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When it comes to first-person shooters,Call of Dutyis often the gold standard, known for its fast-paced gameplay, extensive weapon selection, deep customization, and signature features. Over time, the franchise has expanded beyond its traditional multiplayer modes, introducing large-scale experiences like battle royale and DMZ through its free-to-play title,Warzone.
TheDMZ game mode, introduced alongside the launch ofModern Warfare 2(2022), offers a unique take onCall of Dutygameplay, shifting the focus toward tactical, team-based combat rather than the usual high-speed action. If you want to dive into this extraction-style mode, here’s everything you need to know about DMZ, including how to play, its key mechanics, and what sets it apart from otherCoDmodes.
What Is DMZ In Call Of Duty: Warzone?
DMZ isCall of Duty’s take on anextraction-based shooter, delivering a free-to-play open-world experience across multipleWarzonemaps. Players must navigate these environments whilebattling real-life opponents and AI-controlled enemies,gathering valuable equipment,andcompleting various objectives— all with the ultimate goal of successfully extracting from the area.
How To Play DMZ In Call Of Duty: Warzone (2025)
To play DMZ inCall of Duty: Warzonein 2025, you’ll need to install the content packs fromModern Warfare 2 (2022), including the Warzone version of the game. Follow these steps to download it:
This process will also download the necessaryMW2shared content packs alongside theWarzoneversion ofMW2, ensuring smooth access to DMZ. Keep in mind that the total storage requirement is around60GB, though this may vary depending on your platform.
Is Warzone’s DMZ Updated With New Content?
In December 2023,Call of Dutyannounced thatDMZ would no longer receive major content updatesas it had during theMW2lifecycle, stating that development teams would instead focus on evolving open-world experiences in future projects.
Despite this, DMZ still offers a fully playable and complete experience,retaining all previously released content, including multiple maps, quality-of-life improvements, new equipment, and in-game challenges.
All Content Available In Call Of Duty: Warzone DMZ
DMZ mode inWarzoneoffers a diverse range of pre-match and in-game content, giving players the flexibility to customize their loadouts and strategies before deploying into the exclusion zone.
DMZ Pre-Match Deployment
Before entering a match, players must choose theirActive Duty Operator, who will carry all selected gear onto the battlefield. This includes:
DMZ Maps & Gameplay Objectives
DMZ featuresfour unique maps, each varying in size, difficulty, and environment:
Each map includes faction-based objectives andhigh-riskstongholds, which serve as fortified AI-controlled enemy zones that reward players with top-tier loot upon completion. Additionally, exclusivecosmetic rewardscan be unlocked and used across other game modes.
Will DMZ Return As A Mode In Future Call Of Duty Titles?
According to reliable leakerTheGhostOfHope, DMZ mode couldpotentially return toCall of Dutyin 2026alongside Infinity Ward’s next installment in the franchise. Similar to its original version, the extraction-based mode may once again be developed by the team behind theModern Warfaresaga.
Reports indicate that DMZ would function as a third core mode in theCoD2026 title, much like Zombies in Treyarch’s games or its inclusion inMW3. However, several key changes are rumored, including a dedicated map and a “forked version” ofWarzone’s engine designed specifically for the mode. Unlike its previous iteration, which shared a map with Battle Royale, this version would reportedly share a set map roster with Ground War mode.
Regarding gameplay, developers are allegedly considering whether to focus on a pure PvE experience, a PvPvE hybrid, or offer both options. In its original version,DMZ blended AI enemies with real players, creating dynamic encounters and continuous action.
It’s important to note that thesedetails remain unconfirmed by Call of Duty or Infinity Ward. If official announcements or updates emerge, we will continue to provide the latest information on DMZ’s potential return to the franchise.
