Modern Warfare 4 DMZ Brings Extraction Mode and a Social Base to Call of Duty
Infinity Ward has detailed DMZ in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, with a 70-level progression track, higher stakes and a Forward Operating Base hub for launch on October 23.
Infinity Ward has published a deep dive into DMZ, the extraction mode returning in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. The mode first appeared in 2022's Modern Warfare II. The studio is now bringing it back in a bigger form, with a social hangout space for players between matches.
A hub between matches
The new Forward Operating Base is where players spend time between deployments. Players can hang out there, test weapons at a firing range, equip loadouts and store loot.
According to the PlayStation Blog, the FOB starts as a foothold and grows into a fully operational base with more than a dozen stations as players complete Operations in Hajin. Stations available right away include:
- Operators: manage and pick your Active Duty Operator.
- DMZ Orders: review missions on your Orders Tablet.
- Stash/Loadout: store extracted items and equip gear.
- Firing Range: test weapons against a range of targets.
- Deploy: head out on a mission.
Unlockable stations include a 3D Printer for crafting gear and upgrading stations, and a Gunsmith for buying attachments with DMZ Cash. A rotating-stock Vendor, a Bounty Leaderboard and a Boss Board for tracking Lieutenants are also on the list.
Higher stakes
IGN reports that Infinity Ward co-studio head Jack O'Hara said fans felt the first DMZ lacked stakes. Your time in the mode now centers on an operator you build and level up. If that operator dies, it costs you to bring them back.
Some lootable items can be lost permanently if you die or drop them. Items you keep can be taken to the 3D printer to craft armor plates, consumables and gear. IGN also says the menu seen in gameplay seemingly includes killstreaks or AI-controlled fire support.
The developers call DMZ an "action extraction shooter." Danger is meant to be constant, from AI combatants, bosses and other players. Infinity Ward lists drones, helicopter and vehicle patrols, tanks and tougher enemies.
Threat levels and rewards
Each area of the map has its own threat level. IGN says these can rise based on what the player does. Making noise draws attention, while silenced weapons, melee takedowns and caution can help avoid heavy fights.
There are three deployment options, according to the PlayStation Blog: Story Missions, Dynamic Operations and Free Roam. Completing Dynamic Operations gives the squad a Supply Drop of increasing rarity. Players are also graded on an After Action Report, with S Tier or better earning the best rewards.
Hunting Lieutenants and Commanders is another route to XP, weapons and high-value loot. Vehicles for land, water and air are available, and can be repaired and refueled at the Gas Station.
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What it means for you
If you plan to play DMZ, budget for it, since it is part of the paid Modern Warfare 4 release rather than a free download. Pre-orders are open on PlayStation 5, per the PlayStation Blog, and the game arrives October 23.
Infinity Ward has promised post-launch support, including map changes and dynamic weather that can vary by season. The sources do not give details on those updates yet.
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