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BO3 Zombies Maps Ranked: From Worst to Best Survival Experiences

Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 (BO3) is widely regarded as one of the pinnacle achievements in the franchise’s Zombies mode. With its intricate storylines, challenging gameplay, and diverse maps, it offers countless hours of undead-slaying fun. However, not all maps are created equal. This article aims to provide a definitive ranking of the BO3 Zombies maps, from the least enjoyable to the absolute best, helping you decide where to focus your zombie-killing efforts. We’ll delve into what makes each map unique, considering factors like atmosphere, gameplay mechanics, easter eggs, and overall replayability. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of BO3 Zombies, this ranking will offer valuable insights.

Understanding the Ranking Criteria

Before diving into the list, it’s important to understand the criteria used to rank these maps. Several factors contribute to the overall enjoyment and quality of a BO3 Zombies map:

Atmosphere: The map’s setting, visual design, and sound contribute to its overall immersion and appeal.
Gameplay Mechanics: This includes weapon availability, training spots, the difficulty of navigating the map, and the complexity of the Pack-a-Punch process.
Easter Eggs: The depth and intrigue of the map’s main easter egg quest, as well as smaller side easter eggs, significantly impact replayability.
Replayability: How much fun is the map after repeated playthroughs? Does it offer enough variety and challenge to keep players engaged?
Difficulty: The overall challenge of the map, balanced with the accessibility for both casual and hardcore players.

The Definitive BO3 Zombies Maps Ranking

Honorable Mention: The Giant

While not strictly a BO3 Zombies map, The Giant is a remake of Der Riese from World at War and is often included in discussions due to its availability as a pre-order bonus and DLC. It’s a classic map with simple mechanics and is a great starting point for new players. However, its simplicity also means it lacks the depth and complexity of other maps on this list.

Ranking the Core BO3 Zombies Maps

Now, let’s get into the meat of the ranking, starting with the map generally considered the least favorite:

8. Revelations

Revelations is often placed at the bottom of BO3 Zombies maps rankings, and for good reason. While it attempts to tie together the various storylines and characters from previous maps, it falls short in execution. The map design is a confusing mishmash of iconic locations from previous maps, resulting in a disjointed and uninspired experience. The easter egg is tedious, and the overall gameplay feels less polished than other entries. Despite its narrative importance, Revelations lacks the charm and challenge that makes other BO3 Zombies experiences so compelling. The map’s reliance on repetitive tasks and a convoluted layout makes it a less desirable choice for many players. Many find it to be the weakest link in the otherwise strong chain of BO3 Zombies maps.

7. Zetsubou No Shima

Zetsubou No Shima suffers from a slow start and a tedious setup process. Set on a Pacific island research facility overrun by mutated spiders, the map has a unique aesthetic, but its gameplay is often frustrating. The need to constantly water plants and manage spider spawns becomes repetitive and detracts from the core zombie-slaying experience. While the easter egg is interesting, it requires significant time investment and can be difficult to complete solo. Zetsubou No Shima definitely has its fans, particularly those who enjoy a challenge, but its complexity and slow pace make it less accessible and enjoyable for the average player. The map’s darker color palette and claustrophobic environments contribute to its oppressive atmosphere, which, while effective, can also be draining after extended gameplay. It’s a challenging map, but the enjoyment factor is often overshadowed by its demanding mechanics. The map also features some unique weapons and specialist weapons, but these often aren’t enough to redeem the tedious gameplay loop.

6. Gorod Krovi

Gorod Krovi, set in Stalingrad during World War II, introduces dragons and robotic soldiers to the BO3 Zombies formula. While the map has a cool aesthetic and some interesting mechanics, it suffers from inconsistent difficulty and a frustrating easter egg. The need to ride dragons and complete specific tasks can be challenging, but the map also features some powerful weapons that can make it feel unbalanced at times. Gorod Krovi is a visually impressive map, but its gameplay flaws prevent it from reaching its full potential. The map’s difficulty spikes can be particularly jarring, making it a less consistent experience than other BO3 Zombies maps. However, the introduction of new enemies and traversal methods does add some much-needed variety to the gameplay.

5. Der Eisendrache

Der Eisendrache is a fan-favorite map set in a medieval castle. It’s known for its four elemental bows, which offer unique abilities and add a layer of strategy to the gameplay. The map is relatively easy to navigate and has a balanced difficulty curve, making it accessible to both new and experienced players. The easter egg is engaging and rewarding, and the map’s atmosphere is both eerie and exciting. Der Eisendrache is a solid all-around map that offers a fun and satisfying BO3 Zombies experience. The elemental bows are a standout feature, providing players with powerful tools to combat the undead. The map also features a well-designed layout that encourages exploration and strategic gameplay. Its popularity is well-deserved, making it a staple in many players’ BO3 Zombies rotations.

4. Shadows of Evil

Shadows of Evil is a complex and challenging map set in a 1940s film noir setting. It features a unique cast of characters and a deep, intricate easter egg that requires significant teamwork and communication. The map’s atmosphere is dark and mysterious, and its gameplay is both rewarding and punishing. Shadows of Evil is not for the faint of heart, but those who are willing to put in the effort will find a truly unforgettable BO3 Zombies experience. The map’s complexity can be daunting for new players, but its depth and replayability are undeniable. The use of the Apothicon Servant and other unique weapons adds to the map’s overall appeal. Shadows of Evil is a testament to the creativity and ambition of the BO3 Zombies development team.

3. Kino Der Toten (BO3 Version)

While originally from Black Ops 1, Kino Der Toten’s inclusion in Black Ops 3 via the Zombies Chronicles DLC elevated it further. Its simple yet effective design makes it a timeless classic. The tight corridors and iconic stage offer intense, close-quarters combat, perfect for honing your zombie-slaying skills. The map’s accessibility makes it a great starting point for new players, while its challenging gameplay keeps veterans coming back for more. Kino Der Toten is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic BO3 Zombies maps. The map’s straightforward layout and lack of complex mechanics make it easy to pick up and play, but its challenging gameplay ensures that players of all skill levels will find something to enjoy. The map’s popularity is a testament to its timeless design and enduring appeal. [See also: Best Zombie Games of All Time]

2. Ascension (BO3 Version)

Another classic map revitalized in BO3, Ascension brings back the beloved lunar setting with its fast-paced gameplay and unique challenges. The introduction of the Gersch Devices and the Thundergun makes for exhilarating zombie-slaying action. Its relatively simple layout and manageable difficulty make it a great choice for both solo and co-op play. The map’s atmosphere is both eerie and exciting, and its gameplay is consistently engaging. Ascension is a must-play for any BO3 Zombies fan. The map’s strategic use of ziplines and lunar landers adds a layer of verticality to the gameplay, making it a more dynamic and engaging experience. The map’s popularity is a testament to its well-designed layout and challenging gameplay. The map’s inclusion in the Zombies Chronicles DLC solidified its place as one of the best BO3 Zombies maps.

1. Moon (BO3 Version)

Moon, originally from Black Ops 1, reaches its full potential in Black Ops 3 with improved graphics and gameplay mechanics. Its unique setting on the moon, combined with its challenging gameplay and intricate easter egg, makes it the ultimate BO3 Zombies experience. The need to manage oxygen levels and navigate zero-gravity environments adds a layer of complexity to the gameplay, while the map’s deep storyline and memorable characters make it a truly unforgettable experience. Moon is a challenging map, but its rewards are well worth the effort. The map’s easter egg is one of the most complex and rewarding in the BO3 Zombies series. The map’s unique gameplay mechanics and challenging difficulty make it a favorite among hardcore BO3 Zombies players. The map’s inclusion in the Zombies Chronicles DLC further cemented its status as the best BO3 Zombies map. The map’s atmosphere is both eerie and awe-inspiring, and its gameplay is consistently engaging. The map offers a unique and challenging experience that sets it apart from other BO3 Zombies maps. Its strategic depth and rewarding easter egg make it a top choice for players seeking a truly immersive and engaging zombie-slaying experience. The map’s replayability is incredibly high, making it the best of the BO3 Zombies maps.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best BO3 Zombies map is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, this ranking provides a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of each map, helping you make an informed decision about where to spend your time. Whether you prefer the challenging complexity of Shadows of Evil or the classic simplicity of Kino Der Toten, there’s a BO3 Zombies map out there for everyone. So grab your friends, load up your weapons, and get ready to face the undead!