Modern Warfare 3’s Massive File Size

Highlights

Modern Warfare 3’s immense file size is due to an increased amount of content available on launch day, including open-world Zombies, item carry-forward from Modern Warfare 2, and map files for Warzone.
Players can manage their Call of Duty files to reduce the total file size by uninstalling specific content, such as Warzone, if they only want to play certain modes like multiplayer and the campaign.
Despite efforts to optimize game files, the total combined file size of Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone will still be significant, likely ranging from 100 to 200 GB, so players should ensure they have enough storage space and consider getting a dedicated SSD.

Activision has given a reason for the immense file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, citing an “increased amount of content” available on launch day. The file size of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is well over 200 GB on consoles and PC due to a variety of content install packs, including Warzone files.

Modern Warfare 3 campaign early access began on November 2, which is just eight days away from the game’s full release. Those who have digitally pre-ordered the game may get a head start by completing the campaign and earning rewards for the multiplayer component such as calling cards and double XP tokens. Unfortunately, the campaign early access launch did not go smoothly for some players due to strange “disc required” errors. This error would ask PlayStation gamers to insert a PS4 copy of Modern Warfare 2 to proceed into Modern Warfare 3, and the Call of Duty developers quickly released a statement to confirm that the issue is being investigated. Some players are also displeased with Call of Duty’s massive file size this year as it takes up a notable portion of a PS5 or Xbox Series X|S console’s internal storage.

Activision’s official Call of Duty Twitter account addresses Modern Warfare 3’s file size with an update for fans. Activision acknowledges that the game’s file size is larger than Modern Warfare 2’s and notes that the file size increase is due to content that’s supported on launch day. This content includes the open-world Zombies mode, support for Call of Duty’s new Carry-Forward system, and map files for Warzone. The developers are currently working on optimizing game files for Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone, so the final installation file size will be smaller than combined Call of Duty titles such as 2022’s Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone.

Activision reiterates that players may manage their Call of Duty files in the HQ launcher menu to reduce the total file size on their consoles and PCs. For example, players who only want to play Modern Warfare 3’s multiplayer modes and the campaign may uninstall Warzone and specific files. More details about Modern Warfare 3’s full launch will be revealed in the coming days through new social media posts and Call of Duty blog posts.

Modern Warfare 3’s file size may be a hindrance to console players, but Activision’s latest update gives some hope ahead of next week’s full launch. However, it’s likely that the total combined file size will still be well into the 100 to 200 GB range, so those planning to play Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone must ensure enough storage space is available. As a result, those wanting a dedicated game drive for the latest Call of Duty title may want to consider buying a SSD.

The large file size is not the only issue that players may contend with since some users report an issue regarding game sharing in Modern Warfare 3. Fortunately, Sledgehammer Games will likely release new updates in the coming days and weeks to fix issues from the campaign early access period and the game’s full launch.