Infinity Ward Drops COD4 Maps, Local Blogger Fails Classes

The new Call Of Duty 4 maps were released this weekend to much fanfare and many complaints. I wasn't even able to download the maps until last night because of several different error codes. Several threads found on the XBL forum mirrored my own problems, including such gems as: Why can't I buy microsoft points?, Microsoft points not downloading, and best of all Xbox live doesn't allow me to update my Call of Duty 4. Apparently some of these kids tried for two straight hours to download this stuff, and after finally getting my hands on 'em, it's hard to blame them.

Of the four maps released (Chinatown, Creek, Broadcast, and Killhouse), I've so far played the former three. (Killhouse is a one-on-one map available via the 'Cage Match' matchmaking option.)


Chinatown is a close quarters, urban shoot-out. Check those windows because almost all buildings are two stories and many firefights are window to window. Picture District, only now with the ability to enter all buildings.







Broadcast draws off it's older compatriot's maps by getting sliced out of the single player mode and dropped onto our gaming plates. This large map features an extensive indoor battle ground filled with twisting hallways, and a substantial outdoor section including the rooftop of the main building, and a bombed out building on the opposite side of the map.






Creek is a massive walk in the park. Two towns separated by a huge ravine and connected by a cave set the stage for this surprisingly balanced snipe fest. Although I did experience one, several respawn streak of getting my face sniped off, all other experiences on this map have been heartily satisfying.






Finally, Killhouse. This map is, well...an enigma. I haven't been tossed into it yet, though I played cage match and the variety map pack match-a-making for an hour today. I can't help you here just yet.







The new maps are thought out very well -- more so than the originals -- and refresh the excitement I first felt when playing COD4. You'll find some interesting angles (A broken plank in an outhouse anyone?) more intense fire fights, and clearly thought out, well balanced level design. Oh yeah, and it'll set you back $12.50 (ouch), but any battle hardened COD4 vet should know it's money well spent for more great content from Infinity Ward. (Even though, seriously, it should be free. But that's for another piece entirely.)

(Pictures via GameSpot)