ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III - Revision history

Mob at 05:26, 29 June 2026

2026-06-29T05:26:42Z

Mob at 04:58, 29 June 2026

2026-06-29T04:58:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:58, 29 June 2026
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	'''''ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III''''' is a 2015 [[first-person shooter]] video game developed by [[Air Studios]] and published by [[Mob Productions]]. It was released worldwide on November 10, 2015, for [[Microsoft Windows]], [[PlayStation 3]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Xbox One]].<ref name="Launch">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=November 10, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Available Now Worldwide \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-launch \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=November 10, 2015}}</ref> It is the sequel to ''[[ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare II]]'' (2012) and the third main installment in the ''Dark Warfare'' sub-series of the ''[[ShooterofIO]]'' franchise.<ref name="Announcement">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref><ref name="AirReturn">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Returns With Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-air-studios-return \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref>		'''''ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III''''' is a 2015 [[first-person shooter]] video game developed by [[Air Studios]] and published by [[Mob Productions]]. It was released worldwide on November 10, 2015, for [[Microsoft Windows]], [[PlayStation 3]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Xbox One]].<ref name="Launch">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=November 10, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Available Now Worldwide \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-launch \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=November 10, 2015}}</ref> It is the sequel to ''[[ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare II]]'' (2012) and the third main installment in the ''Dark Warfare'' sub-series of the ''[[ShooterofIO]]'' franchise.<ref name="Announcement">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref><ref name="AirReturn">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Returns With Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-air-studios-return \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref>

	The game features Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Modes">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Modes Confirmed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-modes \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The Campaign continues the covert operations style of ''Dark Warfare II'', following a renewed Task Force Bravo investigation into surviving Havel Program fragments and the hostile networks attempting to recover them. Multiplayer returns with class-based competitive play, darker map design, and a revised skill-based matchmaking system intended to place stronger emphasis on connection quality and playlist stability.<ref name="IntelDrop02">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=August 11, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 02: Multiplayer SBMM and Enhancements \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-02-multiplayer \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=August 11, 2015}}</ref> Zombies continues the Aetheris storyline following the events of ''The First Door'' ~~and returns to gameplay closely based~~ on '~~'Dark Warfare II'', with GobbleGums, Weapon Kits, Cursed mode, and Relics as its main additions~~.<ref name="ZombiesReveal">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=July 14, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Zombies Revealed \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-revealed \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=July 14, 2015}}</ref><ref name="IntelDrop03">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=August 25, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 03: Zombies Modes and Platform \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-03-zombies-modes-platform \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=August 25, 2015}}</ref>		The game features Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Modes">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Modes Confirmed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-modes \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The Campaign continues the covert operations style of ''Dark Warfare II'', following a renewed Task Force Bravo investigation into surviving Havel Program fragments and the hostile networks attempting to recover them. Multiplayer returns with class-based competitive play, darker map design, and a revised skill-based matchmaking system intended to place stronger emphasis on connection quality and playlist stability.<ref name="IntelDrop02">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=August 11, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 02: Multiplayer SBMM and Enhancements \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-02-multiplayer \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=August 11, 2015}}</ref> Zombies continues the Aetheris storyline following the events of ''The First Door'', centering on the surviving crew's attempt to reclaim Edward Richtofen from the Aetheris dimension after learning that each member must first confront a place tied to their past.<ref name="ZombiesReveal">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=July 14, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Zombies Revealed \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-revealed \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=July 14, 2015}}</ref>

	''Dark Warfare III'' was the first Air Studios-led ''ShooterofIO'' game developed on the SOI Engine, following the technology's use in ''[[ShooterofIO: Modern Ops 3]]'' and ''[[ShooterofIO: Guardians]]''.<ref name="Engine">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Uses SOI Engine \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-soi-engine \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The game received critical acclaim on Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, with praise for its focused Campaign, atmospheric presentation, Multiplayer pacing, and Zombies mode. The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions received lower scores due to reduced visual quality, longer loading times, and performance issues.		''Dark Warfare III'' was the first Air Studios-led ''ShooterofIO'' game developed on the SOI Engine, following the technology's use in ''[[ShooterofIO: Modern Ops 3]]'' and ''[[ShooterofIO: Guardians]]''.<ref name="Engine">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Uses SOI Engine \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-soi-engine \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The game received critical acclaim on Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, with praise for its focused Campaign, atmospheric presentation, Multiplayer pacing, and Zombies mode. The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions received lower scores due to reduced visual quality, longer loading times, and performance issues.
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	Cursed has three reward tiers. Tier 1 usually requires three Grim Relics, two Sinister Relics, or one Wicked Relic to become active. Tier 1 grants Golden Armor Plates, which allow armor plates to recharge automatically. Higher Cursed tiers grant stronger rewards, but they require more severe Relic combinations and higher completion requirements. A player may equip additional Relics beyond the first reward threshold to push the Cursed bar toward the next tier.		Cursed has three reward tiers. Tier 1 usually requires three Grim Relics, two Sinister Relics, or one Wicked Relic to become active. Tier 1 grants Golden Armor Plates, which allow armor plates to recharge automatically. Higher Cursed tiers grant stronger rewards, but they require more severe Relic combinations and higher completion requirements. A player may equip additional Relics beyond the first reward threshold to push the Cursed bar toward the next tier.

	Each Zombies map has six Relics, with two Grim Relics, two Sinister Relics, and two Wicked Relics per map.<ref name="IntelDrop03" /> Relics are unlocked through hidden in-map quests. These quests vary in difficulty; some are easier and can be solved through exploration and basic objective completion, while others require difficult puzzle steps, specific round conditions, obscure interactions, or high-risk combat challenges. Grim Relics require players to reach Round 20 in a Cursed match, Sinister Relics require Round 40 and access to Tier 1 Cursed, and Wicked Relics require Round 60 and access to Tier 2 Cursed.		Each Zombies map has six Relics, with two Grim Relics, two Sinister Relics, and two Wicked Relics per map.<ref name="IntelDrop03">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=August 25, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 03: Zombies Modes and Platform \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-03-zombies-modes-platform \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=August 25, 2015}}</ref> Relics are unlocked through hidden in-map quests. These quests vary in difficulty; some are easier and can be solved through exploration and basic objective completion, while others require difficult puzzle steps, specific round conditions, obscure interactions, or high-risk combat challenges. Grim Relics require players to reach Round 20 in a Cursed match, Sinister Relics require Round 40 and access to Tier 1 Cursed, and Wicked Relics require Round 60 and access to Tier 2 Cursed.

	GobbleGums are single-use consumable abilities that players can equip before a match and activate from GobbleGum machines during gameplay.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> They provide temporary or situational effects, such as granting bonus points, improving movement for a short time, instantly repairing barricades, forcing a power-up spawn, helping revive teammates, or temporarily strengthening weapons. Players build a GobbleGum pack before starting a match, giving them a limited set of tactical options without replacing the core round-based survival loop.		GobbleGums are single-use consumable abilities that players can equip before a match and activate from GobbleGum machines during gameplay.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> They provide temporary or situational effects, such as granting bonus points, improving movement for a short time, instantly repairing barricades, forcing a power-up spawn, helping revive teammates, or temporarily strengthening weapons. Players build a GobbleGum pack before starting a match, giving them a limited set of tactical options without replacing the core round-based survival loop.
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	\|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date\|2015\|11\|10}}		\|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date\|2015\|11\|10}}
	\|LineColor = #2b0f36		\|LineColor = #2b0f36
	\|ShortSummary = Following ~~the closure of the First Door~~, ~~the surviving crew is drawn to~~ an abandoned observatory ~~scarred by Aetherglass residue and suspended between Earth and Aetheris. The site contains fractured recordings of past events, repeated visions of~~ the First Door~~, and distorted messages resembling [[Edward Richtofen]]~~'s ~~voice~~. As the ~~crew restores power~~ and ~~opens the sealed research wings, they discover~~ that the ~~observatory was built~~ to ~~track locations that had fallen through Aetheris rather than~~ to ~~observe the sky~~. The ~~crew stabilizes the broken~~ telescope ~~array~~, ~~recovers Aetherglass fragments~~, ~~and forces~~ the ~~observatory~~ to ~~reveal the next breach location. The ending reveals that~~ Richtofen ~~did not simply vanish at the end of~~ '~~'The First Door''; part of him remains trapped inside~~ the ~~damaged Aetheris network, aware of the crew but unable to fully return~~.<ref name="LaunchLore">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=November 13, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies: Launch Map Lore \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-launch-map-lore \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=November 13, 2015}}</ref>		\|ShortSummary = Following Richtofen's disappearance into Aetheris, Noah Mad, Sarah Caster, and Nikolai Dawn are pulled toward an abandoned observatory where the sky appears frozen over the First Door's last known location. The crew discovers that Richtofen is alive, but scattered through the Aetheris dimension and unable to return in a single form. A voice speaking through damaged Aetherglass warns that the path to him cannot be opened by force; each survivor must first recover an anchor from a place tied to their own past. The observatory's telescope is repaired and turned inward, revealing not stars, but memories buried inside Aetheris. The crew uses the array to stabilize Richtofen's signal long enough to learn that the first anchor lies beneath a drowned containment site known as Blackwater.<ref name="LaunchLore">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=November 13, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies: Launch Map Lore \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-launch-map-lore \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=November 13, 2015}}</ref>
	}}		}}
	{{Episode list		{{Episode list
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	\|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date\|2015\|11\|10}}		\|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date\|2015\|11\|10}}
	\|LineColor = #2b0f36		\|LineColor = #2b0f36
	\|ShortSummary = The crew follows ~~the~~ signal ~~recovered from the observatory~~ to a flooded containment site ~~built around~~ old transfer chambers and ~~contaminated reservoir systems. Though smaller in narrative scale than ''The Hollow Observatory''~~, the ~~map expands the new rules of Aetheris contamination by showing how breach residue can spread through water, machinery, and biological samples. The~~ crew ~~discovers~~ that Blackwater was used to ~~test~~ whether ~~Aetherglass fragments~~ could be ~~diluted~~, ~~transported, and stored without opening another full breach~~. The ~~experiments failed when the contaminated water began replaying memories from locations~~ that ~~no longer existed, causing parts of the facility to shift between different states~~. The crew ~~purges the central reservoir and seals several transfer chambers~~, ~~but recovers evidence~~ that ~~Blackwater was only one site~~ in ~~a larger containment network beginning~~ to ~~reconnect through damaged Aetheris pathways~~.<ref name="LaunchLore" />		\|ShortSummary = The crew follows Richtofen's fractured signal to Blackwater Facility, a flooded containment site where Aetherglass residue has infected the water systems and old transfer chambers. As the facility shifts between past and present, the crew learns that Blackwater was used to study memories pulled from Aetheris and to determine whether human experience could be preserved as a navigational key. They recover a damaged anchor, but it does not belong to any of them; it is a marker left by Richtofen before he was fully consumed. The discovery confirms that Richtofen understood what was happening and prepared a route back. The crew escapes as Blackwater collapses, realizing that the remaining anchors are hidden in places connected to their own lives.<ref name="LaunchLore" />
	}}		}}
	{{End\|html=y\|Episode table}}		{{End\|html=y\|Episode table}}
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	Mob Productions released three editions of the game. The Standard Edition included the base game. The Digital Deluxe Edition included the base game, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a digital soundtrack sampler, a set of profile customization items, and the Shadow Pack, which contained cosmetic items for Multiplayer and Zombies. The Blacksite Edition included the base game, a steelbook case, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a Task Force Bravo dossier booklet, behind-the-scenes disc, soundtrack sampler, and exclusive cosmetic items for Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Editions">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=September 6, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Editions Detailed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-editions \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=September 6, 2015}}</ref>		Mob Productions released three editions of the game. The Standard Edition included the base game. The Digital Deluxe Edition included the base game, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a digital soundtrack sampler, a set of profile customization items, and the Shadow Pack, which contained cosmetic items for Multiplayer and Zombies. The Blacksite Edition included the base game, a steelbook case, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a Task Force Bravo dossier booklet, behind-the-scenes disc, soundtrack sampler, and exclusive cosmetic items for Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Editions">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=September 6, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Editions Detailed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-editions \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=September 6, 2015}}</ref>

	On November 13, 2015, Air Studios released a Zombies lore briefing for the two launch maps.<ref name="LaunchLore" /> The briefing presented "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility" as the first two episodes of the ''Dark Warfare III'' Zombies storyline, explaining that the ~~former served as~~ the ~~major opening chapter while the latter functioned as a shorter mid-story episode~~. The update also clarified that ~~the launch story~~ would ~~continue the aftermath of ''The First Door'', focusing on the damaged state of Aetheris, the remaining Aetherglass fragments, and~~ the ~~unresolved disappearance of Edward~~ Richtofen.<ref name="LaunchLore" />		On November 13, 2015, Air Studios released a Zombies lore briefing for the two launch maps.<ref name="LaunchLore" /> The briefing presented "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility" as the first two episodes of the ''Dark Warfare III'' Zombies storyline, explaining that the launch maps set up the larger quest to reclaim Richtofen from Aetheris. The update also clarified that later Zombies chapters would force the surviving crew to revisit places tied to their pasts before Richtofen could be restored.<ref name="LaunchLore" />

	Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the Zombies reveal was positive among outlets that had criticized the Zombies mode in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=July 15, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies Returns to Dark Warfare II Roots \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-reveal \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=July 15, 2015}}</ref>		Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the Zombies reveal was positive among outlets that had criticized the Zombies mode in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=July 15, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies Returns to Dark Warfare II Roots \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-reveal \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=July 15, 2015}}</ref>

Mob at 04:53, 29 June 2026

2026-06-29T04:53:27Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:53, 29 June 2026
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	The announced story follows Bravo through black sites, compromised safehouses, abandoned laboratories, and civilian districts hiding military infrastructure beneath them. The Campaign centers on the danger of incomplete classified research being rebuilt by people who do not fully understand what they have recovered.<ref name="CampaignTease" />		The announced story follows Bravo through black sites, compromised safehouses, abandoned laboratories, and civilian districts hiding military infrastructure beneath them. The Campaign centers on the danger of incomplete classified research being rebuilt by people who do not fully understand what they have recovered.<ref name="CampaignTease" />

	~~The~~ Zombies ~~storyline is separate from the Campaign and continues the Aetheris arc~~. Following the ~~events~~ of ~~''The~~ First Door'', the ~~closure~~ of the ~~breach network leaves behind fragments of Aetherglass, unstable memories~~, and ~~pieces of locations that should no longer exist~~. ~~The announcement suggests that~~ the crew~~'s actions did not end~~ the ~~threat~~, ~~but instead trapped part of Aetheris closer~~ to ~~Earth.~~		===Zombies===
			<!-- To maintain article readability, map plot summaries should be restricted to a maximum of 200 words. -->
	~~Air Studios Intel Drop 01 revealed~~ that ~~not every Zombies map in ''Dark Warfare III'' is planned~~ to ~~carry~~ the same amount of narrative weight.<ref name="IntelDrop01" /> Some maps serve as shorter, self-contained survival chapters, while others carry longer story beats, main quest developments, and major Aetheris revelations. The ~~first and final Zombies maps are intended to remain~~ the ~~largest narrative anchors of the game's Zombies storyline~~, ~~while several middle maps may vary in scale depending on their role in the release cycle.<ref name="IntelDrop01" />~~		{{Episode table \|background = #2b0f36 \|overall = \|title = \|airdate = \|dontclose = y}}
			{{Episode list
	~~"The Hollow Observatory" serves as the first major Zombies chapter of ''Dark Warfare III''. It follows the aftermath of the burned~~ Aetherglass ~~shard shown in the announcement trailer~~ and ~~returns~~ the ~~story~~ to ~~an observatory space fractured by Aetheris residue~~. The ~~map is positioned as the opening statement for the new Zombies arc, connecting~~ the end of ''The First Door'' to ~~the new breach behavior seen in ''Dark Warfare III''~~.<ref name="~~IntelDrop01~~" />		\|EpisodeNumber = 1
			\|Title = The Hollow Observatory
	"Blackwater Facility~~" is~~ the ~~second launch Zombies map. It is described as~~ a ~~mid-story map centered on a smaller~~ containment site ~~where Aetheris residue has contaminated water systems, research tanks, and~~ old transfer chambers. ~~Rather~~ than ~~acting as a full opening chapter~~, the map expands the new rules of ~~the~~ breach ~~network~~ and ~~shows how Aetheris~~ fragments ~~have begun affecting separate~~ locations ~~after~~ the ~~First Voice~~ was ~~silenced~~.<ref name="~~IntelDrop01~~" />		\|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date\|2015\|11\|10}}
			\|LineColor = #2b0f36
			\|ShortSummary = Following the closure of the First Door, the surviving crew is drawn to an abandoned observatory scarred by Aetherglass residue and suspended between Earth and Aetheris. The site contains fractured recordings of past events, repeated visions of the First Door, and distorted messages resembling [[Edward Richtofen]]'s voice. As the crew restores power and opens the sealed research wings, they discover that the observatory was built to track locations that had fallen through Aetheris rather than to observe the sky. The crew stabilizes the broken telescope array, recovers Aetherglass fragments, and forces the observatory to reveal the next breach location. The ending reveals that Richtofen did not simply vanish at the end of ''The First Door''; part of him remains trapped inside the damaged Aetheris network, aware of the crew but unable to fully return.<ref name="LaunchLore">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=November 13, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies: Launch Map Lore \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-launch-map-lore \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=November 13, 2015}}</ref>
			}}
			{{Episode list
			\|EpisodeNumber = 2
			\|Title = Blackwater Facility
			\|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date\|2015\|11\|10}}
			\|LineColor = #2b0f36
			\|ShortSummary = The crew follows the signal recovered from the observatory to a flooded containment site built around old transfer chambers and contaminated reservoir systems. Though smaller in narrative scale than ''The Hollow Observatory'', the map expands the new rules of Aetheris contamination by showing how breach residue can spread through water, machinery, and biological samples. The crew discovers that Blackwater was used to test whether Aetherglass fragments could be diluted, transported, and stored without opening another full breach. The experiments failed when the contaminated water began replaying memories from locations that no longer existed, causing parts of the facility to shift between different states. The crew purges the central reservoir and seals several transfer chambers, but recovers evidence that Blackwater was only one site in a larger containment network beginning to reconnect through damaged Aetheris pathways.<ref name="LaunchLore" />
			}}
			{{End\|html=y\|Episode table}}

	==Development==		==Development==
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	Mob Productions released three editions of the game. The Standard Edition included the base game. The Digital Deluxe Edition included the base game, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a digital soundtrack sampler, a set of profile customization items, and the Shadow Pack, which contained cosmetic items for Multiplayer and Zombies. The Blacksite Edition included the base game, a steelbook case, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a Task Force Bravo dossier booklet, behind-the-scenes disc, soundtrack sampler, and exclusive cosmetic items for Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Editions">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=September 6, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Editions Detailed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-editions \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=September 6, 2015}}</ref>		Mob Productions released three editions of the game. The Standard Edition included the base game. The Digital Deluxe Edition included the base game, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a digital soundtrack sampler, a set of profile customization items, and the Shadow Pack, which contained cosmetic items for Multiplayer and Zombies. The Blacksite Edition included the base game, a steelbook case, Campaign Early Access eligibility, a Task Force Bravo dossier booklet, behind-the-scenes disc, soundtrack sampler, and exclusive cosmetic items for Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Editions">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=September 6, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Editions Detailed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-editions \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=September 6, 2015}}</ref>

			On November 13, 2015, Air Studios released a Zombies lore briefing for the two launch maps.<ref name="LaunchLore" /> The briefing presented "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility" as the first two episodes of the ''Dark Warfare III'' Zombies storyline, explaining that the former served as the major opening chapter while the latter functioned as a shorter mid-story episode. The update also clarified that the launch story would continue the aftermath of ''The First Door'', focusing on the damaged state of Aetheris, the remaining Aetherglass fragments, and the unresolved disappearance of Edward Richtofen.<ref name="LaunchLore" />

	Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the Zombies reveal was positive among outlets that had criticized the Zombies mode in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=July 15, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies Returns to Dark Warfare II Roots \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-reveal \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=July 15, 2015}}</ref>		Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the Zombies reveal was positive among outlets that had criticized the Zombies mode in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=July 15, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies Returns to Dark Warfare II Roots \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-reveal \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=July 15, 2015}}</ref>

Mob at 04:45, 29 June 2026

2026-06-29T04:45:28Z

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Mob at 03:35, 29 June 2026

2026-06-29T03:35:31Z

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Mob at 03:27, 29 June 2026

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Mob at 03:18, 29 June 2026

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Mob at 23:41, 28 June 2026

2026-06-28T23:41:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:41, 28 June 2026
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	{{Short description\|Upcoming video game}}		{{Short description\|Upcoming video game}}
	{{Use mdy dates\|date=~~July~~ 2015}}		{{Use mdy dates\|date=August 2015}}
	{{Use American English\|date=~~July~~ 2015}}		{{Use American English\|date=August 2015}}
	{{Infobox video game		{{Infobox video game
	\| title = ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III		\| title = ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III
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	'''''ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III''''' is an upcoming [[first-person shooter]] video game developed by [[Air Studios]] and published by [[Mob Productions]]. It is planned for release on [[Microsoft Windows]], [[PlayStation 3]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Xbox One]].<ref name="Announcement">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> It is the sequel to ''[[ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare II]]'' (2012) and the third main installment in the ''Dark Warfare'' sub-series of the ''[[ShooterofIO]]'' franchise.<ref name="AirReturn">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Returns With Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-air-studios-return \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref>		'''''ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III''''' is an upcoming [[first-person shooter]] video game developed by [[Air Studios]] and published by [[Mob Productions]]. It is planned for release on [[Microsoft Windows]], [[PlayStation 3]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Xbox One]].<ref name="Announcement">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> It is the sequel to ''[[ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare II]]'' (2012) and the third main installment in the ''Dark Warfare'' sub-series of the ''[[ShooterofIO]]'' franchise.<ref name="AirReturn">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Returns With Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-air-studios-return \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref>

	The game features Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Modes">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Modes Confirmed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-modes \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The Campaign continues the covert operations style of ''Dark Warfare II'', following a renewed Task Force Bravo investigation into surviving Havel Program fragments and the hostile networks attempting to recover them. Multiplayer returns with class-based competitive play, darker map design, and a ~~heavier focus~~ on ~~tactical routes~~ and ~~information control~~. Zombies continues the Aetheris storyline following the events of ''The First Door'' and returns to gameplay closely based on ''Dark Warfare II'', with GobbleGums and Weapon Kits as its two major new systems.<ref name="ZombiesReveal">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=July 14, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Zombies Revealed \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-revealed \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=July 14, 2015}}</ref>		The game features Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Modes">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Modes Confirmed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-modes \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The Campaign continues the covert operations style of ''Dark Warfare II'', following a renewed Task Force Bravo investigation into surviving Havel Program fragments and the hostile networks attempting to recover them. Multiplayer returns with class-based competitive play, darker map design, and a revised skill-based matchmaking system intended to place stronger emphasis on connection quality and playlist stability.<ref name="IntelDrop02">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=August 11, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 02: Multiplayer SBMM and Enhancements \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-02-multiplayer \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=August 11, 2015}}</ref> Zombies continues the Aetheris storyline following the events of ''The First Door'' and returns to gameplay closely based on ''Dark Warfare II'', with GobbleGums and Weapon Kits as its two major new systems.<ref name="ZombiesReveal">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=July 14, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Zombies Revealed \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-revealed \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=July 14, 2015}}</ref>

	''Dark Warfare III'' is the first Air Studios-led ''ShooterofIO'' game developed on the SOI Engine, following the technology's use in ''[[ShooterofIO: Modern Ops 3]]'' and ''[[ShooterofIO: Guardians]]''.<ref name="Engine">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Uses SOI Engine \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-soi-engine \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> Air Studios later revealed the launch Zombies maps as "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility".<ref name="IntelDrop01">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=June 16, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 01: Zombies Lore \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-01-zombies-lore \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=June 16, 2015}}</ref>		''Dark Warfare III'' is the first Air Studios-led ''ShooterofIO'' game developed on the SOI Engine, following the technology's use in ''[[ShooterofIO: Modern Ops 3]]'' and ''[[ShooterofIO: Guardians]]''.<ref name="Engine">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Uses SOI Engine \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-soi-engine \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> Air Studios later revealed the launch Zombies maps as "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility".<ref name="IntelDrop01">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=June 16, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 01: Zombies Lore \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-01-zombies-lore \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=June 16, 2015}}</ref>
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	Class creation uses primary weapons, secondary weapons, tactical equipment, lethal equipment, perks, and scorestreaks. The perk system is designed around stealth, awareness, survivability, movement, and objective play. Scorestreaks return and reward eliminations, assists, captures, defends, reconnaissance actions, and support play. Air Studios stated that the system would continue rewarding objective actions heavily, but would avoid the larger battlefield-style streak pacing used in some ''Guardians'' maps.<ref name="MultiplayerTease" />		Class creation uses primary weapons, secondary weapons, tactical equipment, lethal equipment, perks, and scorestreaks. The perk system is designed around stealth, awareness, survivability, movement, and objective play. Scorestreaks return and reward eliminations, assists, captures, defends, reconnaissance actions, and support play. Air Studios stated that the system would continue rewarding objective actions heavily, but would avoid the larger battlefield-style streak pacing used in some ''Guardians'' maps.<ref name="MultiplayerTease" />

	Skill-based matchmaking returns in public playlists.<ref name="~~SBMM~~">{{cite web \|author=~~Mob Productions~~ \|date=~~May 12~~, 2015 \|title=~~Skill-Based Matchmaking Returns in~~ Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.~~mobproductions~~.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-~~skill-based~~-~~matchmaking~~ \|website=~~Mob Productions~~ \|access-date=~~May 12~~, 2015}}</ref> ~~Mob Productions stated that~~ the ~~matchmaking system would be adjusted again after criticism~~ of ~~both ''Modern Ops 3'~~' and ~~''Guardians''~~, ~~with connection quality~~ and ~~playlist population receiving~~ stronger ~~priority in casual playlists while competitive playlists use stricter skill balancing~~.		Skill-based matchmaking returns in public playlists, but with several changes from ''Modern Ops 3'' and ''Guardians''.<ref name="IntelDrop02" /> In standard public playlists, connection quality, region, latency, playlist population, and party size are prioritized before skill evaluation. Skill is still used to prevent extreme mismatches, but the matchmaking bands are broader than in ''Guardians'', allowing a wider range of opponents and reducing the feeling that every public match is strictly competitive. Competitive playlists use tighter skill evaluation and more restrictive team balancing.

			Lobby persistence is also increased. Public lobbies are more likely to keep the same player group together between matches unless players leave, change playlists, or experience connection issues. Air Studios stated that this was intended to restore some of the social flow and rivalry of earlier ''ShooterofIO'' multiplayer while still retaining protection against heavily unbalanced matches.<ref name="IntelDrop02" />

			Party matchmaking uses weighted party evaluation. Larger parties are more likely to be matched against other parties or against teams with stronger average performance, while solo players are less likely to be repeatedly placed against coordinated full parties. Team balancing also considers objective score, recent match results, party composition, and support actions rather than only eliminations and kill/death ratio.<ref name="IntelDrop02" />

			Air Studios announced several Multiplayer enhancements alongside the matchmaking changes. Spawn logic has been revised to account for enemy sightlines, recent deaths, active objectives, and explosive danger zones. Objective scoring has been increased in several modes to make captures, defends, plants, defuses, and escort actions more valuable. Hit detection, host migration, party stability, and end-of-match stat tracking are also being adjusted from the systems used in ''Guardians''.<ref name="MultiplayerEnhancements">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=August 11, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Multiplayer Enhancements Detailed \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-multiplayer-enhancements \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=August 11, 2015}}</ref>

			The mini-map and information systems are designed around the darker tactical style of the sub-series. Unsuppressed weapon fire briefly reveals a player's position, while suppressed weapons reduce visibility at the cost of range and damage consistency. Recon scorestreaks, sound cues, lighting, equipment placement, and map knowledge are intended to play a larger role than constant radar visibility. Several playlists also include reduced screen clutter, clearer objective markers, and stronger directional audio to support interior combat.<ref name="MultiplayerEnhancements" />

	===Zombies===		===Zombies===
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	The Zombies reveal clarified that Air Studios was not attempting to reinvent the mode after the divisive Zombies structure in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> Instead, the studio used ''Dark Warfare II'' as the baseline and limited the major systemic additions to GobbleGums and Weapon Kits. Air Studios described this as a deliberate restraint, arguing that Zombies needed stronger maps, atmosphere, story pacing, and quest design more than another full structural overhaul.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />		The Zombies reveal clarified that Air Studios was not attempting to reinvent the mode after the divisive Zombies structure in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> Instead, the studio used ''Dark Warfare II'' as the baseline and limited the major systemic additions to GobbleGums and Weapon Kits. Air Studios described this as a deliberate restraint, arguing that Zombies needed stronger maps, atmosphere, story pacing, and quest design more than another full structural overhaul.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />

			Air Studios Intel Drop 02 explained that Multiplayer matchmaking was being revised in response to player criticism of the strict public matchmaking in ''Modern Ops 3'' and ''Guardians''.<ref name="IntelDrop02" /> The studio did not remove skill-based matchmaking, but redesigned its casual playlist implementation to behave less like a ranked system. Air Studios stated that the goal was to preserve new-player protection and reduce severe lobby imbalance while allowing more varied public matches, more persistent lobbies, and better connection quality.<ref name="IntelDrop02" />

			The same update outlined several Multiplayer enhancements intended to support the tighter style of ''Dark Warfare III''.<ref name="MultiplayerEnhancements" /> Spawn logic, objective scoring, party balancing, host migration, hit detection, mini-map readability, and directional audio were all adjusted around smaller maps and interior combat. Air Studios framed these changes as part of the sub-series' return to contained, readable firefights rather than the broader combat spaces used in ''Guardians''.<ref name="MultiplayerEnhancements" />

	==Marketing and release==		==Marketing and release==
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	On July 14, 2015, Air Studios released the full Zombies reveal for ''Dark Warfare III''.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> The reveal confirmed that the mode would play similarly to ''Dark Warfare II'', returning to dedicated round-based maps, perk machines, weapon upgrades, traps, hidden quests, story radios, and map-specific main quests. It also confirmed GobbleGums and Weapon Kits as the only two major new Zombies systems at launch.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />		On July 14, 2015, Air Studios released the full Zombies reveal for ''Dark Warfare III''.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> The reveal confirmed that the mode would play similarly to ''Dark Warfare II'', returning to dedicated round-based maps, perk machines, weapon upgrades, traps, hidden quests, story radios, and map-specific main quests. It also confirmed GobbleGums and Weapon Kits as the only two major new Zombies systems at launch.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />

			On August 11, 2015, Air Studios released ''Air Studios Intel Drop 02: Multiplayer SBMM and Enhancements''.<ref name="IntelDrop02" /> The update detailed the revised skill-based matchmaking model, broader casual matchmaking bands, stronger connection priority, increased lobby persistence, party matchmaking changes, and several Multiplayer improvements related to spawns, objective scoring, host migration, hit detection, mini-map behavior, and audio readability.<ref name="MultiplayerEnhancements" />

	Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the first Intel Drop focused on the return of larger story-driven Zombies maps and the decision to vary narrative scale across the mode's map lineup.<ref name="IntelDropReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=June 17, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Intel Drop Reveals Launch Zombies Maps \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-intel-drop \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=June 17, 2015}}</ref>		Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the first Intel Drop focused on the return of larger story-driven Zombies maps and the decision to vary narrative scale across the mode's map lineup.<ref name="IntelDropReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=June 17, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Intel Drop Reveals Launch Zombies Maps \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-intel-drop \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=June 17, 2015}}</ref>

	Coverage of the Zombies reveal was positive among outlets that had criticized the Zombies mode in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=July 15, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies Returns to Dark Warfare II Roots \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-reveal \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=July 15, 2015}}</ref> Several previews praised Air Studios for focusing on the established ''Dark Warfare II'' formula instead of building another large structural experiment, while some noted that GobbleGums could become controversial if their strongest effects were difficult to earn or too disruptive to high-round play.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction" />		Coverage of the Zombies reveal was positive among outlets that had criticized the Zombies mode in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=July 15, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies Returns to Dark Warfare II Roots \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-reveal \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=July 15, 2015}}</ref> Several previews praised Air Studios for focusing on the established ''Dark Warfare II'' formula instead of building another large structural experiment, while some noted that GobbleGums could become controversial if their strongest effects were difficult to earn or too disruptive to high-round play.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction" />

			Coverage of Intel Drop 02 focused on Air Studios' attempt to address the franchise's growing matchmaking controversy.<ref name="IntelDrop02Reaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=August 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Revises SBMM After Guardians Backlash \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-sbmm-enhancements \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=August 12, 2015}}</ref> Several outlets described the update as a cautious compromise, noting that Air Studios had not abandoned skill-based matchmaking but was clearly trying to avoid the strict public-lobby feel that had frustrated players in the previous two games.<ref name="IntelDrop02Reaction" />

	==References==		==References==

Mob at 22:52, 28 June 2026

2026-06-28T22:52:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:52, 28 June 2026
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	{{Short description\|Upcoming video game}}		{{Short description\|Upcoming video game}}
	{{Use mdy dates\|date=~~June~~ 2015}}		{{Use mdy dates\|date=July 2015}}
	{{Use American English\|date=~~June~~ 2015}}		{{Use American English\|date=July 2015}}
	{{Infobox video game		{{Infobox video game
	\| title = ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III		\| title = ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III
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	'''''ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III''''' is an upcoming [[first-person shooter]] video game developed by [[Air Studios]] and published by [[Mob Productions]]. It is planned for release on [[Microsoft Windows]], [[PlayStation 3]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Xbox One]].<ref name="Announcement">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> It is the sequel to ''[[ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare II]]'' (2012) and the third main installment in the ''Dark Warfare'' sub-series of the ''[[ShooterofIO]]'' franchise.<ref name="AirReturn">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Returns With Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-air-studios-return \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref>		'''''ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III''''' is an upcoming [[first-person shooter]] video game developed by [[Air Studios]] and published by [[Mob Productions]]. It is planned for release on [[Microsoft Windows]], [[PlayStation 3]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Xbox One]].<ref name="Announcement">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/shooterofio-dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> It is the sequel to ''[[ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare II]]'' (2012) and the third main installment in the ''Dark Warfare'' sub-series of the ''[[ShooterofIO]]'' franchise.<ref name="AirReturn">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Returns With Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-air-studios-return \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref>

	The game features Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Modes">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Modes Confirmed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-modes \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The Campaign continues the covert operations style of ''Dark Warfare II'', following a renewed Task Force Bravo investigation into surviving Havel Program fragments and the hostile networks attempting to recover them. Multiplayer returns with class-based competitive play, darker map design, and a heavier focus on tactical routes and information control. Zombies continues the Aetheris storyline following the events of ''The First Door''.<ref name="~~ZombiesTease~~">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=~~May 12~~, 2015 \|title=~~Zombies Returns in~~ Dark Warfare III \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-~~tease~~ \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=~~May 12~~, 2015}}</ref>		The game features Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies.<ref name="Modes">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Modes Confirmed \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-modes \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> The Campaign continues the covert operations style of ''Dark Warfare II'', following a renewed Task Force Bravo investigation into surviving Havel Program fragments and the hostile networks attempting to recover them. Multiplayer returns with class-based competitive play, darker map design, and a heavier focus on tactical routes and information control. Zombies continues the Aetheris storyline following the events of ''The First Door'' and returns to gameplay closely based on ''Dark Warfare II'', with GobbleGums and Weapon Kits as its two major new systems.<ref name="ZombiesReveal">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=July 14, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Zombies Revealed \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-revealed \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=July 14, 2015}}</ref>

	''Dark Warfare III'' is the first Air Studios-led ''ShooterofIO'' game developed on the SOI Engine, following the technology's use in ''[[ShooterofIO: Modern Ops 3]]'' and ''[[ShooterofIO: Guardians]]''.<ref name="Engine">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Uses SOI Engine \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-soi-engine \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> Air Studios later revealed the launch Zombies maps as "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility"~~, and confirmed that a full Zombies gameplay deep dive would take place in July 2015~~.<ref name="IntelDrop01">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=June 16, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 01: Zombies Lore \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-01-zombies-lore \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=June 16, 2015}}</ref>		''Dark Warfare III'' is the first Air Studios-led ''ShooterofIO'' game developed on the SOI Engine, following the technology's use in ''[[ShooterofIO: Modern Ops 3]]'' and ''[[ShooterofIO: Guardians]]''.<ref name="Engine">{{cite web \|author=Mob Productions \|date=May 12, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Uses SOI Engine \|url=https://www.mobproductions.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-soi-engine \|website=Mob Productions \|access-date=May 12, 2015}}</ref> Air Studios later revealed the launch Zombies maps as "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility".<ref name="IntelDrop01">{{cite web \|author=Air Studios \|date=June 16, 2015 \|title=Air Studios Intel Drop 01: Zombies Lore \|url=https://www.airstudios.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-intel-drop-01-zombies-lore \|website=Air Studios \|access-date=June 16, 2015}}</ref>

	==Gameplay==		==Gameplay==
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	===Zombies===		===Zombies===
	Zombies returns in ''Dark Warfare III'' as a cooperative survival mode.<ref name="~~ZombiesTease~~" /> The mode ~~continues the Aetheris storyline from ''Dark Warfare'' and~~ ''Dark Warfare II''~~. Air Studios stated that Zombies would move away from~~ the ~~objective~~-~~arena structure used in ''Guardians''~~ and ~~return~~ to ~~larger dedicated Zombies maps~~.~~<ref name="ZombiesTease" />~~		Zombies returns in ''Dark Warfare III'' as a cooperative round-based survival mode.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> The mode is designed to play similarly to Zombies in ''Dark Warfare II'', with players surviving escalating rounds of undead enemies, opening areas of the map, buying wall weapons, using a Mystery Box-style weapon source, purchasing perks, upgrading weapons, activating traps, completing hidden objectives, and progressing through main quests tied to the Aetheris storyline.

	The ~~mode is planned to include round-based survival, map progression, perk machines, weapon upgrades, mystery box-style weapon acquisition, environmental traps, hidden objectives, story radios,~~ and ~~a main quest~~. The ~~SOI Engine~~ is ~~being used to support~~ larger ~~spaces~~, ~~denser lighting, improved enemy pathing, and more atmospheric~~ map ~~transitions than the Zombies maps in ''Dark Warfare II''~~.<ref name="~~ZombiesTease~~" />		Air Studios confirmed that Zombies would move away from the objective-arena structure used in ''Guardians'' and return to dedicated maps built specifically for Zombies.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> The launch maps are "The Hollow Observatory" and "Blackwater Facility". "The Hollow Observatory" is the larger story-focused launch map, while "Blackwater Facility" is a mid-sized map with a shorter but still narrative-focused role.<ref name="IntelDrop01" />

	~~Air Studios confirmed that the game will launch with~~ two ~~Zombies maps~~: ~~"The Hollow Observatory"~~ and ~~"Blackwater Facility"~~.<ref name="~~IntelDrop01~~" /> "The ~~Hollow Observatory"~~ is ~~described as~~ the ~~primary launch map~~ and ~~is planned~~ to ~~carry~~ the ~~larger opening~~ story ~~chapter~~ of ''Dark Warfare ~~III~~'' Zombies. "~~Blackwater Facility~~" is ~~described as a mid-sized map with a shorter but still story-focused role, designed~~ to ~~give launch~~ Zombies more ~~variety without making both maps equal in narrative scale~~.<ref name="~~IntelDrop01~~" />		The mode introduces two major new systems: GobbleGums and Weapon Kits.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> GobbleGums are single-use consumable abilities that players can equip before a match and activate from GobbleGum machines during gameplay. They provide temporary or situational effects, such as granting bonus points, improving movement for a short time, instantly repairing barricades, forcing a power-up spawn, helping revive teammates, or temporarily strengthening weapons. Players build a GobbleGum pack before starting a match, giving them a limited set of tactical options without replacing the core round-based survival loop.

			Weapon Kits are a progression system for Zombies weapons. As players use weapons in Zombies, they earn weapon experience that unlocks attachments, optics, cosmetic variants, and small handling options for use in future matches. Weapon Kits do not remove wall buys, the Mystery Box, or Pack-a-Punch-style upgrades; instead, they allow players to customize the base version of eligible weapons before entering a map. The system is intended to give Zombies long-term progression while keeping in-match weapon acquisition and upgrading central to the mode.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />

			Perk machines return and function similarly to previous ''Dark Warfare'' Zombies entries. Players purchase perks using points earned during the match, with each perk granting a specific survival or combat benefit. Weapon upgrade machines, environmental traps, power switches, buildable items, story radios, hidden symbols, and Easter egg-style main quests also return. Air Studios stated that most of the mode's structure was intentionally familiar, with the studio choosing to refine the ''Dark Warfare II'' formula rather than rebuild Zombies around another experimental system.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />

			The SOI Engine is used to support larger dedicated Zombies maps, denser lighting, improved enemy pathing, more detailed environmental storytelling, and smoother transitions between exterior and interior spaces.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> The mode supports solo play and cooperative squads, with enemy health, spawn pressure, and revive importance scaling around player count.

	==Synopsis==		==Synopsis==
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	For Zombies, Air Studios stated that it wanted ''Dark Warfare III'' to avoid the feeling that every map needed to carry the same dramatic weight.<ref name="IntelDrop01" /> The team planned the mode around varied story pacing, allowing some maps to function as shorter survival-focused chapters and others as longer narrative-heavy releases. The studio said this approach would help the Zombies season avoid exhausting every map with the same level of exposition while preserving the first map and final map as major story anchors.<ref name="IntelDrop01" />		For Zombies, Air Studios stated that it wanted ''Dark Warfare III'' to avoid the feeling that every map needed to carry the same dramatic weight.<ref name="IntelDrop01" /> The team planned the mode around varied story pacing, allowing some maps to function as shorter survival-focused chapters and others as longer narrative-heavy releases. The studio said this approach would help the Zombies season avoid exhausting every map with the same level of exposition while preserving the first map and final map as major story anchors.<ref name="IntelDrop01" />

			The Zombies reveal clarified that Air Studios was not attempting to reinvent the mode after the divisive Zombies structure in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> Instead, the studio used ''Dark Warfare II'' as the baseline and limited the major systemic additions to GobbleGums and Weapon Kits. Air Studios described this as a deliberate restraint, arguing that Zombies needed stronger maps, atmosphere, story pacing, and quest design more than another full structural overhaul.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />

	==Marketing and release==		==Marketing and release==
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	The announcement trailer opened with footage of a blackout spreading across a city as Task Force Bravo entered an underground facility beneath a civilian district. The trailer showed brief scenes of close-quarters combat, surveillance footage, storm-lit rooftops, a derelict offshore platform, and a data vault sealed behind multiple blast doors.<ref name="Trailer" /> It ended with a Zombies teaser showing a cracked observatory floor and a burned Aetherglass shard.<ref name="Trailer" />		The announcement trailer opened with footage of a blackout spreading across a city as Task Force Bravo entered an underground facility beneath a civilian district. The trailer showed brief scenes of close-quarters combat, surveillance footage, storm-lit rooftops, a derelict offshore platform, and a data vault sealed behind multiple blast doors.<ref name="Trailer" /> It ended with a Zombies teaser showing a cracked observatory floor and a burned Aetherglass shard.<ref name="Trailer" />

	On June 16, 2015, Air Studios released ''Air Studios Intel Drop 01: Zombies Lore''.<ref name="IntelDrop01" /> The update confirmed that the full Zombies ~~Deep Dive Reveal~~ would take place in July 2015, revealed the two launch Zombies map names, and explained that the Zombies storyline would use varied map-by-map story pacing. Air Studios stated that "The Hollow Observatory" would be the larger opening story map, while "Blackwater Facility" would serve as a mid-story-focused second launch map.<ref name="IntelDrop01" />		On June 16, 2015, Air Studios released ''Air Studios Intel Drop 01: Zombies Lore''.<ref name="IntelDrop01" /> The update confirmed that the full Zombies reveal would take place in July 2015, revealed the two launch Zombies map names, and explained that the Zombies storyline would use varied map-by-map story pacing. Air Studios stated that "The Hollow Observatory" would be the larger opening story map, while "Blackwater Facility" would serve as a mid-story-focused second launch map.<ref name="IntelDrop01" />

			On July 14, 2015, Air Studios released the full Zombies reveal for ''Dark Warfare III''.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" /> The reveal confirmed that the mode would play similarly to ''Dark Warfare II'', returning to dedicated round-based maps, perk machines, weapon upgrades, traps, hidden quests, story radios, and map-specific main quests. It also confirmed GobbleGums and Weapon Kits as the only two major new Zombies systems at launch.<ref name="ZombiesReveal" />

	Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the first Intel Drop focused on the return of larger story-driven Zombies maps and the decision to vary narrative scale across the mode's map lineup.<ref name="IntelDropReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=June 17, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Intel Drop Reveals Launch Zombies Maps \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-intel-drop \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=June 17, 2015}}</ref>		Early coverage of the announcement focused on Air Studios' return, the darker tone, the move away from ''Guardians''{{'}} Open World Combat structure, and the confirmation that Zombies would return to dedicated round-based maps.<ref name="AnnouncementReaction">{{cite web \|last=Russell \|first=Mark \|date=May 13, 2015 \|title=ShooterofIO: Dark Warfare III Announced by Air Studios \|url=https://www.consoleinsider.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-announced \|website=Console Insider \|access-date=May 13, 2015}}</ref> Coverage of the first Intel Drop focused on the return of larger story-driven Zombies maps and the decision to vary narrative scale across the mode's map lineup.<ref name="IntelDropReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=June 17, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Intel Drop Reveals Launch Zombies Maps \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-intel-drop \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=June 17, 2015}}</ref>

			Coverage of the Zombies reveal was positive among outlets that had criticized the Zombies mode in ''Guardians''.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction">{{cite web \|last=Martin \|first=Joel \|date=July 15, 2015 \|title=Dark Warfare III Zombies Returns to Dark Warfare II Roots \|url=https://www.gamefrontier.example/news/dark-warfare-iii-zombies-reveal \|website=Game Frontier \|access-date=July 15, 2015}}</ref> Several previews praised Air Studios for focusing on the established ''Dark Warfare II'' formula instead of building another large structural experiment, while some noted that GobbleGums could become controversial if their strongest effects were difficult to earn or too disruptive to high-round play.<ref name="ZombiesRevealReaction" />

	==References==		==References==

Mob at 22:49, 28 June 2026

2026-06-28T22:49:38Z

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