Die Rise challenged players with its vertical layout and precarious platforms, while Mob of the Dead captivated them with its dark story and unforgettable characters. Buried provided a more relaxed atmosphere, but it still offered plenty of challenges and rewards for those who explored its depths.
Ultimately, the choice of a favorite Black Ops Two zombies map is a subjective one. Each map has its own strengths and weaknesses, and each offers a unique experience that appeals to different players. But regardless of individual preferences, there’s no denying the impact and lasting legacy of the Black Ops Two zombies maps. These maps have provided countless hours of entertainment, fostered a vibrant community, and cemented their place in the history of gaming.
Which Black Ops Two zombies map is your favorite, and why? Take some time to enjoy all the maps and find your favorite.
