CoD: MW3’s first Season roadmap revealed a new mode with a Zombies-inspired theme:Vortex. However, Activision has chosen to be secretive about the details. So far, what players know is limited to the appearance of an infamous Wonder Weapon from previous Zombies modes and a playlist of three maps with strange names.
This guide explores the unique gameplay of this mode, revealing all the core mechanics and maps. Additionally, it estimates the possible release window based on the current official information. Here’severythingModern Warfare 3players need to know about the Vortex mode.

What Is The Vortex Mode In MW3?
Vortex isa limited-time Free-for-All mode. In this LTM, players must fight to acquire the Ray Gun. At the start of the match, one player spawns with theone-shot Wonder Weapon, and the remaining five competitors will need to kill them to retrieve the gun.
The goal of Vortex is the same asthe standard Free-for-All mode:Get the most kills to win. However, the Ray Gun is something of a plot twist to hinder the gameplay. Since this unique gun is overpowered, its wielder is the likeliest person to dominate the map.

Free-for-All
Comes with the Reloaded update.
6 players fight to obtain the Ray Gun and eliminate others.
Vortex’s title is a nod to the titular Face-Off mode in the originalMW3, which came as part of the Content Pack 6 update. However, the two modes have nothing in common other than the shared name.

What Maps Are In The Vortex Mode?
The new Vortex mode will be available in a playlist of three revamped maps:Sporeyard, Tetanus, and Satan’s Quarry. These are the modified versions ofMW2core maps, Scrapyard, Rust, and Quarry.
During the LTM, the mentioned maps will have a dark and eerie theme that matches the CODMAS event. However, the tac-maps are unlikely to change, and the renovation will be merely a thematic upgrade — with darker lighting and Zombies-inspired decorations.
When Does Vortex Come To Modern Warfare 3?
Vortex is scheduled to be introduced toMW3as part ofthe Reloaded update. Although the precise date remains unconfirmed, the mid-season adjustments are anticipated to roll out in early 2024. Considering this timeline, it’s reasonable to expect that the Vortex mode will likely be accessiblesometime between mid-January and early February.