The first of four planned map packs for Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, has arrived for the PC and PlayStation 3. The collection known as Revolution was originally released for the Xbox 360, and offers four new maps for multiplayer and one new map and game mode for the popular zombie mode. As if this wasn’t enough, the developers have released for the first time a brand-new weapon designed exclusively for multiplayer. The Peacekeeper is a very effective and stylish hybrid mixing the rapidfire of the submachine gun with the stopping power of an assault rifle.
The first collection can be obtained for $14.99 or players may purchase a season pass which allows them to get all for the planned packs for $49.99.
Each of the new maps has its share of challenges that gamers must adapt to and overcome. While I am a fan of the series as well as 3-D shooters, I often admit to a little bit of frustration while learning a new map. For me, it’s never fun to be dominated during your early efforts but thankfully the skilled designers have crafted some very impressive looking maps that will have even the most novice gamer moving up the leader board in no time. By my third time through I was able to start moving up the leaderboard and even topped it a couple of times during my early review sessions on the PC.
The first map is entitled Hydro and it is set in a hydroelectric facility in Pakistan. Players must battle it out for survival through various game modes all the while being mindful of the flowing water which can carry unsuspecting players off to oblivion. There is real” combat the takes place in this map and ample areas for snipers to set up and pick off anybody who comes in their sites.
Up next is Grind, which is one of the more clever and innovative maps in recent memory. The map is set in the skateboard park and teams must battle through generous amounts of uneven surfaces such as ramps, pipes, and jumps. There’s also a Pro shop for indoor combat which operates on multiple levels and uses ramps instead of stairs in much the locale. Obtaining the high ground is definitely recommended this one as the action is often ferocious especially in modes such as domination. The unique design of the park offers plenty of places for cover as well as unique terrain to navigate.
Downhill is set in a French ski resort and brings the action to a snowy battlefield complete with ski gondolas, runaway skis, and plenty of places to hide. I have to admit that I found this one to be the most challenging of all the maps in this collection. Incredible level of detail as a great duality and beautiful but deadly as there are so many chokepoints word unsuspecting player can find themselves staring down several enemy players gun barrels with nowhere to run.
Mirage is set in the Gobi desert and pits teams amidst a lecturer resort setting. The catch is that this resort has been largely covered by a sandstorm, which allows players to access high points via scaling a dune. There are also plenty of vehicles on hand in which to hide and pounce when the opportunity arises. They are working this map is very impressive that she go from the beautiful interiors of the resort to the desert landscape that has reclaimed much of the exterior of facility. The main entryway is always a hotly contested area, and dodging a halo grenades is often a requirement for those seeking to traverse the section of the map.
Zombie lovers wlll enjoy Der Rise: Far East which challenges teams of players to survive waves of zombies atop a series of high-rise buildings. Players can collect devices throughout the levels which they will later be able to combine to create new ways to fight the never-ending swarms the undead. Say it is a challenge would be an understatement as I’ve seen battle hardened teams reduced to nothing inside of six rounds.
The new game mode Turned allows players to play as a zombie for the first time and upon defeating the lone human in the map, players or respondents said human and then have to survive alone against an ending hordes of zombies.
Players can opt to play in Team Death Match mode, or to take place in either Domination, Mosh Pit or Hard-Core Mosh Pit which allows them to go through the maps in various gaming styles from Team Death Match, Kill Confirmed, Demolition, or Hard Point.
Maps are challenging, entertaining, and gorgeous to look at and should keep fans entertained and challenged until the release the next expansion and beyond.
4.5 stars out of 5
