Call Of Duty Ghosts Free Fall Multiplayer Map Availability And Access

The Free Fall dynamic multiplayer map for Call of Duty: Ghosts was originally a limited-time bonus available through specific purchase or pre-order channels but was later released as a free offering for all players. According to official support documentation, the map became available at no cost following a game update on March 4, 2014, across all available platforms. This update automatically loaded the map onto users' systems, eliminating the need for a separate download. Players can access the map simply by launching Call of Duty: Ghosts and playing multiplayer; the map is included in the rotation for all Standard, Hardcore, and Clan vs. Clan game modes.

Initially, the Free Fall map was restricted to individuals who purchased the Season Pass, the Hardened Edition, or the Prestige Edition of the game. It was also available to those who pre-ordered Call of Duty: Ghosts through specific retailers such as GameStop or GAME, or via digital pre-orders. The transition to a free release in March 2014 expanded access to the entire player base. The Wii U version specifically became available via eShop download on March 4, 2014, free of charge.

The map itself is described as a small multiplayer environment set within a shattered skyscraper on the brink of collapse. The dynamic setting features sideways staircases, elevator shafts situated along the ground, and former windows that serve as a glass floor high above the city streets. This environment facilitates frenetic close-quarters combat that shifts as the match progresses.

Overview of Call of Duty: Ghosts and Multiplayer Features

Call of Duty: Ghosts is a installment in the Call of Duty franchise, presenting a narrative where players fight to survive in a crippled nation against a technologically superior global power. The game introduces significant changes to the multiplayer component, allowing players to customize their soldiers and squads for the first time. This customization layer adds depth to the competitive experience, which is further enhanced by the inclusion of dynamic maps like Free Fall.

Map Design and Dynamics

The Free Fall map is distinct due to its verticality and shifting terrain. The visual and gameplay elements are designed to simulate a collapsing structure: * Vertical Orientation: Sideways staircases and elevator shafts create unique sightlines and movement paths that differ from traditional horizontal map layouts. * Environmental Hazards: The crumbling architecture implies a dynamic environment, although specific gameplay mechanics regarding structural collapse are not detailed in the source material. * Close-Quarters Focus: The map description emphasizes frenetic close-quarters action, suggesting that long-range weaponry may be less effective compared to shotguns or assault rifles optimized for tight spaces.

Access and Platform Availability

The release of Free Fall as a free bonus was consistent across major gaming platforms. The support article confirms that the March 4th update applied to "all available platforms." This includes the Wii U, which received the map as a free eShop download on the same date. The automatic loading of the map means that eligible players do not need to manually search for or download the content; it is integrated directly into the game files via the update patch.

Historical Availability and Eligibility

Understanding the timeline of the Free Fall map's availability is essential for distinguishing between the initial promotional period and the current standard offering.

Pre-Order and Edition Bonuses

During the initial launch window of Call of Duty: Ghosts, the Free Fall map served as a "pre-order incentive." Eligibility was determined by: * Retailer Pre-Orders: Customers who pre-ordered the game at participating retailers like GameStop or GAME received the code for the map. * Digital Pre-Orders: Pre-ordering a digital copy of the game through platforms such as Xbox Live or PlayStation Network also granted access. * Special Editions: Purchasing the Hardened Edition or Prestige Edition of the game included the map as part of the bundle. Additionally, buying the Season Pass provided access to the map along with other planned DLC content.

Transition to Free Release

The shift in availability occurred on March 4, 2014. At this time, the developers removed the paywall and pre-order requirement, making the map accessible to anyone who owned the base game. This move is common in the gaming industry to maintain player engagement and ensure that the community is not fragmented by paid map packs. The support documentation explicitly states that the map is now "free to all."

How to Play the Free Fall Map

For players possessing the game, accessing the map is straightforward. Since the map is automatically included in the game files via the mandatory update, the process involves standard multiplayer navigation.

1. Update the Game: Ensure that Call of Duty: Ghosts has been updated to the version released on or after March 4, 2014. This is usually automatic for users with an internet connection.
2. Launch Multiplayer: Start the game and enter the Multiplayer mode.
3. Map Rotation: Free Fall is integrated into the standard map rotation. There is no specific playlist required to play the map; it will appear randomly alongside other maps in Standard, Hardcore, and Clan vs. Clan lobbies.

Technical Requirements and Installation

The source material indicates that no specific download is required for the map itself if the game has been updated. The map is "automatically loaded" as part of the game update. This suggests that the data for the map is included in the general title update patch for Call of Duty: Ghosts. Players should ensure they have sufficient storage space for the game update, but no separate transaction or download queue for the map is necessary.

Conclusion

The Free Fall dynamic multiplayer map for Call of Duty: Ghosts transitioned from a limited pre-order and special edition bonus to a free, universally available map in March 2014. It is accessible to all players who have updated their game, with no additional download required. The map features a unique, collapsing skyscraper environment designed for close-quarters combat and is integrated into the standard multiplayer map rotation across all platforms.

Sources

1. Activision Support - Call of Duty: Ghosts Free Fall Map FAQ
2. Call of Duty Wiki - Free Fall
3. Xbox Store - Call of Duty: Ghosts Free Fall Dynamic Bonus Map
4. Call of Duty: Ghosts Official Website