Zombies mode has been an integral component of Call of Duty since its inception in World at War in 2008. The game mode has evolved, resulting in unique iterations of CoD Zombies.
It has been a divided success that each installment of the series has featured an undead mode.
As a result of the continual additions and modifications, enthusiasts have argued which installment of Call of Duty featured the best undead mode.
Advantageous and inferior alternatives can be easily distinguished through the use of visual comparison.
As of this moment, the Zombies mode in Call of Duty has an extensive history.
As CoD Zombies is nearly large enough to warrant its franchise at this juncture, I will endeavor to rank each mode from worst to best.
The Zombies mode has been in existence for fifteen years, and every distinct iteration provides enthusiasts with something extraordinary.
From a deserted airfield located in a Germanic wilderness to the enigmatic cosmos of Agartha,
the mode has provided players with a once-in-a-lifetime experience since its introduction in World at War.
The course of this enormous franchise was unfathomable at the time.
Having engaged in introspection for around fifteen years, I am at last prepared to offer my evaluations concerning the preeminent zombie variants found throughout the totality of Call of Duty.
To safeguard the surprises for one’s benefit, proceed with the utmost caution.
The Call of Duty Zombies mode is meaningful to me.
A struggle against zombies is unlike any other game that gets my heart pounding; in the final rounds,
I nearly escape death while cheering and yelling in astonishment.
While not as satisfying as the franchise’s multiplayer avatar, this one is nevertheless appealing.
Zombies is one of the nicest and most devoted communities, with over a decade of experience supporting each game.
World at War books and films are still made by community leaders.
Even famous online game producers like Vanosgaming, who just published a nostalgic video of him and his classmates playing WaW’s Verruckt, have been launched by it.
All Call of Duty Zombies modes, ranked
11) Call of Duty: Vanguard
Vanguard omitted the components that enhanced the enjoyment of the Zombies mode.
The most gratifying aspect of Zombies was the incremental acquisition of additional territories from a central location.
Acquiring new areas not only augmented the level of difficulty but also fostered a sense of progression among players by granting access to opportunities to obtain ammunition and weaponry.
As an alternative to Easter eggs and wall purchases, players were granted a center world that served as a teleporter to areas containing a restricted quantity of undead.
Since the world reset, numerous players have come to the understanding that they can bypass the advancement system by repeatedly regaining particular weapons or their overall levels.
This prevented the intended sense of urgency and perilous circumstances from materializing.
One was whisked away from the distressing circumstances of a combatant isolated in a world inhabited by the undead and into the environment of a zombie video game.
Your sense of vulnerability and humanity were diminished, and the undead lacked the fortitude they once possessed.
Poor satisfaction. Zero on ten.
I may look back on Vanguard Zombies sometime, but not yet.
I played the mode after every update to pay the bills, but there’s not much meat here.
Fans wanted a proper round-based system, and while we received a vague one halfway through the game, it was too late.
I usually like Call of Duty designers’ fresh ideas, but this one was a failure.
Zombies was reintroduced in the 2021 installment Call of Duty: Vanguard, albeit in a significantly diminished capacity.
As part of a remake for Shi No Numa, Zombies only recently received a new map, despite the fact that it lacked the classic and cherished round-based gameplay until June 2022.
The gameplay in Vanguard is less than lackluster at best and is not even remotely related to zombies.
Vanguard is perceived as a disappointing installment in the Zombies franchise by the majority of its devotees.
The narrative lacks substance, given that mythology often presents a mesmerizing enigma.
Weapons, incentives, and supplementary systems do not contribute to a captivating gameplay experience.
10) Call of Duty: World War 2
Almost no risks were associated with Call of Duty WW2. Predictably, and precisely as fans had anticipated, the refined, tactile mode featured Nazi-like ghouls.
This is regrettably detrimental to the game as a whole, as safety does not always coincide with enjoyment.
Because it lacked innovation, Zombies mode was significantly devalued.
Although consisting of separate segments, it was essentially a redesigned version of the Black Ops Zombie mode.
This specific mode was created by Sledgehammer Games and is remarkably similar to every other Zombies mode.
Further, in contrast to every other Zombies variant, Vanguard was produced in excess by Sledgehammer.
De Brusk’s opposition to the development of Call of Duty video games until a compromise is reached can be inferred from the stark contrast between Vanguard and World War II.
We are, nevertheless, surpassing our current progress until the publication of MW3 in 2023.
World War II’s Zombies mode firmly established Sledgehammer Games as the mode’s secondary developer.
The Jump Scare enemies in this game are extremely endearing; I vividly remember the reactions of my companions when they first encountered them.
While the Easter eggs located on these maps did not possess the same level of profundity as a Treyarch entry,
the introduction of the unique armaments employed by the Raven Lords in The Frozen Dawn served as a masterful means of ultimately tying everything together.
9) Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare
After the first era of Modern Warfare and Black Ops video games came to an end, the caliber of CoD Zombies plummeted.
Although considerably less dreadful than Vanguard’s implementation, Advanced Warfare’s take on the popular mode Zombies was merely unimpressive.
The initial phase of the problem arose from AW’s endeavor to incorporate its newly developed Advanced Movement system into the Zombies mode,
given that every map was required to accommodate the new mechanic.
In light of the substantial gameplay modifications brought about by the newly introduced advanced movement and undead variants,
developers endeavored to countermeasure with these additions.
Despite its theoretical allure, the gameplay fails to deliver any enjoyable experiences. Such extensive experimentation diminished the game considerably.
The AW Infection map stands out despite being regarded as one of the worst undead maps in the series.
Most other items on the list will be less beneficial for adrenaline addicts than Exo Zombies. The entire PvE experience in Advanced Warfare was sensory overload.
My time in this game was shorter than in the others, but my memories are of frantic moments spent trying to kill an insanity-inducing number of enemies bent on eating my face.
It was also lauded for adding jetpacks to the Zombies mode, which was groundbreaking at the time.
Since Sledgehammer Games led their first Call of Duty game, Advanced Warfare explored with mobility more.
Zombies might move more with exoskeletons for jumping and sprinting.
The game starred Jon Bernthal, John Malkovich, and Bruce Campbell from Evil Dead.
There were several maps and enjoyable gameplay. However, it didn’t feel Treyarch.
8) Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare
If we are being really honest, the Zombies mode in Infinite Warfare is not horrible.
An otherwise dreary experience is given a dash of color, which sticks out in particular, and the cinematically infused maps add an aspect of humor to the encounter.
IW addressed everything that I enjoy about Zombies with respect, despite the fact that the celebrity cameos produced a little of confusion.
An plethora of personality more than compensates for any deficiencies,
despite the fact that the gameplay is not nearly as thrilling as the finest iterations in the series.
In addition, who does not enjoy a parody that is performed with considerable skill? To put it simply, it is the essence of IW Zombies.
Criticizing Infinity Ward’s implementation of the Zombies mode in Infinite Warfare is an exceedingly challenging task.
Large and reminiscent of vintage fairgrounds, Zombies in Spaceland was illuminated with neon signs and intense lighting.
Easter eggs that were adored by fans served as evidence that they put forth a greater effort in comparison to Vanguard.
There were two limitations associated with this approach:
firstly, it introduced innovative knife mechanics that were not further developed in subsequent installments; and secondly,
the final map lacked the same level of quality as the others.
Conversely, it is possible to assert that the Infinity Ward staff executed their initial endeavors satisfactorily.
Zombies in Spaceland offered an original and refreshing perspective on the zombie subgenre, refraining from literal reinvention.
Subsequently, Infinity Ward furnished enthusiasts with an innovative motif that potentially inspires other developers of Call of Duty to replicate.
7) Call of Duty: Black Ops 4
The release of Black Ops 4 polarized the fanbase.
here were two narrative arcs in The Zombies Mode, which generated both admiration and disapproval.
We can assert that the Chaos maps were immensely entertaining, in contrast to the lack of personality and rigidity observed in the Aether maps.
Putting a genuine emphasis on a single mode as opposed to two would have enhanced the Zombies mode;
nevertheless, that would have necessitated the omission of two alternatives.
Black Ops 4 Zombies is not the worst on the list, despite the fact that its developers attempted something novel and achieved considerable success with a considerable number of players.
Given that a higher rating would signify a greater preference and a lower rating would signify discontent, we shall maintain its current value at the median.
Prior to the release of Black Ops 3, my complete lack of interest in zombies was wholly attributable to TranZit.
I wish to emphasize this before anyone strikes out with pitchforks.
While I acknowledge the mode’s following, I personally consider it an unremarkable notion that has failed to fully justify its initial appeal.
Upon my most recent re-engagement with the titles, I discovered Green Run and Nuketown Zombies to be relatively uninspiring in comparison to Treyarch’s customary offerings,
despite the fact that Die Rise does salvage a portion of my interest from obscurity.
While there may be variations in opinion, I hold the view that the Zombies mode in Black Ops 2 was truly unimpressive.
6) Call of Duty: World at War
It is possible that everyone has appreciated the Zombies mode, which originated in World War II.
You were notified by the game that a Nazi Zombies mode had been activated once the campaign was completed.
Notwithstanding preliminary conjecture concerning the characteristics of an undead mode in Call of Duty,
it garnered immediate praise as soon as players initiated an interaction with it.
You acquired additional travel areas and weapons in this game by boarding up windows, unlocking doors, and earning currency.
Particularly, DLC was devoted to map bundles, but since then, the mode has been incorporated into every game due to its immense popularity.
The map Nacht der Untoten, which translates to “Night of the Living Dead” in German, was the most viewed in Nazi Zombies.
For Call of Duty: Black Ops Hardened and Prestige Editions, a remastered version of this map was included.
A remaster incorporating an even greater degree of difficulty would unquestionably attract players.
Regarding the pinnacle of zombies game modes across the totality of Call of Duty, the originator is marginally superior to its newer counterparts.
The topic of World at War is extraordinarily appealing.
Even though Nacht der Untoten is a simple, unremarkable preview of the mode’s untapped potential,
each subsequent installment set a standard that has been adhered to by subsequent games.
The implementation of the Pack-A-Punch Machine in Der Riese effectively resolved nearly all outstanding matters.
No one ought to be overly surprised by the fact that a celebrity was being formed before our very eyes, given the persistently addictive nature of the primary gameplay cycle.
5) Call of Duty: Black Ops
World at War’s inception of the concept that Black Ops utilized to its advantage propelled progress.
The incorporation of Cold War-era political figures and the use of irony to convey the participant into that era were both employing irony.
With its humorous allusion to Nixon’s Watergate Scandal, this was the most accomplished comedy in a significant time period from the series.
The choice of actors for the role was subtly influenced by Jim Meskimen, who portrayed John F. Kennedy.
The level of confinement within the compartments was just right to instill a feeling of safety in the players,
whereas the generous area enabled the undead to quickly drown if not promptly managed.
An extraordinarily delightful experience that is enhanced when shared with companions.
Treyarch’s Zombies, the sequel to the wildly successful Call of Duty: Black Ops, generated considerable anticipation among fandom.
Developers exhibited a clear dominance with the publication of the two maps.
While assuming the characters of Fidelkin and Kennedy at the Pentagon, confronting new adversaries in a theater.
Moreover, Black Ops featured a more fluid gameplay experience than its antecedent, while also incorporating some of the original maps from World at War.
It enhanced the experience by introducing novel advantages, weaponry, and characteristics to explore.
4) Call of Duty: Black Ops 3
Beyond what had come before it, Black Ops 3 represented an improvement.
Merely the maps differentiate this entry from the one that came before it.
BO3’s maps were only more memorable than those of Black Ops 2. The maps of BO3 were inadequate.
Notwithstanding this, the most action-packed installments of BO3 featured some of the most thrilling undead.
With justification, indisputable majority of players would consider the last three installments to be the apogee of the series.
While BO3 managed to appeal to its fan base effectively, the game’s superior maps ultimately prevailed.
Black Ops 3 is, by an extensive margin, my favored installment.
The game created an entirely new species from the entertaining, sophisticated movement elements of Exo Zombies.
They continue to reign supreme in the mode that Treyarch initially introduced to the series.
The complete Shadows of Evil map set remains magnificently underrated as one of the most underrated gaming experiences even after eight years have passed.
The undeniable superiority of this incarnation of Zombies over all others can be attributed to the meticulous and nuanced execution of every map in Black Ops 3.
Without intending to devalue the older titles.
BO3 is simply that darn good; their status as classics is not without justification.
3) Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (MWZ)
While there may be those who contend that our evaluation is premature,
the 2023 MW3 has already garnered acclaim as one of the most remarkable additions to the CoD Zombies collection.
Modern Warfare undead, or MWZ, represents a radical departure from the undead we have grown to know and love over the years.
Individuals with prior experience playing the extraction shooter DMZ in MW2 (2022) will recognize the functioning of this mode.
In lieu of the rounds and substandard maps, Urzikstan has been implemented,
which is a vast metropolis encompassed by strategically positioned zombies and notable landmarks.
Pack-a-Punches, Mystery Boxes, and Wall Guns are certain to be recognizable to zombie enthusiasts.
Nevertheless, the incorporation of contract pursuits and an increasingly challenging journey towards the city center presents a distinctive perspective on the franchise, which is being adored by fans.
2) Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War
Black Ops Cold War, similar to its predecessor, appealed to more recent gamers.
Numerous gamers would contend that the maps prevent it from being as good as our top pick, but Black Ops Cold War features superior visuals and weaponry,
and the developers have packed into it what worked in previous installments.
Adding new maps to the series ultimately benefited the game more than any other zombies mode, albeit after some time.
The Zombie mode in Black Ops: Cold War was improved in Season Two, but it remains a classic.
BoCW influenced Zombies and the current trajectory of the series positively, unless I am erroneously convinced otherwise.
With the exception of the mediocre maps, the gameplay has been substantially enhanced, and the fundamental components of Zombies have been precisely realized.
Building upon the solid groundwork established by Cold War’s precise movement and launching mechanisms,
Crossplay gains a competitive edge over a segment of its rivals operating on the ground.
The game serves as an installment in the Dark Aether saga.
1) Call of Duty: Black Ops 2
It seems improbable that Black Ops 2, the preeminent installment in the CoD Zombies franchise,
will face any opposition to its status as the current leader for the foreseeable future.
It elevated an already successful formula to eleven by incorporating an unprecedented number of visually breathtaking maps and a gameplay cycle that even the most critical Call of Duty aficionados could not resist.
Bo2 introduced several innovative features, such as custom armaments and game variants,
while BO3 merely improved upon what had been accomplished previously.
Notwithstanding this, almost every rhythm it generated was impeccable.
BO2 includes the highest-quality maps we have ever encountered;
they have proven to be indispensable to the success of any undead endeavor.
Due to TranZit, I completely disregarded Zombies prior to its release in conjunction with Black Ops 3.
This is something I wish to reiterate before anyone takes out pitchforks.
While recognizing the ideology’s initial popularity, I consider the mode to be an ordinary concept that did not live up to its potential.
Die Rise redeems a portion of its obscurity for me,
in contrast to the insensitive nature of Nuketown Zombies and Green Run upon my most recent re-entry into the games, as opposed to Treyarch’s customary fare.
From my perspective, the Zombies in Black Ops 2 constitute the most conspicuously deficient element.
