Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 publisher confirms game isn't an expansion

When it comes to the Call of Duty franchise, publisher Activision is no stranger to releasing expansion packs with a wealth of new content. As attention turns towards the launch of Modern Warfare 3, players are wondering what Sledgehammer Games has in store.

Ahead of the reveal event, a reveal trailer has revealed the return of an iconic villain, much to the excitement of players looking forward to experiencing a new campaign continuing where Modern Warfare 2 left off.

With plenty of Modern Warfare 2 content transferring over to 2023's release, some players believe the game is an expensive expansion. To quash any rumours, Activision has confirmed Modern Warfare 3 is a fully-fledged premium release.

Is Modern Warfare 3 an expansion?

In a statement to CharlieINTEL, the Call of Duty publisher has reiterated Modern Warfare 3 is a "full premium release" featuring a new single-player and multiplayer experience.

In addition to confirming the game isn't a DLC, the publisher reveals details on why the Steam platform has categorised Modern Warfare 3 as an Add-On instead of a standalone release.

When Modern Warfare 3 launches, all Call of Duty games will appear on the Call of Duty HQ, a dedicated app that will contain the new release, Modern Warfare 2, and Warzone. The move aims to create a hub for the franchise, meaning all future Call of Duty titles will fall under Steam's Add-On category.

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Despite confirming Modern Warfare 3 isn't an expansion, players aren't convinced. One player says: "It's literally an expansion from MW2, yet they wanna call it a premium release?" Another adds: "Anything to make money. They don't give a damn about the fans anymore."

On the other hand, there are players continuing to share their hopes for Sledgehammer Games' latest instalment. One player reveals: "Not remotely surprised. Full campaign, full multiplayer with a new set of maps and guns, and possibly a Zombies mode of some kind. It's a full game."

With only a few months until the rumoured beta, it won't be long before players have a chance to experience Modern Warfare 3 before deciding to part ways with their cash.

For more Call of Duty, take a look at our guides showcasing how to transfer Modern Warfare 2 skins and the rumoured gun list expected to appear in the final release.