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Call of Duty fans are gearing up for the start of Season 1 Reloaded in Modern Warfare 3. The MW3 mid-season update has a January 17 release date and a 5pm GMT UK launch time. Fans will need to download and install a big new update in order to check out the new content and continue playing online. A full list of patch notes will be revealed shortly, so keep checking back for the latest information regarding balance changes, gameplay tweaks and bug fixes.
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In the run up to the launch of the Season 1, Activision has given fans a taste of what to expect from the update.
Arguably the biggest new addition is the release of the Rio map, which is playable in 6-v-6 Core modes.
The Rio de Janeiro map takes place in an “upscale shopping centre”, which is surrounded by Main Street, a tram station, a market, a plaza, café, and residential spaces.
Activision explains more: “Use the covered walkway to get above your enemies or take cover near an armoured vehicle when fighting on street level. The mall itself rises toward the middle, so watch for enemies playing king of the hill on approach.”
If you’ve been crying out for some new game modes to enjoy, then you’ll be pleased to find out that Activision is bringing Team Gunfight, Infected and Headquarters to Modern Warfare 3.
Team Gunfight is similar to regular Gunfight, only on a bigger scale. Headquarters, meanwhile, sees teams attempt to earn points by controlling objectives as they move around the map. Finally, Infected kicks off with one player assuming the role of the infected. The Infected player wins by infecting other players who join its side.
Fans of Amazon show The Boys will be able to purchase Operator bundles from the store, and compete in a superhero-themed LTM.
This includes a “Supe’d Up version of Kill Confirmed”, which sees fallen players drop Temp V power boosts such as Heat Vision.
To encourage fans to check out the LTM, Activision is offering a selection of in-game rewards for players who compete challenges.
Finally, the Modern Warfare 3 mid-season update brings Ranked Play to Call of Duty multiplayer. The competitive 4v4 matches use the same settings, maps and modes as the Call of Duty League.
The only drawback is that you’ll need to reach level 55 in order to participate. Friendly Fire is also disabled, so you’ll need to be extra careful.
It’s also worth pointing out that Ranked Play won’t be available immediately following the release of the Reloaded update.
“Heads up competitors, MWIII Ranked Play will not be available immediately after players receive the S1 Reloaded update,” Activision explains.
“The Ranked Play team will be performing checks before enabling the mode for all players. Stay tuned for more updates.”