Activision is making Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 free to play this weekend

During this period, players can engage in various maps and game modes, including 6v6 Core Maps like Terminal, Rust, Highrise, Shipment, Afghan, and Meat. Ground War Maps such as Popov Power, Orlov Military Base, and Levin Resort will also be available. Core Modes such as Team Deathmatch, Hardpoint, Domination, Kill Confirmed, and Ground War will be accessible. Additionally, specific Playlists like Rustment 24/7 (Shipment and Rust), War Mode, and 6v6 Moshpit will be featured, offering a comprehensive taste of the game's diverse multiplayer environment.

Modern Warfare 3's free access period comes at an opportune time as the game finds itself bombarded by criticism and jokes. It doesn't help that it's on track to earn the dubious distinction of being one of the few Call of Duty entries not to top the sales charts the year that it launched.

With Hogwarts Legacy's historic launch propelling it to become the best-selling game of the year, MW3's reputation is in desperate need of a boost, which is where the trial period comes in. It can attract new players and showcase the game's strengths.

Modern Warfare III's multiplayer component features complete recreations of maps from the 2009 Modern Warfare 2, along with the addition of the new zombies mode. The focus is on six maps: Terminal, Highrise, Rust, Shipment, Meat, and Afghan, offering various play modes like Team Deathmatch, Hardpoint, Kill Confirmed, and Domination. The new map, Meat, is set in a compact slaughterhouse, providing environments for close quarters engagement.

The free trial isn't limited. Ground War and Zombies modes will also be accessible, providing a well-rounded taste of MW3's offerings. With this, Activision hopes to attract new players and possibly influence purchase decisions.

Aside from its sales, or relative lack thereof, MW3's release marks a pivotal moment - it's the first entry published under the Microsoft Gaming banner after the company's acquisition of Activision Blizzard King. The game's launch, despite the challenges, remains a significant achievement, demonstrating the developers' capability to deliver a successful title in spite of a constrained timeline.

MW3's commercial success, despite likely being significantly lower than its record-setting predecessor, continues to prove the franchise's enduring popularity. The decision to offer a free trial reflects Activision's confidence in the game's multiplayer appeal and serves as a strategic approach to maintaining the game's relevance and popularity in a highly competitive market.

For players yet to experience MW3, this free trial weekend provides an opportune moment to dive into the game's rich multiplayer environment. The variety in maps, modes, and playlists offers something for every kind of player, whether they prefer fast-paced action or strategic team play.

With a mix of classic and new content, the free trial period offers a thrilling experience for casual and returning players.