What is Ground War in MW2? Everything you need to know

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is more than just an awesome single-player experience. There are a ton of other modes to enjoy – many of which cater to multiplayer gameplay.

One such mode is Ground War. Here, we go through exactly what it is, and how it differs from other modes such as Invasion in Modern Warfare 2.

What is Ground War in Modern Warfare 2

Ground War is perhaps the closet thing Modern Warfare 2 has to EA’s Battlefield. Namely, large-scale battles on huge maps, catering to a large number of players and vehicles. To play it, you’ll need to have cross-play enabled.

It’s not the biggest mode in the game (That’s Invasion mode, which we come on to later), but it’s the largest human-focused multiplayer mode in Modern Warfare 2, so holds a lot of appeal.

NOW READ: Modern Warfare 2 Invasion mode explained

How Ground War works

Teams are made up of 32 players, and must fight to capture control points. As you control these key footholds, your team will gain points. The first to 250 wins the game.

Ground War is perfect for those looking to gain XP fast, as there are a number of tips and tricks (which we detail below) that can be leveraged. The large-scale battles give you plenty of opportunities for more kills over traditional death match modes.

It’s faster paced than Warzone 2 – so is perfect for those who want a lot of action very quickly. While not as epic as Battlefield, Ground War battles are intense and strike a good balance between strategy and casual play.

There are currently five Ground War maps in Modern Warfare 2, which can also be found on Warzone 2’s Al Mazrah map. These are:

• Sariff Bay
• Al Bagra Fortress
• Sa’id
• Santa Sena
• Zarqwa Hydroelectric

Ground War is larger than another similar mode in the game called Invasion. The latter differs from the former as it caters to 20 human players on each team, as well as 20 AI teammates. This blends both PVP and AI to create the largest-scale battles in Modern Warfare 2’s multiplayer.

To succeed in Ground War will take a completely different approach to Team Deathmatch and other high-intensity modes. You’ll need to make use of vehicles and high ground.

For the snipers among you, Ground War will hold a ton of appeal as there are usually plenty of camping spots – especially in the Sariff Bay and Sa’id maps.

MW2 Ground War tips

Loadout is key

The right loadout is absolutely key in Ground War. You can check out detailed loadout guides from our in house expert, Jack Bye, right here. The M4 is a decent all rounder, especially when paired with a mid-long range optic. You can choose which optic is best for you in this handy round up here.

If there’s ever a time to add a PILA to your loadout, Ground War could well be it. Given the sheer amount of vehicles on offer, and the fact enemies are usually bunched in groups, the PILA has the right stage to shine and earn tons of XP.

Harvest XP fast with this trick

Secondly, if you want to get XP – specifically weapon XP there’s a very simple trick. Simply equip the weapon you want to level up, the jump in a tank and kill as many enemy soldiers as you can.

This works particular well on Invasion Mode (as there are AI solders who are more predictable), but is an effective strategy in Ground War also.

Don’t spawn in vehicles

While its tempting to get back into the fight straight away, chances are any vehicle has a huge target on it – especially if they’re mid battle.

It’s far better to spawn further away from the action and anticipate where the next attack will come from. For example, if the fourth capture point is about to be taken, head to the last point and set up defensive positions with your team mates.

If you do want to get into the action quickly, opt for a ATV – which gives you a decent amount of cover, and speed. You will be vulnerable to mines and explosives, though.

Ground War in MW2 FAQ

Is Ground War good?

Modern Warfare 2’s Ground War mode is a lot of fun for those who prefer large scale battles and want a break from Death Match modes. The vast battlegrounds and large number of players make this mode a lot of fun.

Why can’t I play Ground War in Modern Warfare 2?

You need cross-play enabled to play Ground War in Modern Warfare 2.