Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the undead world of Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 Zombies. This mode, a staple of the Black Ops series, took the zombie-slaying experience to a whole new level. We're talking intricate storylines, complex maps, and some seriously challenging gameplay. Whether you're a seasoned zombie veteran or a newbie just getting your feet wet, there's something in Black Ops 3 Zombies for everyone. So, grab your favorite weapon, assemble your crew, and let's get started!

The Evolution of Zombies in Black Ops 3

Black Ops 3 Zombies wasn't just another iteration; it was a significant evolution of the game mode. Treyarch, the masterminds behind the Black Ops series, introduced a plethora of new features and mechanics that kept players hooked for hours on end. One of the most notable additions was the Shadows of Evil map, a sprawling, noir-inspired cityscape teeming with the undead. This map wasn't just about surviving waves; it was about unraveling a complex narrative involving ritualistic sacrifices and otherworldly entities. The introduction of the Apothicon storyline added layers of depth and intrigue that hadn't been seen before in the Zombies universe.

Another key element was the expanded focus on character development and backstories. Each playable character in Shadows of Evil had their own secrets and motivations, contributing to the overall mystery of the map. This emphasis on narrative depth elevated the Zombies experience beyond a simple horde mode. The maps also featured intricate Easter eggs and side quests, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny in search of hidden secrets. Discovering these secrets often required teamwork and communication, further enhancing the social aspect of the game. The developers also refined the gameplay mechanics, introducing new weapons, perks, and equipment to aid players in their fight against the undead. This made each playthrough feel fresh and exciting, even after countless hours of gameplay.

Maps That Redefined the Zombie Experience

The maps in Black Ops 3 Zombies are legendary, each offering a unique setting and challenges that keep players coming back for more. Let's take a closer look at some of the standout locations:

Shadows of Evil

As mentioned earlier, Shadows of Evil is a cornerstone of Black Ops 3 Zombies. Set in a 1940s film noir setting, this map oozes atmosphere. The gameplay is centered around four troubled individuals brought together by a mysterious figure known as the Shadow Man. These characters, voiced by Hollywood talent like Jeff Goldblum and Ron Perlman, must work together to uncover the secrets of Morg City and confront the Apothicons, an ancient and powerful race.

Shadows of Evil introduced the concept of the Beast Mode, allowing players to transform into a tentacled monster capable of traversing the map in new ways and activating switches to progress. The map is filled with intricate rituals, hidden passages, and challenging boss fights, making it a favorite among hardcore Zombies fans. The Easter egg quest is particularly complex, requiring precise timing and coordination to complete. The map's intricate design and compelling narrative make it a standout in the Zombies franchise.

Der Eisendrache

Taking players to a medieval Austrian castle, Der Eisendrache is a map that blends classic Zombies gameplay with new and exciting elements. This map continues the story of the original Call of Duty: World at War characters – Tank Dempsey, Nikolai Belinski, Takeo Masaki, and Edward Richtofen – as they travel through time to secure powerful artifacts. The map features iconic weapons like the Wrath of the Ancients, a powerful bow that can be upgraded into four elemental variants. Each variant offers unique abilities and strategies for dealing with the undead hordes.

Der Eisendrache is known for its open layout, numerous training spots, and challenging Easter egg. The map also introduces the Panzer Soldat, a heavily armored zombie that can pose a significant threat to even the most experienced players. The map's design encourages exploration and experimentation, with hidden rooms and secret pathways waiting to be discovered. The combination of classic characters, engaging gameplay, and a stunning setting makes Der Eisendrache a fan favorite.

Gorod Krovi

Gorod Krovi transports players to a war-torn Stalingrad, where they must battle zombies amidst the ruins of a once-great city. This map introduces new weapons, enemies, and mechanics, including the Gauntlet of Siegfried, a powerful weapon that can unleash devastating attacks. Players also encounter dragons, which can be used to traverse the map and eliminate hordes of zombies. The map's challenging gameplay and intense atmosphere make it a thrilling experience.

Gorod Krovi's Easter egg is notoriously difficult, requiring players to complete a series of complex tasks and puzzles. The map also features a variety of side quests and challenges, rewarding players with valuable items and upgrades. The combination of classic Zombies gameplay with new and innovative elements makes Gorod Krovi a standout map in the Black Ops 3 Zombies lineup. The visual design of the map is particularly impressive, capturing the gritty and desolate atmosphere of war-torn Stalingrad.

Revelations

As the final chapter in the original Zombies storyline, Revelations brings together elements from previous maps to create a surreal and mind-bending experience. This map takes place in a pocket dimension created by Dr. Monty, where players must confront the Apothicons and put an end to their evil plans. Revelations features a variety of familiar locations and enemies, as well as new challenges and mechanics. The map's Easter egg is particularly complex, requiring players to complete a series of intricate tasks to unlock the final cutscene.

Revelations serves as a culmination of the storyline that began in Call of Duty: World at War, providing closure to the characters and events that have defined the Zombies universe. The map's design encourages exploration and experimentation, with hidden secrets and easter eggs waiting to be discovered. The combination of familiar elements and new surprises makes Revelations a fitting conclusion to the original Zombies saga.

Gameplay Mechanics That Set Black Ops 3 Apart

Black Ops 3 Zombies introduced several key gameplay mechanics that set it apart from previous iterations. These innovations added depth and complexity to the Zombies experience, making it more engaging and challenging than ever before.

Gobblegums

Gobblegums are consumable power-ups that provide players with temporary abilities and advantages. These range from classic perks like Speed Cola and Juggernog to more unique effects like Near Death Experience and Shopping Free. Gobblegums can be obtained through the Gobblegum machine, using points earned by killing zombies. The strategic use of Gobblegums can be crucial for surviving high rounds and completing Easter eggs.

Gobblegums added a new layer of strategy to the Zombies gameplay, allowing players to customize their loadouts and adapt to different situations. The variety of Gobblegums available ensured that there was always a new and exciting option to try. The system also encouraged players to experiment with different combinations of Gobblegums to find the most effective strategies for surviving the undead hordes. The inclusion of Gobblegums was a significant departure from previous Zombies games, but it quickly became a beloved feature among fans.

Weapon Kits and Progression

Black Ops 3 introduced a weapon kit system that allowed players to customize their weapons with attachments and camos. This system added a new level of depth to the weapon progression, allowing players to tailor their loadouts to their preferred playstyle. Players could unlock new attachments and camos by leveling up their weapons, providing a sense of progression and reward.

The weapon kit system also encouraged players to experiment with different weapons and attachments to find the most effective combinations. The ability to customize weapons added a personal touch to the Zombies experience, allowing players to create unique loadouts that suited their individual preferences. The introduction of weapon kits was a welcome addition to the Zombies gameplay, providing players with more control over their arsenal.

The Return of Classic Perks

Of course, no Zombies experience would be complete without the return of classic perks like Juggernog, Speed Cola, and Quick Revive. These perks provide players with essential abilities and advantages, making them crucial for survival. Juggernog increases health, Speed Cola speeds up reloading, and Quick Revive allows players to revive fallen teammates faster. These perks have become synonymous with the Zombies mode, and their return in Black Ops 3 was a welcome sight for fans.

These perks are strategically placed around the maps, encouraging players to explore and discover new areas. The combination of classic perks with new gameplay mechanics made Black Ops 3 Zombies a truly unique and engaging experience. The return of these iconic perks was a testament to the legacy of the Zombies mode, and their inclusion in Black Ops 3 ensured that the game stayed true to its roots.

Why Black Ops 3 Zombies Still Holds Up Today

Even years after its release, Black Ops 3 Zombies remains a popular and beloved game mode. Its engaging gameplay, intricate maps, and compelling storyline continue to captivate players around the world. The game's active community ensures that there's always someone to play with, whether you're tackling Easter eggs or simply surviving the undead hordes. The depth and replayability of Black Ops 3 Zombies make it a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed for years to come.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of Black Ops 3 Zombies and experience the ultimate undead adventure. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, there's always something new to discover in this thrilling and immersive game mode. Grab your friends, load up your weapons, and prepare for a fight against the undead!

Black Ops 3 Zombies set a new standard for the Zombies game mode, and its impact can still be felt in subsequent iterations of the franchise. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, and stunning visuals made it a standout title in the Call of Duty series. The legacy of Black Ops 3 Zombies continues to inspire developers and captivate players, solidifying its place as a true classic in the gaming world.