Infinite Warfare Zombies: The Best After Black Ops 3?

Hey guys! Let's dive into a spicy topic in the Call of Duty zombies community: Infinite Warfare Zombies. Often overshadowed, this mode has a dedicated fanbase that believes it's the true successor to the Black Ops 3 zombies experience. While opinions are subjective, let's break down why some players champion Infinite Warfare Zombies and whether it really holds up as the best zombies mode since BO3.

Why Infinite Warfare Zombies Has a Cult Following

For many zombies enthusiasts, Infinite Warfare Zombies brought a refreshing take on the formula while retaining the core elements we all love. It dared to be different, and that's a big reason why it's earned such a dedicated following. It's more than just a simple rehash; it's a vibrant, unique experience that stands on its own two feet. Let's get into some of the reasons why this mode has garnered such a strong cult following.

The 80s Theme and Campy Horror

One of the most immediate and striking aspects of Infinite Warfare Zombies is its bold 80s theme. Forget the gritty realism; this is all about neon lights, radical soundtracks, and cheesy horror movie tropes. It's a deliberate departure from the more serious tones of previous zombies modes, and that's a big part of its charm. Think Stranger Things meets Night of the Living Dead, and you're on the right track. The settings range from a twisted summer camp to a rave in the woods, each oozing with personality and nostalgia. This theme isn't just cosmetic; it seeps into every aspect of the game, from the characters to the weapons to the special abilities.

The campy horror vibe isn't just about the visuals; it's woven into the very fabric of the gameplay. The zombies themselves are often dressed in outlandish costumes, and the special enemies are straight out of B-movie nightmares. The storylines, while still having underlying serious elements, embrace the absurdity, delivering plenty of laugh-out-loud moments alongside the scares. This tonal shift might not be for everyone, but for those who enjoy a bit of levity with their zombie slaying, Infinite Warfare hits the sweet spot.

Unique and Engaging Maps

Infinite Warfare Zombies boasts a collection of maps that are not only visually stunning but also packed with innovative mechanics and intricate Easter eggs. Each map has its own distinct identity, offering a diverse range of gameplay experiences that keep players coming back for more. The map design is where Infinite Warfare Zombies really shines. Each location is meticulously crafted, with hidden pathways, interactive elements, and secrets galore. These aren't just arenas for zombie slaying; they're living, breathing environments that reward exploration and experimentation. You'll want to spend hours uncovering every nook and cranny, solving puzzles, and triggering Easter eggs.

• Spaceland is the quintessential Infinite Warfare Zombies experience, set in a retro-futuristic amusement park. It's colorful, chaotic, and full of surprises. From the iconic Hoff boss fight to the numerous mini-games scattered throughout the park, Spaceland is a non-stop thrill ride. The nostalgic setting, combined with the innovative gameplay mechanics, makes it a fan favorite.
• Rave in the Redwoods throws you into a 90s-themed rave in the middle of a creepy forest. This map introduces the Slasher, a terrifying new enemy type, and features a killer soundtrack that perfectly complements the intense action. The map's darker tone and claustrophobic environments create a sense of dread that's both exhilarating and unsettling.
• Shaolin Shuffle transports you to 1970s New York City, where you'll fight zombies in a kung fu movie setting. This map features unique martial arts abilities and a groovy soundtrack, adding a distinct flavor to the zombies formula. The combination of martial arts combat and zombie slaying is a match made in heaven, offering a fast-paced and satisfying gameplay experience.
• Attack of the Radioactive Thing is a classic B-movie monster flick brought to life. Set in a dilapidated beach town, this map features a giant radioactive monster that adds a new layer of challenge to the gameplay. The map's tongue-in-cheek tone and over-the-top action make it a memorable and enjoyable experience.
• The Beast from Beyond concludes the Infinite Warfare Zombies storyline, taking you to a frozen space station overrun with alien zombies. This map is the most challenging of the bunch, with tight corridors and relentless hordes of enemies. It's a fitting end to the saga, offering a climactic battle against the undead.

The Return of the Fun, but Complex, Easter Eggs

Easter eggs have always been a staple of the zombies mode, and Infinite Warfare takes them to a whole new level. These aren't just simple side quests; they're intricate, multi-step challenges that require teamwork, communication, and a whole lot of brainpower. The Easter eggs in Infinite Warfare Zombies are notoriously complex, often requiring players to solve riddles, decipher codes, and complete elaborate tasks. But the reward for cracking these puzzles is immense: a sense of accomplishment, a deeper understanding of the game's lore, and, of course, a sweet in-game cutscene that wraps up the story. The Easter eggs are designed to be a collaborative effort, encouraging players to team up and work together. This fosters a strong sense of community, as players share tips, strategies, and discoveries online.

But it's not just about the complexity; it's about the sheer variety of Easter eggs on offer. Each map is packed with secrets, from simple side quests to major story-driven objectives. This ensures that there's always something new to discover, even after dozens of hours of gameplay. Whether you're a seasoned Easter egg hunter or a newcomer to the zombies mode, Infinite Warfare has something to challenge and reward you.

Superb Cast of Characters

The characters in Infinite Warfare Zombies are not just avatars; they're fully fleshed-out personalities with their own quirks, backstories, and motivations. You'll grow to love their banter, their reactions to the chaos around them, and their willingness to risk everything to survive. Each character brings something unique to the table, and their interactions with each other are often hilarious and heartwarming.

The BO3 Factor: Why the Comparison?

Black Ops 3 Zombies is widely considered a pinnacle of the zombies formula, so it's natural to compare any subsequent installment to it. BO3 set a high bar with its complex maps, deep storyline, and the introduction of Gobblegums, which added a new layer of strategic depth to the gameplay. It's a tough act to follow, no doubt. Black Ops 3's success lies in its ability to blend intricate map design with a compelling narrative and innovative gameplay mechanics. The maps are sprawling and labyrinthine, filled with secrets and Easter eggs to discover. The story, while complex and at times convoluted, is rich in lore and character development. And the Gobblegum system, while controversial among some purists, added a layer of customization and strategic decision-making that was unlike anything seen before in the zombies mode.

So, why does Infinite Warfare get brought up in the same breath? Well, while BO3 leaned into a darker, more serious tone, Infinite Warfare took a different approach, opting for a more lighthearted and comedic experience. This contrast in style is one of the key reasons why some players prefer Infinite Warfare. It's not necessarily about which mode is objectively better; it's about which one resonates more with your personal preferences. Both games offer a unique take on the zombies formula, and both have their strengths and weaknesses. It's this diversity that keeps the zombies community thriving.

Where Infinite Warfare Zombies Shines

Infinite Warfare Zombies distinguishes itself from Black Ops 3 and other entries in several key areas:

• Accessibility: While still challenging, Infinite Warfare Zombies is generally considered more accessible to new players. The maps are less punishing, and the mechanics are easier to grasp. This doesn't mean it's a cakewalk; it just means that the learning curve is a bit gentler, making it a great entry point for newcomers to the zombies mode.
• Originality: It dared to be different, with its 80s theme, celebrity cast, and unique map designs. This willingness to break from tradition is what sets it apart and what has earned it a dedicated following. In a franchise that can sometimes feel repetitive, Infinite Warfare Zombies stands out as a breath of fresh air.
• Humor: The lighthearted tone and comedic elements make for a more enjoyable and less stressful experience for some players. This isn't to say that Infinite Warfare Zombies isn't scary; it has its moments of genuine terror. But the overall atmosphere is more playful, making it a great option for those who want a zombies experience that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Where Infinite Warfare Zombies Falls Short

Of course, no game is perfect, and Infinite Warfare Zombies has its shortcomings:

• Story: While the individual map narratives are engaging, the overarching storyline isn't as epic or compelling as the Aether storyline in Black Ops. This is a subjective point, as some players prefer the self-contained stories of each map. But for those who crave a grand, overarching narrative, Infinite Warfare Zombies might leave something to be desired.
• Gobblegums (or lack thereof): The absence of a Gobblegum-like system might be a pro for some, but others missed the strategic depth they added to BO3. The Fate & Fortune Cards in Infinite Warfare, while similar in concept, don't quite offer the same level of customization and control.
• Initial Reception: The initial negative reaction to Infinite Warfare as a whole likely impacted the perception of its zombies mode. This is a classic case of guilt by association, and it's a shame because Infinite Warfare Zombies deserves to be judged on its own merits.

The Verdict: Is It the Best Since BO3?

Whether Infinite Warfare Zombies is the best zombies experience since Black Ops 3 is ultimately a matter of personal taste. There's no definitive answer, and that's okay. What's important is that Infinite Warfare Zombies offers a unique and enjoyable experience that stands on its own merits. It's a testament to the creativity and passion of the developers, and it deserves to be recognized as a standout entry in the Call of Duty zombies franchise. If you're looking for a zombies mode that's fun, challenging, and full of surprises, Infinite Warfare Zombies is definitely worth checking out. You might just find yourself agreeing that it's the best thing to happen to zombies since Black Ops 3. For fans who appreciate a blend of humor, challenging gameplay, and a nostalgic 80s vibe, Infinite Warfare Zombies is a strong contender for the top spot. So, what do you guys think? Is Infinite Warfare Zombies a worthy successor to Black Ops 3, or does it fall short? Let's discuss in the comments below!