Top 35 MW3 Tips and Tricks To Become a Better Player

MW3 multiplayer is arguably the most popular mode of the game. Popularity brings with it a lot of competition as well. Even though there is some form of skill-based matching, it's best to have a few tricks up your sleeve before playing a multiplayer match.

To help you out, I have tried out the mode myself and also spoken with numerous players to compile this extensive list of MW3 multiplayer tips to help you gain the upper hand.

1. Keep a watch on the minimap

Red dots on the minimap made a comeback in this game version. You will be doing a lot of dis-service if you don't pay attention to them. Any enemy not using a silencer will cause a red dot to appear on the map while firing. This means by simply keeping a watch on the minimap, you can gain an idea about the enemy positions.

It can help you:

Know enemy positions

Avoid high-traffic areas

Gain more situational awareness

On the flip side, if you are confident of taking down the enemy, you can simply rush to the red dots to ambush the enemy or take them by surprise.

2. Go with realistic killstreaks

Activating and completing the right killstreak is the key to gain XP which can allow you to level up fast.

However, which killstreaks should you choose?

Stick to the tips below when selecting a killstreak:

Go with killstreaks with lower requirements.

Keep in mind your average kill score before equipping a slot with a killstreak.

Once you start fulfilling the killstreak requirements, more often than not, slowly replace the killstreak with a more demanding one. Follow this to constantly upgrade killstreaks.

It's best to be conservative when it comes to killstreaks.

3. Always use a headset

Most players think COD is just about reflexes. This is half truth. Without situational awareness, reflexes won't take you far. One of the best ways to become aware is to use the right headset because there are plenty of audio cues you can pick up.

Some examples include:

In small maps like Favela, listening to enemies can let you know what they are attempting to do.

Heard a gunshot? Check the minimap to know the position.

Not everyone is using covert sneakers; therefore, always be alert for footsteps.

Anyone who is looking to gain an upper hand on enemies in MW3 multiplayer should surely invest in a good headset so that they don't miss any action. Many headsets cut out noise, further enhancing every small audio. Thereby, the right headset can even give you an advantage over other players with a substandard headset. I personally use the Steelseries Arctics Pro Wireless.

4. Always adapt

Do you always stick to a preferred weapon loadout?

The truth is, the same loadout won't work very well in every situation. This is especially true for maps that offer close and long-range combat opportunities, both.

Let's say in Afghan, you aren't getting many kills with a shotgun despite it being your favorite gun. It's time to switch it up and see what makes you more effective. You might even find a new favorite gun.

Adaption is the key. Combine that with the team role you have been allocated, and you become an even more effective player.

My point is don't be so rigid that you avoid any experimentation even after dismissal performance.

5. Choose the loadouts carefully

Loadouts allow you to choose among perks, lethal, tactical equipment, and much more. With proper customization options, especially after the recent overhaul of the perk system, it is in your interest to build custom loadouts.

The reason is that as you start leveling up in MW3, you can customize your gun and choose the gear according to the perks you want to enjoy. You can align all these with your play style. Such custom loadouts will help you further enhance your skills, which will help you slay more enemies, win more matches, and eventually level up even faster.

6. Improve your corner peeking game

This tip isn't just limited to the multiplayer mode. It works equally well in all modes.

You are vulnerable to an ambush when turning corners and heading into a new area. That's why you need to be more careful with the corners.

The question is how?

Before turning the corners, follow the 2 tips below:

Stay within the cover and try to catch clip reloading, walking, or stance-switching audio noises.

Instead of leaping around the corner, peek around it and get back within cover. This gives you situational awareness by taking limited risk.

If you are new to a map and aren't aware of sightlines or angles while moving around corners, stick to the fringes of the map until you gain cover from your teammates.

7. Throw a grenade with a twist

Let's say you are equipped with an RPG and have an enemy in sight. Where will you fire the RPG?

Beginners would say, directly at the enemy. A much better option is to fire it at the ground or a vehicle nearby. That way, you eliminate that enemy plus anyone in the vicinity.

So, whenever aiming an RPG or a grenade, aim it with a twist to cause maximum damage. Even if you don't kill other enemies in the vicinity, at least you will injure them.

8. Take cover and reload

If you are caught off guard during reloading, there is little you can do. If you don't reload tactically, this will happen sooner than later.

Don't want to fall into that trap? If so, stick to the tips below:

Reload after taking cover. At least you won't be exposed to sightlines.

When you take cover for reloading, first listen to any audio sounds nearby. Once you confirm that there are no audio sounds indicating an enemy nearby, then reload your weapon.

If you get a cover, reload ahead of time. That way, you would have a full magazine the next time you spot an opponent.

It's also a good idea to ask a teammate to provide you cover when reloading.

9. Jump around when shooting

Once you are face to face with an enemy, one with better accuracy wins.

However, even with lower accuracy, you can win the battle.

Instead of being stationary or on the ground while firing, jump around. Sure, your accuracy might suffer somewhat, but your opponent's accuracy will go for a complete toss, helping you dodge bullets.

Among seasoned players, this tip is very common. Jumping & shooting can provide you extra few seconds to kill your opponent, which is enough in a fast-paced game like COD MW3.

Read more in our: How To Unlock The Bone Collector Skin in MW3 Zombies

10. Throw grenades a bit further

What if you could increase the range of grenades?

Technically, you can't, but with the tip below, you can throw them a bit further.

The tip is to run and jump before throwing the grenade. The idea is to release the grenade when in the air, which will help you throw the grenade a bit farther.

The good news is that this tip works while throwing a knife as well.

11. Always use a silencer

A silencer keeps you hidden since you don't show up on the enemy minimap when firing.

The only problem with using a silencer is that the firing range decreases. Also, you might still show up on the enemy minimap if you are close by.

The first problem can be easily countered by using a weapon that provides you a better rate of fire, which can somewhat compensate for loss of range. This effect is seen in guns like PP90M1. Apart from that, most submachine guns also have a high rate of fire to compensate for the loss of range.

My point is to use a silencer but on the right weapon.

12. Use the right gun for hip firing

Hip firing isn't necessarily accurate but can get you a kill or two, especially in the multiplayer mode. However, for that, you need to choose the right gun.

Some suitable options include:

MP7

ACR

P90

M16A4

UMP45

FMG9

The top 3 are suitable for medium range, and the bottom 3 are suitable for close range.

Hip firing comes in handy when trying to get a quick shot or when turning around the corner and knowing the enemy is just out of range.

13. Use the tags to get kills

In the kill confirmed mode, whenever you kill someone, they can drop a tag. Pick up that tag, and you are awarded an additional 50XP. Needless to say, the opponents indeed rush to get that tag.

These tags can be used as baits as well to get some kills. Take cover behind an object from where you can easily establish a sightline if someone comes and get an easy kill.

Note: This game mode isn't popular anymore, and therefore, finding such a match isn't that easy.

14. Enhance sniper accuracy

Sniping works great in long range combat.

But what if you spot an enemy closer to you?

A good strategy is to press the shift button to pause your breath and then shoot. At close range, especially when the opponent is moving around, this improves your accuracy significantly.

So, if you are a sniper and want to get out of a tough close combat situation, try this trick.

15. Go with the strike package

MW3 offers 3 strike packages, which are assault, support, and specialist. The rewards in each one are different.

Instead of chasing the best rewards in the assault package, assess your role and skills and thereafter choose one.

Let's say you are a beginner; in that case, going with the support strike package makes sense. The primary benefit is it doesn't reset when you die.

Similarly, if you are confident of your shooting abilities, go with the assault package, for it provides the best killstreak rewards.

So, choose the package according to your skills, which will help you level up fast. This, in turn, helps you gain more perks.

16. Constantly relocate when camping

Do you prefer camping?

Truth is, camping is great until you get your first kill. Thereafter, the player can use the killcam to spot you. That way, soon enough, your camping spot is discovered, and you are now a sitting duck.

A better approach is to change your location after every couple of kills. That way, even if someone watches the kill cam, they won't be able to spot your latest location, and you can continue getting those kills.

17. Customize the settings right

One thing that the COD franchise developers should be given credit for is the level of customization they offer. You can tweak multiple settings like:

Visual

Audio

Input devices

& So on

Modify these at your convenience to gain that slight edge over your competitors.

A prime example is turning off motion blur or film grain. Those aren't of any use in the multiplayer mode. Turning them off helps you enhance visibility which provides an edge.

18. Start at the outskirts

The middle of the map is where most action occurs in MW3. Depending on your skill set, this can be good news or bad news. My advice would be to start on the outskirts of the map. When you work your way towards the middle, you will get plenty of opportunities to pick up gunfights and kill enemies.

On the contrary, if you directly rush to the middle, chances are you might get attacked from multiple angles, which certainly puts you in peril.

Sure enough, starting at the outskirts means it will take you more time to reach the center, but it's worth it since your chances of staying alive and getting some kills are higher.

A prime example is the Afghan map. Instead of rushing to the crashed plane, start at the outskirts.

Why?

Because most likely, when you rush to the crashed plane, you will be targeted by snipers, putting you at a significant disadvantage.

19. Ensure the gun is always up

Movement mechanics are much faster and smoother in COD MW3. Therefore, your reaction time needs to be quick. One way to have blazing-fast reaction time is to always keep your gun up. Whether exploring a building or turning a corner, your gun should always be up so you can shoot within a couple of seconds.

Faster firing speed certainly helps you gain an advantage over your opponents.

20. Avoid random squad members

COD MW3 multiplayer mode is a team game. Even with the best skills, you will be at a disadvantage if you have a random squad. Moreover, the communication and teamplay will suffer if you play with random players.

The best option is to have at least 1 or 2 friends in your squad. That way, your odds of winning go way up, and it's easier to make the other players fall in line.

21. Use the covert sneakers

Did you know MW3 brought back covert sneakers?

Yes, if you use the perk system right (don't go for a gunner vest), you can wear the covert sneakers, which would dampen the sound of your footsteps. Once dampened, you are at an advantage since you will operate in stealth mode for most part.

22. Avoid sneaking up

Sneaking up on someone to stab them is a beginner's mistake you should avoid in MW3 multiplayer games. A better option is to shoot them once you get a proper angle.

If you continue with your quest of sneaking, chances are they will turn around and shoot you before you reach them. Only when someone is camping can you risk sneaking up on them.

With faster movement dynamics, it's best to shoot your enemy from a distance and get that kill.

23. Crouch as much as possible

Crouching is your friend when it comes to this game mode.

Got shot? Crouch.

Health is low? Crouch.

Have a raised structure nearby? Crouch behind it.

Crouching makes it difficult for the opponent to spot or shoot you. Moreover, crouching means you need less space to stay hidden. Considering all these advantages, crouch whenever possible.

Note:

Always be situationally aware when crouching to ensure someone doesn't sneak up on you.

24. Don't change your playstyle because the game is new

So, in MW3, movement dynamics have changed, red dots in the minimap are back, and many other changes have been incorporated. But that doesn't mean you change your playstyle.

Your playstyle essentially depends on:

Team Role

Weapons you use

Shooting temperament

Pay attention to these attributes, and identifying your playstyle becomes easy. Once you have identified the same, don't deviate from it. Just because the game is new doesn't mean you need a new play style. Capitalize on your current style to become even better.

25. Choose the right role and stick to it

When it comes to multiplayer, you can't ignore your role. There is no point in carrying a shotgun and hiding, hoping that someone comes nearby.

If you want stealth skills, you better adopt the role of a sniper. So, know your role and stick to it.

If your playstyle isn't aligned with the role, speak up with the team, but don't become a lone wolf because you don't like your role. That will only put you and your team at risk.

26. Prioritize team win

Multiplayer isn't about getting those killstreaks at the cost of the team. It's about the team win. Therefore, always stick to the team objective and the team role.

The only exception to this rule is when you have a random squad where everyone is playing as a lone wolf despite being in a team. That is when you go for the kills since it's a losing cause anyway.

27. Don't always save the gear

Many players make the mistake of trying to save their gear.

What use will your gear be if you go down?

Examples include:

Using grenades to flush out enemies rather than saving them for later.

Covering your retreat with a Molotov.

Merely saving the gear for later isn't a good idea.

28. Run from cover to cover

As highlighted above, MW3 multiplayer isn't about camping in a single spot for long. However, that doesn't mean you run helter-skelter trying to find enemies.

A better approach is to run from cover to cover. That means before you leave your current cover, spot the next one and move accordingly. To spot the right cover, keep the following tips in mind:

The next cover should be nearby; otherwise, the sound of your footsteps while running long distances will expose you.

Move forward or retreat in bursts.

Gain and provide cover to your teammates while moving around.

Be aware of your surroundings when moving from cover to cover.

29. Always watch the killcam

Want to become a better MW3 player?

A simple hack is to watch the killcam every time you get killed. That lets you know a lot of things about what went wrong, like:

Position of the enemy

Your mistake

What you could have done differently

Improvising based on these details will help you improve your game consistently.

30. Always attempt to get a killstreak

Let's say you are losing the match. Instead of losing control over the game, attempt to gain a killstreak. I know it's easier said than done. But, gaining a killstreak at that instance will provide you with fierce firepower. That can be enough to tilt some losing games in your favor.

It might not always work, but you were losing anyway, so better to try something that can put you back in the driving seat.

31. Beware of claymores

Claymores are making a comeback in MW3, so why not use them?

Simply put, they are equipped with Shrapnel perk, are easy to hide, and have a high blast radius. Plant them right, and you are almost guaranteed a kill. The best place to plant them is behind closed doors.

Equally important is to avoid claymores planted by enemies. Follow the few tips below to avoid them:

Watch out for red lasers that protrude from the top of claymores.

Avoid rushing through closed doors and try to scout the area first.

Since claymore blast radius is high, shooting them can injure you. So ensure you are at a safe distance before doing that.

If you have the spotter perk equipped, don't hesitate to use it.

32. Do shootdown UAVs

Did you know now you can take down UAVs with a single assault rifle clip?

It was a tedious job in earlier versions of the game, but not anymore. As long as you have an assault rifle and your aim is decent, you take them down in a single clip. No need to have an RPG for that. So don't shy away from taking them to eliminate enemy advantage.

33. Do try out the M4A1 and 725 shotgun

Till now, I have shied away from recommending specific guns, but do check out this combination. The trick here is to use the Overkill perk to carry two primary weapons. Once equipped, go with an M4A1 and 725 shotgun, and you have an edge over your opponents.

Of course, a lot depends on your playstyle, but these 2 primary weapons put you at an advantage.

34. Don't take maps for granted

Multiplayer maps are the remakes of the original ones, but that doesn't mean there are no significant changes. Instead of thinking you are familiar with every map, it's best to explore and familiarize yourself with the maps again. There are 2 reasons why I am saying this:

The gameplay is significantly different, with the ability to move faster and climb over more surfaces.

Spawn points have changed. Therefore, the fluidity of movement is different.

Due to these 2 reasons, even if you had a perfect strategy for a map earlier, you will likely have to rework that strategy.

35. Go overboard with communication

Irrespective of which multiplayer game you are playing, communication is always the key.

Instead of thinking that something is obvious enough not to convey to your team members, go overboard with communication.

It will help you and your team to alter strategy in real-time if needed, putting you at an advantage over the competition.

FAQs

How do you level up fast in Modern Warfare 3 Multiplayer?

Simply put, get as many kills as possible, level up your weapons to become a formidable foe, which will further increase the kills you get, and after that, use the XP to level up.

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

Who developed MW3 multiplayer?

MW3 multiplayer is developed by Sledgehammer and Infinity Ward combined, each one of them sharing responsibilities.

How many maps are in MW3?

There are 16 multiplayer maps with an addition of 4 larger environment maps, bringing the total to 20.

Wrapping it up

Want to upgrade your MW3 multiplayer skills?

Stick to the above tips, and you can outplay most opponents. The longer you stick to these tips, the better your gameplay will be, allowing you to level up faster, which will help you improve your gameplay even more. In a nutshell, these tips can make a real difference.

If you don't want to go through the grind of grinding to unlock camos in MW3, simply use our CoD MW 3 Camo boosting service, MW 3 account leveling and weapon leveling services to attain the levels and camos you wish to and enjoy all the perks that come with it hassle-free.