The Explanation Behind Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's Enormous File Size
Activision responds to community concerns about the colossal file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, providing a justification ahead of the game's official release
Article Key Points
The reason behind the substantial file size of Modern Warfare 3 is the extensive range of content that is accessible on the game's release day. This includes open-world Zombies, the ability to carry forward items from Modern Warfare 2, and the inclusion of map files for Warzone.
To reduce the overall file size, players have the option to uninstall specific content, like Warzone, if they solely wish to play multiplayer and the campaign in Call of Duty. However, despite attempts to optimize game files, the combined size of Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone is still substantial, likely ranging between 100 to 200 GB. Therefore, players should ensure they possess adequate storage space and contemplate acquiring a dedicated SSD.
Activision has explained the large file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 by attributing it to the "increased amount of content" available at launch. The game's file size exceeds 200 GB on consoles and PC due to a range of content install packs, including Warzone files.
The early access to the Modern Warfare 3 campaign began on November 2, just eight days prior to the game's full release. Those who have digitally pre-ordered the game can gain an advantage by completing the campaign early and earning rewards for the multiplayer component, such as calling cards and double XP tokens. Unfortunately, the campaign early access launch faced issues for some players, with peculiar "disc required" errors. These errors prompted PlayStation gamers to insert a copy of Modern Warfare 2 on their PS4 to proceed into Modern Warfare 3. The Call of Duty developers swiftly addressed the problem and confirmed that they are investigating the issue. Additionally, some players are expressing discontent with the massive file size of Call of Duty this year, as it occupies a significant portion of a PS5 or Xbox Series X|S console's internal storage.
Activision's official Call of Duty Twitter account has provided an update for fans regarding the file size of Modern Warfare 3. Acknowledging that it is larger than Modern Warfare 2, Activision explains that this increase is due to the inclusion of various content on launch day. This content includes the open-world Zombies mode, support for the new Carry-Forward system in Call of Duty, and map files for Warzone. The developers are actively working on optimizing the game files for both Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone, ensuring that the final installation file size will be smaller than the combined size of previous Call of Duty titles, such as 2022's Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone.
In order to accommodate players who wish to reduce the total file size on their consoles and PCs, Activision emphasizes that players can manage their Call of Duty files in the HQ launcher menu. For example, if players are only interested in playing Modern Warfare 3's multiplayer modes and campaign, they have the option to uninstall Warzone and specific files accordingly. More information about the full launch of Modern Warfare 3 will be shared in the upcoming days through new social media and blog posts from Call of Duty.
Console players of Modern Warfare 3 may face challenges due to the game's file size. However, a recent update from Activision provides some optimism before the official release next week. Nonetheless, it is anticipated that the combined file size will still range between 100 to 200 GB, making it crucial for players planning to engage in both Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone to have sufficient storage space. Consequently, individuals seeking a dedicated game drive for the newest Call of Duty installment may wish to consider purchasing a SSD.
Sizeable file storage is not the sole concern for players, as some users have reported issues related to game sharing in Modern Warfare 3. Fortunately, Sledgehammer Games is expected to release future updates in the coming days and weeks, which will address problems experienced during the campaign early access period and the game's official launch.
Scheduled for release on November 10, 2023, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023) by Activision follows the ongoing saga of Captain Price, carrying on from the events of the games in 2019 and 2022.
The Call of Duty franchise includes Call of Duty and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. It is available on multiple platforms including PC, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PS4, and Xbox One. The game was released on November 10, 2023, and was developed by Sledgehammer Games and published by Activision. It falls under the genre of first-person shooter.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am both excited and concerned about the enormous file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. On the one hand, I am thrilled about the prospect of having access to a wide range of content on launch day, including open-world Zombies, the ability to carry forward items from Modern Warfare 2, and the inclusion of map files for Warzone. On the other hand, I am worried about the impact that this large file size will have on my console's storage space and performance.
I understand that the developers are working hard to optimize the game files and reduce the overall file size, but I am still concerned that it will be too large for my console to handle. I am also concerned about the potential impact that the large file size will have on the game's performance. I hope that the developers will be able to address these concerns before the game's release.
