MW3 Zombies mode has quickly become popular among COD fans. At the start, however, it can feel overwhelming. Truth be told, when played right, it is a great way to gain some XP and level up quickly. For that, you need to know how to play it right.

In the post below, I will cover the best COD MW3 Zombies tips so that you can exploit this mode.

1. Kitting zombies is a good strategy

While in the low-threat zones, the number of zombies is limited, but as you move towards the other zones, the numbers increase. For a beginner, this might feel overwhelming. The best strategy to handle zombies is to kite them.

But what do I exactly mean by kitting?

It's the practice of making an enemy follow you (zombies, in this case) while just remaining outside their range. In the zombies mode, this can be done by moving briskly while at the same time ensuring that you are moving in a direction that has an opening.

Remember, if you are stuck in a corner in Zombies mode, there is little you can do. Similarly when you encounter mercenaries, kite them because if they get too close, they can cause a lot of damage with their powerful guns.

So, before playing the Zombies mode, make kitting your default strategy.

2. Have a plan in advance

Once you get the hang of the Zombies mode, it can be addicting, especially with all the missions and upgrades it can help you gain. However, it isn't similar to GTA, where you roam around game after game. Instead, have a goal and a plan in advance. Some worthy goals can be to:

  • Get a perk

  • Get a blueprint

  • Get weapon stash

  • Once you attain that goal, think about exfiling because if you get killed, the arsenal you have so painstakingly gathered will go away.

    3. Can't survive without teamwork

    MW3 Zombies is best suited for team play. Even when playing with strangers, formulating a strategy and sticking to it is a good idea. Some ways to take advantage of teamplay include:

  • Always explore different places with your team. You can check every nook and cranny; if you encounter anything, you have the upper hand.

  • In case you wander off, always communicate your surroundings with your team so that they can come for help if anything goes wrong. You never know when you might come across a boss.

  • Lastly, your team members can resurrect you.

  • 4. Keep moving

    It might sound tempting to take cover and stick around a particular spot when playing this mode. However, more often than not, that's going to sound the death knell for you and your team members.

    A better approach is to keep moving. Sure enough, explore a particular area and gather the loot, but after that, it's best to move ahead. A vehicle can come in handy for faster mobility. Not only that, but it also helps you slay any zombies along the way.

    Moving around also means you can accept more contracts which makes gaining more XP possible.

    5. Utilize field upgrades

    MW3 offers 6 field upgrades in total. These are more powerful than usual weapons. A prime example is the Energy mine, which can damage all enemies in a certain radius. Similarly, a frost blast will damage all enemies nearby and also slow down enemies within proximity.

    Slaying zombies helps you level up, providing these field upgrades. For example, the Energy mine unlocks at level one. Don't shy away from using these field upgrades to wreak havoc or simply make way for yourself.

    There are a few things to keep in mind when using field upgrades:

  • You can equip only 1 field upgrade at a time.

  • Secondly, field upgrades do have a cooldown timer.


  • 6. Go with a gun that has a big mag

    Zombies mode revolves around killing as many enemies as possible. So, always equip yourself with a gun with a big magazine.

    For this, you can go with an LMG or an assault rifle whose mag you have expanded.

    www Either way, the aim is to get as many kills as possible in a single mag. That helps you gain more XP and level up faster. Alternatively, leveling up your weapon also helps you cause more damage.

    Read more in our: These Are The Best MW3 Guns Listed & Ranked (Tier List)

    7. Melee weapons to the rescue

    Melee weapons are used in close-quarter combat. Examples of melee weapons include:

  • Knives

  • Riot shield

  • Swords

  • A few advantages of such weapons include:

  • Being equipped with a knife or a sword helps you move faster.

  • Combining them with Ammo mods and Aether tools makes them even more powerful.

  • When you switch to the third-person view (covered below), using such weapons becomes even easier.

  • Therefore, instead of ignoring these weapons, it's best to use them.

    8. Grab the Blood Burner Motorcycle

    mwz blood burner motorcycle
    This is more of a secret rather than a tip. In every match, one Blood Burner Motorcycle is waiting to be discovered. The advantage of this bike is that it kills zombies it collides with (easy XP!), is indestructible, doesn't suffer any damage, can run on water, and doesn't need refueling.

    But how to find it?

    That's a bit tricky since it spawns in different locations in every match. A few tips to find it are:

  • Explore the mid-level threat area as much as you can. The bike likely spawns in this zone.

  • Once you get within a 300-meter radius of the bike, the map will show a purple bike icon. Head to the icon and ride the bike as soon as possible.

  • Once you get on the bike, you gain an upper hand over any of your opponents. You can even place a sentry gun on this bike when it’s stationary helping you farm some easy XP.

    9. Watch out for other players

    Heading to a stronghold to get the loot?

    Try to grab the loot as soon as possible. Even though the zombies mode is primarily PvE, other players/teams can get to strongholds to get that loot. Therefore, don't take it for granted. After all, you are taking a great risk when moving toward the strongholds. You don't want to take that risk in vain. My point being try to grab the loot as soon as possible.

    10. Always equip with decoy grenades

    mw3 decoy grenade
    In the tactical loadout slot, you can always equip decoy grenades (up to 3). Instead of equipping with any other grenade, use the decoy one because of how they work. The advantage of these grenades is that they attract zombies to them once you throw them, and this includes the special zombies, making it easier to kill them.

    Also, ammo refills help you replenish them. These certainly come in handy in the high threat zone, as those have a lot more zombies. While some other tactical grenades work great as well, the ability of the decoys to attract zombies makes them superior.

    11. Stick to the outskirts

    MW3 Zombies is played on the Urzikstan map. Since the game mode is different, you don't necessarily face new rounds with heightened difficulty. Instead, this game mode has different threat levels visible on the map.

    Spawning occurs in the low threat zone on the outer fringes of the map. When you head inwards, you reach the medium threat level with the map's core marked as the high threat zone. Besides the map, there is a threat level indicator in the HUD.

    The core of the map consists of Zombies and other powerful enemies. Instead of directly rushing to the core, it's best to spend some time on the fringes, get the required gear, and brush up your skills. Once you have the right gear, it is time to explore the interiors.

    12. Contracts do help

    Zombies mode is a great way to level up your guns. However, you need XP points to upgrade your guns. This is where contracts come into the picture. These are scattered all over the map and have different objectives. Some require you to defend an area; others require delivery, whereas some are bounty contracts.

    As explained in the above tip, stick to the low threat zone and pick up contracts in this zone first. Completing every contract awards you 2000 points and a reward. Use these to bulk up your weapons. Upgraded weapons certainly help you survive in the Zombies mode.

    Once you level up the weapons, it’s wise to move to higher threat zones to get better loot and farm more XP.

    13. Get as much loot as you can

    Entire Zombies mode is a loot-based gaming mode. Before heading to a stronghold, know the strategies you can use. I will share 2 different strategies for this.

    Strategy 1:

    Once you spawn, check the map for Zombie strongholds or contracts in the medium threat zone. If you don't have the gear to survive in that zone, complete a couple of contracts to get those 4k points and other 1k points slaying zombies. Stick to Zombie related contracts. After finishing the contract, you will get a reward. So try to complete as many contracts as you can.

    Strategy 2:

    Ensure you have decoy grenades and stamina up (to move faster). On spawning, head to the antenna (old town area) in the high threat zone. Zombies can't climb up on the antenna. After heading to the antenna, search for the cargo mission on the map.

    Parachute to that area. In the absence of a cargo mission, search for an escort mission, accept it, and then cancel it. That would spawn the cargo mission in a couple of minutes. Accept that mission, head over to the rooftop of the building, and parachute to the garage to pick the vehicle. After that, complete the cargo contract and gain the reward.

    Few pointers:

  • Decoys help you attract zombies to them, which helps you survive in high threat zones.

  • Parachuting helps you avoid zombies, thereby increasing your chances of survival.

  • Both these strategies help you maximize the loot by completing easy and quick contracts.

    14. A random squad is better than no squad

    When searching for a game, you can choose the "No Fill" option to play solo. However, remember that it's PvE mode, so having even random teammates will help you. Also, other teams will be exploring the same environment as you.

    Moreover, many tips and strategies highlighted above can be better executed when working in a team. Not to speak of the fact that it's easier to level up the weapons when playing as a team, as you would have proper cover.

    When playing alone, you are always at the risk of getting swamped.

    All in all, go with random teammates rather than no teammates.

    15. Switch between first and third person

    By default, the down button on the D-pad helps you switch to the third-person view. Press the same again, and you switch over to the first-person view.

    You might think, what's the use of the third person?

    The answer is that it provides you with a 360 view, so you can watch your own back. So, from time to time, switch over to a third-person view to be more situationally aware.

    16. Familiarize yourself with the map

    Map comprehension is necessary to achieve your goal in the Zombies mode. Be aware of the various threat zones, for the loot you can get from each one of them varies. For example, the loot is not that great in the low threat zone compared to the high threat zone, but you need a heavy arsenal of weapons to survive in this region.

    Not only that, it's better to hone your skills in the low threat zone before moving to the high threat one.

    17. Destroy the mercenary convoy

    Mercs aren't easy to handle. However, eliminating them does provide excellent loot. To head to their strongholds, you need a key. Kill the Merc convoy, and you'll get that key.

    The problem is the Merc convoy consists of 3 vehicles, and if you attack any, all the vehicles will stop, and the Mercs will get down to kill you. So, you suddenly have multiple trained enemies heading your way.

    So, what's the best strategy to eliminate the merc convoy?

    Head over to the large circular highway's southern part, for that's approximately where the convoy spawns each time. The area is located just after entering the medium threat zone.

    The best way to kill them is to use explosives. A sniper rifle can also come in handy if you are located at a distance.

    Eliminate all the Mercs in the convoy; and you should get the keycard. If not, try blowing up the vehicles.

    Note: While eliminating the Mercs, stay situationally aware, as zombies might attack you.

    18. Use the vehicles

    mw3 vehicles
    In Zombies mode, vehicles are your friends. To start with, they allow swift mobility and help you get out of a tricky situation pretty soon.

    You can even run over zombies using most vehicles. You can use them as cover even if you don't ride them.

    PS: If your vehicle runs out of fuel, simply park it near a gas station. Doing so refuels and repairs it.

    19. Get the content of the crates

    Don't ignore any crate in the Zombies mode. However, certain crates provide more valuable items.

    Prime examples are the crates having Aetherium Crystals. They usually provide Perk-A-Colas and Aetherium tools.

    Oh and, if you need help with the MWZ schematics, we can help you with our MWZ Schematics boosting service.

    When going inside buildings to grab crate contents, always try to get in and out quickly to avoid getting stuck in buildings with multiple zombies.

    20. Utilize exfil in a different way

    Exfil can be used to gain more XP. So, call the helicopter to drive zombies towards you, kill them, and let the helicopter leave. Do it repeatedly until you have attained the XP you want.

    21. Buildings are a trap

    Even a pistol is enough in lower threat zones to slay the zombies. Additionally, if you find it difficult to kill them, you can simply run away when in the open.

    However, inside the buildings your freedom is restricted. With a couple of zombies, there’s no difference. However, when you have 5 to 10 zombies chasing you in a building, chances are high that you might get stuck. Then buildings can turn into a trap. That's the reason to minimize time spent inside buildings.

    When entering the buildings:

  • Eliminate Zombies around to ensure they don't follow you in the buildings (they can open doors).

  • Remember all the ways out of the building so you can make a hasty exit if needed.

  • Leave the building as soon as you get the loot.

  • Note: Remember tip #4 mentioned above.

    22. Level up before entering high threat zone

    The map center is a high threat zone with zombies, which are more aggressive and have higher mobility. Before getting anywhere close to this zone, upgrading your weapons is best.

    Get in a vehicle and mow down as many zombies as you can. That gets you some easy XP and helps you upgrade your weapon before entering the high threat zone.

    Another way is to get the Pack-a-Punch machine by exploring the map, especially in medium threat zones. This machine allows you to upgrade your current weapon.

    Once you have upgraded weapons, move towards the map center.

    Read more in our: How To Level Up Fast In MW3

    23. Eliminate the orbs

    mwz orbs
    As you explore the map, you will come across purple orbs in the air sooner than later. These are Aether orbs. Shooting them down with a decent gun isn't that difficult, and it can provide valuable items and even cash. Many times, you can get a perk as well.

    Keep in mind that they do move around swiftly. That's why when trying to take them down, use a strong weapon and ask your teammates to help you out.

    24. Grab every mystery box

    mwz mystery box
    Mystery box location in MW3 zombies shows up on the map. Check the symbols index beside the map to know which icon denotes the mystery box. An Alternative method is to check the skies around you for a blue beam. That's the mystery box.

    Keep in mind that merely reaching the mystery box isn't enough. Make sure you have 950 Essence because that is the cost of opening the box.

    Since the mystery box offers the chance to get some valuable weapons, it's worth it to open every such box you can get your hands on.

    25. Optimize to outrun zombies in high threat zone

    In high threat zones, zombies are pretty fast. With multiple pieces of gear, it's difficult to outrun them. But there's a trick to being faster than them.

    When heading to the high threat zone, get Stamin-up perk with a single primary weapon. If you have two weapons, drop one with a lower rarity. Apart from that, when running, get your fists out. That will help you outrun zombies even in the high threat zone, which will help you survive.

    Note: The hounds will still get to you. So watch out for that.

    26. Stock up on armor plates

    Armor plates are a necessity in high threat zones. However, with zombies being more powerful in that zone, you do run out of plates quickly.

    Whenever you view a buy station, stock up on armor plates. With a large backpack, you can stock up to 17 plates. If you are farming contracts the cost of those plates shouldn't be a problem.

    27. Attack & eliminate the hellhounds first

    As highlighted above, even when moving briskly, the hellhounds in the high threat zone will get to you because of their speed. That's why, eliminate them fast. They can inflict extensive damage by repeatedly attacking you. The moment you view them, get moving and get in a better position to kill them.

    Unless you are getting into a vehicle, it's a good idea to kill them.

    28. Time the revive right

    Reviving a dead player increases the chances of being swamped by zombies. The probability of this happening is high in the high threat zone.

    Most players don't realize that if you move away mid-revival, the progress will be saved. So you can attempt to revive a player, and midway, you can move out to avoid being swamped by zombies, and after eliminating them, you can head to the player once again and continue reviving.

    You won't have to begin the revival process from scratch, so it can save time and life simultaneously.

    29. Get a friendly hound

    mwz hellhound
    Did you know you can get a friendly hellhound?

    Yes, you can!

    The hellhound will attack zombies on your behalf and revive you (even when playing solo) whenever needed.

    Getting such a dog isn't difficult.

  • Step 1: Kill zombies with explosives and collect at least 4 chunks of meat.

  • Step 2: Head over to the nearest doghouse and feed 4 pieces of meat to get a friendly hellhound.

  • Wait! There is only 1 problem.

    Dog Houses aren't marked on the map until you get close to them.

    Therefore, check the pic below to know the probable dog house locations and explore the nearest one.

    Dog house (approximate) locations:

    mwz dog house locations
    Once you get the friendly dog, it will follow you and won't sustain any damage from zombies.

    Note: Using the doghouse in the high threat area will likely provide you with a tier-3 hellhound.

    30. Water is your friend

    Zombies get through doors and can chase you briskly, especially in the high threat zone.

    But what about water?

    No, they can't swim. So get in the water and get away from them, or simply get underwater. Doing so will help you put some distance between zombies and yourself.

    Bonus Tip:

    Free gas masks, anyone?

    Gas masks, of course, are available at the buy stations, but there are two ways to get them for free.

  • Option 1: Take down enemy convoys, and most likely, they will drop a bunch of gas masks.

  • Option 2: When the gas is expanding towards the end of the game, call out an exfil chopper. Gas masks will be present within the chopper on the left side on a shelf. You can grab those gas masks and get out again.


  • FAQs

    What kills MWZ zombies the best?

    RGL, specially leveled up one, is a great way to kill zombies. If you are using a gun, ensure you have an assault rifle using which you can blast off the zombie's head.

    Can you play zombies solo in MW3?

    Yes, you can play zombies in solo mode and even join squads of other players within the game.

    Where does MW3 zombies take place?

    Urzikstan is the location of the zombies map.

    Who worked on MW3 Zombies?

    Treyarch has worked on the Zombies mode in collaboration with Sledgehammer games.

    What is the objective of MW3 zombies?

    Most players play the Zombies mode to level up faster, get some good weapons and of course enjoy the fun in slaying zombies.

    Wrapping it up

    With the COD MW3 zombies tips above, you can quickly learn the art of surviving and dominating the zombies mode. Leveling up certainly becomes easy since you can effectively use it for farming XP.

    If you don't want to grind the MWZ missions, schematics and more content in MWZ Zombies. Check out our MWZ missions boosting, MWZ schematics unlock service and more. Risk-free and carefree!

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