Top 5 Call of Duty Zombies Maps

Explore the most exhilarating and memorable Call of Duty Zombies maps that have left an indelible mark on the gaming world. From intricate design to immersive storylines, these five maps deliver the ultimate gaming experience.

1. Der Riese - The Classic Zombies Experience

Introduction to Der Riese

Der Riese, also known as "The Giant," is a fan-favorite map that first appeared in Call of Duty: World at War. Set in a secret Nazi research facility, this map introduced crucial gameplay mechanics, such as Pack-a-Punch and teleporters, which became staples in later Zombies maps.

Key features of the map

• Teleporters: Der Riese brought the concept of teleportation to the Zombies universe, allowing players to move around the map quickly and escape from hordes of undead.
• Pack-a-Punch: This map debuted the Pack-a-Punch machine, a vital tool that enables players to upgrade their weapons, increasing their firepower and enhancing special abilities.
• Easter eggs: Der Riese set the stage for the series' now-iconic Easter eggs, with hidden songs, intricate storylines, and challenging quests for players to uncover.

Why it's considered a classic

Der Riese is considered a classic for its introduction of essential gameplay mechanics, its challenging layout, and the sense of nostalgia it evokes in long-time Call of Duty Zombies fans. The map laid the foundation for future maps and has remained a popular choice among players.

2. Kino der Toten - A Haunting Cinematic Adventure

Introduction to Kino der Toten

Kino der Toten, translated as "Theater of the Dead," first appeared in Call of Duty: Black Ops. The eerie, abandoned theater setting and the introduction of new weapons, enemies, and gameplay features make this map an unforgettable experience.

Unique aspects of the map

• Setting: The decaying theater setting creates a haunting atmosphere, with its flickering lights, crumbling walls, and creepy soundtrack.
• Thundergun: Kino der Toten introduced the Thundergun, a powerful weapon that unleashes a massive shockwave, blasting away hordes of zombies in its path.
• Crawler Zombies: This map was the first to feature the Crawler Zombies, a new type of enemy that crawls on the ground and releases a cloud of toxic gas upon death.

Its impact on the Zombies storyline

Kino der Toten was the starting point for the overarching Zombies storyline, as it introduced players to the characters of Tank Dempsey, Nikolai Belinski, Takeo Masaki, and Edward Richtofen. The map also marked the beginning of the time-traveling aspect of the Zombies storyline, as players discovered clues about the origins of the Zombies and the mysterious Group 935.

3. Mob of the Dead - A Gritty, Atmospheric Masterpiece

Introduction to Mob of the Dead

Mob of the Dead, featured in Call of Duty: Black Ops II, transports players to the infamous Alcatraz prison during the Prohibition Era. With a gritty, atmospheric setting and an all-star voice cast, this map offers a unique and immersive experience that stands out among other Zombies maps.

How it differs from other Zombies maps

• Afterlife Mode: Mob of the Dead introduced the innovative Afterlife Mode, allowing players to enter a ghostly form upon death. In this form, players can access hidden areas, revive themselves, and interact with the environment in ways not possible while alive.
• Original Characters: This map deviates from the standard Zombies characters, featuring a new cast of mobsters voiced by famous actors, including Ray Liotta, Chazz Palminteri, Joe Pantoliano, and Michael Madsen. Their unique personalities and backstories add depth to the gameplay experience.
• Complex Easter Egg: Mob of the Dead contains one of the most intricate Easter eggs in the Zombies series, which requires players to piece together the mobsters' tragic tale and ultimately help them escape the island.

Memorable gameplay elements

• Brutus: A formidable boss zombie is known as Brutus roams the prison, armed with a heavy club and the ability to lock down Perk machines and Mystery Boxes.
• Golden Gate Bridge: Players can build a makeshift plane and escape to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, where they face waves of zombies and eventually return to the island via electric chairs.

4. Origins - A Mythological Journey Through Time

Introduction to Origins

Origins, featured in Call of Duty: Black Ops II, takes players back to World War I, where they encounter younger versions of Tank, Nikolai, Takeo, and Richtofen. This massive map, filled with secrets and new gameplay elements, marked a turning point in the Zombies series and became an instant fan favorite.

Innovative gameplay features

• Elemental Staffs: Players can craft four powerful Elemental Staffs, each harnessing the power of fire, ice, lightning, or wind. These unique weapons not only aid players in their battle against zombies but also play a crucial role in solving the map's complex Easter egg.
• Giant Robots: Massive, lumbering robots traverse the battlefield, posing a significant threat to players. To survive, players must avoid the robots' massive feet and utilize their internal systems to uncover secrets.
• Mud and Trenches: Origins introduced a dynamic environment, with mud slowing down player movement and trenches adding strategic depth to the map layout.

The Significance of the Map to the Zombies Narrative

Origins delved deep into the Zombies storyline, revealing the origins of the heroes and Group 935 while setting the stage for the epic conclusion in Call of Duty: Black Ops III. The map also introduced the powerful ancient beings known as the Keepers and Apothicons, which would play a significant role in the unfolding narrative.

5. Shadows of Evil - A Dark, Noir-Inspired Odyssey

Introduction to Shadows of Evil

Shadows of Evil, the first map in Call of Duty: Black Ops III, plunges players into a dark, noir-inspired world set in the fictional city of Morg City. Featuring a new cast of characters, an intricate story, and a plethora of unique gameplay mechanics, Shadows of Evil delivers a rich and engrossing experience.

Its distinctive style and atmosphere

• Noir Setting: Shadows of Evil's noir-inspired setting, complete with dimly lit streets, classic cars, and a moody jazz soundtrack, creates a captivating atmosphere that sets it apart from other Zombies maps.
• New Characters: Players control a new cast of characters, including a magician, a boxer, a cop, and a femme fatale, each with their unique backstories and connections to Morg City.

How it contributes to the overall Zombies experience

• Beast Mode: Shadows of Evil introduces Beast Mode, allowing players to transform into monstrous creatures capable of opening hidden pathways, activating power sources, and decimating hordes of zombies.
• Rituals and Easter Egg: Players must complete a series of rituals to unlock the Pack-a-Punch machine and solve an elaborate Easter egg that ties into the greater Zombies storyline.
• Margwas and Parasites: This map introduces terrifying new enemies, such as the three-headed Margwas and the flying Parasites, adding to the challenge and variety of gameplay.

From classic maps like Der Riese to innovative masterpieces like Shadows of Evil, the Call of Duty Zombies series has consistently delivered unforgettable gaming experiences. These top 5 maps showcase the creativity, depth, and excitement that make the Zombies mode such a fan favorite. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer to the series, be sure to delve into these iconic maps and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of Call of Duty Zombies.