Activision Reveals Reason for Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3's Large File Size

Activision addresses concerns over the massive file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and offers solutions for managing storage space.

Activision has addressed the concerns of the gaming community regarding the massive file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 ahead of its full launch. The reason behind the immense file size is attributed to the increased amount of content available on launch day, which includes open-world Zombies, item carry-forward from Modern Warfare 2, and map files for Warzone. In order to reduce the total file size, players have the option to manage their Call of Duty files by uninstalling specific content, such as Warzone, if they only want to play certain modes like multiplayer and the campaign. Despite efforts to optimize game files, the combined file size of Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone is still significant, likely ranging from 100 to 200 GB. Therefore, players are advised to ensure they have enough storage space and consider getting a dedicated SSD.

Activision has provided an explanation for the massive file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, citing the "increased amount of content" available on launch day. The file size of the game exceeds 200 GB on consoles and PC due to various content install packs, including Warzone files.

The early access to the Modern Warfare 3 campaign began on November 2, just eight days before the game's full release. Players who have digitally pre-ordered the game have the opportunity to get a head start by completing the campaign and earning rewards for the multiplayer component. However, some players encountered issues during the campaign early access, particularly with strange "disc required" errors. PlayStation gamers were prompted to insert a PS4 copy of Modern Warfare 2 in order to proceed into Modern Warfare 3. The developers of Call of Duty have acknowledged this issue and are actively investigating it. Additionally, some players have expressed dissatisfaction with the massive file size of Call of Duty this year, as it takes up a significant portion of a PS5 or Xbox Series X|S console's internal storage.

Activision's official Call of Duty Twitter account has addressed the file size of Modern Warfare 3 with an update for fans. The company acknowledges that the game's file size is larger than that of Modern Warfare 2 and explains that the increase is due to the content that is supported on launch day. This content includes the open-world Zombies mode, support for Call of Duty's new Carry-Forward system, and map files for Warzone. The developers are currently working on optimizing game files for Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone, so the final installation file size will be smaller compared to combined Call of Duty titles like 2022's Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone.

Activision emphasizes that players have the ability to manage their Call of Duty files in the HQ launcher menu to reduce the total file size on their consoles and PCs. For example, players who only wish to play Modern Warfare 3's multiplayer modes and the campaign can uninstall Warzone and specific files. More details about the full launch of Modern Warfare 3 will be revealed in the coming days through new social media posts and Call of Duty blog posts.

While the file size of Modern Warfare 3 may pose a challenge for console players, Activision's latest update provides some hope ahead of the game's full launch next week. However, it is likely that the total combined file size will still be in the range of 100 to 200 GB, so players planning to play Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone must ensure they have sufficient storage space. As a result, those who want a dedicated game drive for the latest Call of Duty title may want to consider purchasing an SSD.

In addition to the large file size, players may also encounter issues related to game sharing in Modern Warfare 3. Fortunately, Sledgehammer Games, the developer of the game, is expected to release new updates in the coming days and weeks to address these issues that arose during the campaign early access period and the game's full launch.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023) is set to be released on November 10, 2023. It continues the story of Captain Price from the 2019 and 2022 games. The franchise is available on various platforms including PC, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PS4, and Xbox One. The game is developed by Sledgehammer Games and published by Activision. It falls under the genre of first-person shooter.