MW3 best maps ranked – our favorites in the game

Looking for the best MW3 maps? You’ve come to the right place. There are so many good and memorable maps in Modern Warfare 3, and since the majority of these maps are from the original Modern Warfare 2 (2009) game, many fans will still prefer the same set of maps in 2023. 

Newcomers to the Call of Duty franchise will now have their first experience with these remastered maps. And although all these maps have undergone visual enhancements, we’ve ranked the best MW3 maps that will give you an enhanced gameplay experience as well as the best chances of surviving a match. Before we dive in, consider playing MW3 zombies solo to test your skill. And if you’re eager to test your might, here’s how to destroy the mercenary convoy in MW3 Zombies.

MW3 best maps ranked

There are 16 total maps in Modern Warfare 3, and while most players are fine with playing on just about any map, some players prefer to play certain modes on particular maps. For instance, if you’re looking to take on other players in War mode, Afghan is a fine destination to start. 

And with map voting now available once again in MW3, it’s up to players to decide the map they want to play in. So after spending hours in the game, below are the best MW3 maps:

Estate

While Estate boasts a picturesque setting with a cabin atop a hill amidst fields and waterfront features, the team that controls the cabin is likely to win or lose a match. This means that matches in this Estate are likely to end very quickly. 

Afghan

This classic map is set in a remote mountainous region of Afghanistan and features a variety of different environments, including rocky cliffs, lush forests, and barren wastelands. The map is designed for both infantry and vehicle combat with plenty of opportunities for snipers. Afghan is a tough map if you prefer to take down enemies at close range but great for long range. 

Terminal

Loved by many, Terminal is relatively small and compact, making it ideal for fast-paced close-quarters combat. The main area of the map is the terminal’s central concourse, which is a large open area with plenty of cover and hiding spots. There are also several smaller areas, such as the baggage claim area and the security checkpoint. In fact, some players still regard it as the best CoD map ever. 

Favela

This map is set in a densely populated favela in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and features a variety of different environments, including narrow alleyways, crumbling buildings, and rooftops. The map is designed for both infantry, close-quarters and rooftop combat with a fantastic setting. 

Highrise

Similar to Afghan, Highrise is often dubbed a Sniper’s paradise as it is set in a towering skyscraper within a bustling metropolis. The map is designed for close-quarters combat and features a variety of different environments, including office spaces, stairwells, and rooftop areas. Highrise is also ideal for fast-paced, action-packed gameplay. And although Snipers are good, Assault Rifles is an all-around weapon for use in Highrise. 

Rust

Set in a scrapyard in the middle of the desert, Rust is designed for close-quarters combat and features a variety of different environments, including shipping containers, junkyard debris, and abandoned vehicles. It’s a beloved map that fans were excited to see make a return in 2023. The map is relatively small in size, making it ideal for fast-paced, action-packed gameplay. 

Invasion

Unlike other maps, Invasion is set in a war-torn part of Afghanistan. The map is designed for both infantry and vehicle combat and features a variety of different environments, including ruined buildings, streets, and alleyways. There’s also a mix of outdoor spaces and indoor shops that cater to various playstyles. 

So these are the best MW3 maps we have for you and it’s worth adding that these maps can feel quite different with the game modes. If you’re already used to playing a particular game mode within a certain map, attempting to switch to a different map might take you some time to become familiar with the new map.