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Infinity Ward Expands DMZ with Persistent Base and New Progression Systems

2 min read
Source: Eurogamer.net
Infinity Ward Expands DMZ with Persistent Base and New Progression Systems
Photo: Eurogamer.net
TL;DR

Infinity Ward has detailed the return of the DMZ extraction mode in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, launching October 23. The update introduces a persistent Forward Operating Base (FOB) for social interaction and loadout management, a dedicated 70-level progression track, and expanded enemy AI tiers. The mode focuses on combat over looting, featuring a new map called Hajin with dynamic operations and boss hunts.

Key points

  • DMZ returns in Modern Warfare 4 on October 23 for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch 2.
  • A new Forward Operating Base (FOB) serves as a social hub and command center, allowing players to manage operators, stash loot, and test weapons.
  • The mode features a separate 70-level progression track, distinct from multiplayer and Warzone, though weapon progression is shared.
  • The map, Hajin, includes four tiers of AI enemies, including 'Commanders' protected by escorts, and dynamic operations that reward supply drops.
  • Infinity Ward emphasizes 'action extraction,' prioritizing combat engagement over menu navigation, with a UI designed for speed.

Background

DMZ was previously introduced as a beta mode in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 in 2022. The 2026 iteration aims to address previous criticisms regarding storage capacity and progression depth by introducing a persistent base and a dedicated leveling system.

How outlets are covering it

Eurogamer highlights Infinity Ward's focus on 'action extraction,' noting the UI is designed for speed and that the mode has its own economy and progression. GameSpot emphasizes the new FOB as a solution to the 2022 beta's lack of storage, comparing it to the social hub in Call of Duty: WWII. Activision's official blog details the specific stations within the FOB, such as the Gunsmith and 3D Printer, and outlines the three deployment options: Story Missions, Dynamic Operations, and Free Roam. All sources agree on the October 23 launch date and the inclusion of the mode in the main game rather than as a free-to-play service like Warzone.

Why it matters

The expansion of DMZ signals a shift in the Call of Duty franchise toward persistent, open-world elements. By integrating a social hub and deep progression systems, Infinity Ward aims to increase player retention and engagement between matches, potentially influencing the design of future extraction shooters in the genre.

What to watch

Infinity Ward plans to release additional blog posts and developer diaries throughout the week leading up to the October 23 launch. Players can pre-order Modern Warfare 4 now, and the DMZ mode will be available at launch across all supported platforms.

Topics:technologygaming#call-of-duty#dmz#extraction-shooter#gaming#infinity-ward#modern-warfare-4
Share this article
  1. "This is Call of Duty's definitive extraction shooter experience" - Infinity Ward details the new DMZ mode in Modern Warfare 4  Eurogamer.net
  2. DMZ Deep Dive, Part 1: Tour of Duty – Hajin Environments and Threats, Full Intel Guide  Call of Duty® | Best-Selling Video Game Franchise
  3. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4's Ambitious Extraction Mode, DMZ, Gets Major Deep Dive  ign.com
  4. Modern Warfare 4’s DMZ Mode Adds A Social Hangout With Plenty Of Perks  GameSpot
  5. Everything you need to know about DMZ mode in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4  PlayStation.Blog

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