Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare vs Call of Duty: World at War
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The game also pioneered multiplayer with robust online modes, customizable load‑outs, and a progression system that set the standard for future shooters. Its blend of tactical stealth, fast‑paced firefights, and strategic teamwork keeps players engaged for countless hours.
Set during the final years of World War II, Call of Duty: World at War delivers a brutal, cinematic experience across the Pacific and Eastern Front. Players command squads in iconic battles, from the beaches of Iwo Jima to the streets of Stalingrad, with visceral gunplay and realistic environments. The game also introduced robust multiplayer modes, including co‑operative campaigns and split‑screen deathmatches, establishing a foundation for future titles in the franchise.
- Iconic campaign with memorable set‑pieces
- Deep multiplayer customization and progression
- Highly responsive controls and polished shooting mechanics
- Strong community and lasting competitive scene
- Engaging historical storyline
- Robust co‑op and split‑screen options
- Varied multiplayer modes
- Strong weapon authenticity
- Limited map variety compared to modern titles
- No native cross‑play between all platforms
- Aging graphics may feel dated on newer hardware
- Graphics dated by modern standards
- Limited map variety compared to later titles
- Occasional AI pathing issues
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataCall of Duty 4: Modern Warfare is the safer default choice with a higher critic score (88/100), offering a competitive multiplayer focus and deep class progression, whereas World at War targets WWII enthusiasts with authentic weaponry and the debut of Nazi Zombies.
Key differences
- •Setting and Theme: World at War is a historical WWII shooter, while Call of Duty 4 focuses on modern combat and stealth.
- •Multiplayer Features: Call of Duty 4 features killstreak rewards, class customization, and skill-based matchmaking, while World at War includes a hidden 'Nazi Zombies' mode and 4-player local split-screen on consoles.
- •Critic Scores: Call of Duty 4 scored 88/100, while World at War scored 80/100.
- •Developer: World at War was developed by Treyarch, whereas Call of Duty 4 was developed by Infinity Ward.
- •Age Rating: Call of Duty 4 is rated PEGI 16 and ESRB M, while World at War is rated PEGI 18 and ESRB M.
Gameplay & fun factor
Call of Duty 4 has a higher critic score of 88/100 compared to World at War's 80/100, backed by responsive controls.
Platform availability
Cross-generation support lets World at War play on PS3 and Xbox 360, while platform details for Modern Warfare are not specified.
Price & value
Both games share the exact same MSRP of $59.99 as paid, one-time purchases.
Multiplayer / co-op
Both support single player, multiplayer, co-operative, and split screen, though World at War uniquely adds 4-player local split-screen and Nazi Zombies.
Content & replayability
Call of Duty 4 offers deep multiplayer customization, progression unlocks, and a dedicated co-operative mode.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both share an ESRB M age rating, but World at War features AI-controlled squadmates that provide tactical support in campaign missions.
Graphics & performance
Call of Duty 4 features an engine supporting high-resolution textures and realistic lighting, while World at War has dated graphics.
Choose Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare if…
FPS fans seeking a competitive multiplayer experience with killstreaks, class customization, and a higher critic score.
Choose Call of Duty: World at War if…
WWII enthusiasts wanting authentic historical weaponry, squadmate support, and the hidden Nazi Zombies mode.
Common questions
How much do both games cost?
Both games have an MSRP of $59.99 as a paid, one-time purchase.
Which game has a better critical reception?
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare has a critic score of 88/100, while Call of Duty: World at War has a critic score of 80/100.
Do both games feature co-op modes?
Yes, World at War lets two players experience the entire campaign together and includes Nazi Zombies, while Modern Warfare offers a dedicated co-operative mode in split-screen or online.