Is MW3 the Last MW?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, released in 2011, is the final installment in the original Modern Warfare series. The game’s story concluded the trilogy, providing a sense of closure for players who had followed the series from the beginning.
The Original Trilogy’s Legacy
The Modern Warfare series was a groundbreaking departure from the traditional Call of Duty formula. It focused on a more realistic, story-driven experience, exploring the consequences of war and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers. The original trilogy, consisting of Modern Warfare, Modern Warfare 2, and Modern Warfare 3, set the bar high for future Call of Duty games.
A Direct Sequel to Modern Warfare 2
Modern Warfare 3 picks up where Modern Warfare 2 left off, continuing the story of Captain Price and the Task Force 141 as they face off against Vladimir Makarov and the Russian ultranationalist movement. The game’s campaign is a direct sequel, offering a thrilling conclusion to the story arc.
Why It’s the Last Modern Warfare Game
There are several reasons why Modern Warfare 3 is the last game in the original series:
- Story Closure: The game’s narrative concludes the story of the Task Force 141, providing a sense of closure for players.
- No Further Story Potential: The events of Modern Warfare 3 wrap up the Russian ultranationalist plot, leaving no further story potential for the original series.
- Evolution of the Franchise: The Call of Duty franchise has evolved significantly since the release of Modern Warfare 3, with the introduction of new game engines, gameplay mechanics, and narratives.
What’s Next for the Modern Warfare Series?
Although the original Modern Warfare series concluded with Modern Warfare 3, the franchise has since seen a reboot with Modern Warfare (2019) and Modern Warfare II (2022). These new games offer a fresh take on the series, introducing new characters, storylines, and gameplay mechanics.
Comparison of the Two Modern Warfare Series
| Original Modern Warfare Series | Rebooted Modern Warfare Series | |
|---|---|---|
| Story | Story-driven, focused on a specific narrative arc | Open-world, sandbox-style gameplay with a more open narrative |
| Gameplay | Fast-paced, action-oriented | Emphasis on tactical gameplay and player choice |
| Setting | Modern-day conflicts, primarily in Europe and the Middle East | Global conflicts, with a focus on modern-day threats |
| Characters | Iconic characters like Captain Price and Soap MacTavish | New characters, including Captain John Price and Kyle "Gaz" Garrick |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is the last game in the original Modern Warfare series. The game’s story provides a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, and the series’ legacy continues to inspire future Call of Duty games. While the rebooted Modern Warfare series offers a fresh take on the franchise, the original series will always be remembered for its impact on the gaming industry.
Additional Resources
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Game Review
- The Evolution of the Modern Warfare Series
- What’s Next for the Modern Warfare Series?