Call Of Duty Black Ops III Gets Cheap Multiplayer-Only Version On Steam

Activision has just released a version of Black Ops III that many Call of Duty fans have likely wanted for some time: one that only has the multiplayer mode. Available now on PC via Steam, the Multiplayer Starter Kit leaves out all the non-multiplayer essentials, like that boring campaign story, and lets players just focus on gunning down human opponents. Plus, it's only $15. However, there's still a number of multiplayer features taken off the table for that low price.

Not only will buyers not have access to the campaign, but the zombie mode, a popular Black Ops staple, is also left out. Players will be able to enjoy public ranked multiplayer matches, as well as the Arena, Free Run, and Theater game modes. The weapon-editing features in Paintshop and Gunsmith are also available.

There are a few more specifics not included that potential buyers should be aware of. Players won't be able to participate in custom multiplayer matches, access mod tools and content when it's released, and their level will be capped at 55, as they won't be able to use the Prestige option.

Some may think of this Multiplayer Starter Kit as little more than a paid demo, but it still includes a majority of Black Ops III's multiplayer component, such as maps and weapons. Interestingly, this version will only be available on Steam until February 29th, so grab it now if it sounds appealing. Those that purchase will have the option to upgrade to the full game release for $45, which is the standard price minus the $15 already spent.

Activision basically released multiplayer-only versions of Black Ops III on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, as the last-gen consoles had too many technical limitations to handle the campaign. There's no word on the Multiplayer Starter Kit coming to platforms other than Steam at this point, but if it attracts enough buyers who then opt not to upgrade to the full version, it would be interesting to see if future Call of Duty titles see separate releases of multi- and single-player modes.

SOURCE Steam