Massive DMZ overhaul leaked for Modern Warfare 4 ⇒ CODIntel

A massive leak has revealed major changes coming to DMZ mode in Modern Warfare 4. The mode is set for a full overhaul, with new progression systems, multiple factions, and dynamic map events that aim to make it a deeper, more standalone experience within the Call Of Duty universe.

New leaks reveal crafting, PvE-only mode and multiple maps for MW4’s DMZ

The next evolution of DMZ may be far bigger than anyone expected. According to multiple leaks and insiders, including YouTuber DK Dynamite and dataminer Crash, Infinity Ward’s upcoming Call of Duty title — currently operating under the codename Project Rex, and widely assumed to be Modern Warfare 4 — is planning a massive reinvention of the DMZ experience.

The new version of DMZ is reportedly being designed as a core third mode within the next Call of Duty, no longer tied to Warzone or free-to-play access. With multiple maps, a crafting system, optional PvE-only playlists and seasonal events, this could become Call of Duty’s most ambitious extraction shooter to date.

Here’s everything that has surfaced so far about what’s coming to DMZ in Modern warfare 4.

DMZ won’t be free-to-play in MW4, according to leaks

One of the biggest changes involves access. Unlike Modern Warfare 2, where DMZ was a free-to-play beta attached to Warzone, the next version of DMZ will reportedly be a fully paid mode included with MW4. Think of it like Zombies in previous Call of Duty games — a full, on-disk experience that stands on its own.

Sources say this change will allow Infinity Ward to commit more long-term resources and seasonal updates to DMZ, rather than seeing it phased out the way it was after MW3’s launch. While it may disappoint those who enjoyed the free model, paid support could help push DMZ into new territory with deeper systems and dedicated development.

New Tumen map rumored as core location

One of the main maps for the next version of DMZ is rumored to be set in Tumen, a region on the border of China and North Korea. This new location is expected to support multiplayer, Ground War, and DMZ, but not Warzone, which might be left out of MW4 entirely if internal performance goals are not met.

There are also conflicting rumors that Warzone might be paused or retired after Black Ops 6 if the return of Verdansk underperforms. If that happens, the DMZ mode may serve as the flagship large-scale experience for MW4.

For more details and original discussion, check out the source video from DK Dynamite.

Crafting system may evolve DMZ’s core gameplay loop

One of the biggest gameplay innovations rumored for DMZ 2.0 is crafting. According to DK Dynamite, Infinity Ward may adapt mechanics seen in the MW2 campaign — where players could collect items to build traps and tools — into the full DMZ mode.

Crafting would allow players to extract loot and create blueprints, utilities, or mission-critical gear between sessions. This would build on the bartering system introduced late in MW2’s DMZ and potentially make loadouts more strategic, persistent, and rewarding.

Imagine crafting a new camo, keycard or attachment based on items you found during a previous mission — this kind of system could push replayability much further.

PvE-only playlist may finally be happening

The next iteration of DMZ may split into two separate playlists:

PvE: A mode where players face off against AI-controlled enemies only.
PvEvP: The standard DMZ setup featuring bots and real enemy squads.

This is a major community request. Many players have asked for a way to explore, complete missions, or farm without being interrupted by aggressive PvP squads. The PvE mode could serve as a casual entry point to the extraction genre, letting players learn mechanics and work on challenges without full sweat lobbies.

Meanwhile, PvEvP will continue to offer tense extractions and high-stakes combat for players looking for risk and reward.

New features include HQ hub, dynamic events and multiple maps

Crash, a well-known dataminer, reported that the new DMZ will launch with four unique maps, plus a headquarters hub or shooting range. This could work similarly to the WWII Headquarters or Destiny’s Tower — a central place for loadouts, challenges, and social interactions.

The rumored content cycle includes major updates every two seasons, with new maps or game modes dropping regularly. Crash also mentioned mid-match survival events that could change the pace of gameplay. These dynamic challenges may include weather effects, live mission events or extraction races.

DMZ could finally receive the kind of content rhythm that keeps players engaged over long seasons, something MW2 struggled to deliver consistently.

Trio-based teams and mode-specific wipes return

DMZ in MW4 will continue to use the three-player squad format, with each map reportedly supporting up to 16 teams per match, depending on the mode. There’s hope for quads and solos later on, but trios appear to be the launch standard — mirroring previous versions and Spec Ops raids.

Wipes may also return, though with more structure. DK Dynamite pointed out that MW2 wiped DMZ too frequently, sometimes every 50 to 60 days. The new plan may involve wiping progress only when new maps launch, allowing players to build more meaningful long-term progression between resets.

Spec Ops and Raids may merge with DMZ systems

Another leak suggests that while Spec Ops won’t return as a standalone mode, its ideas may live on through Raid-style content inside DMZ. Mid-season Reloaded updates could deliver narrative missions or boss encounters that play like a mix of traditional Co-op and extraction gameplay.

This keeps DMZ fresh and competitive with other PvE shooters, and gives players more to do than just looting and exfil.

Could this be Call of Duty’s answer to Marathon and Tarkov?

Infinity Ward seems to be treating DMZ as a serious pillar in the franchise. With Bungie’s Marathon expected to launch in 2025 and Escape From Tarkov remaining the genre leader, this rebooted DMZ could be Activision’s best shot at owning a chunk of the extraction shooter space.

If these leaks prove true, MW4’s DMZ will have everything fans have asked for — from multiple maps, crafting systems, custom loadouts, and PvE-only options to seasonal raid events and deep rewards. You can also check out some Amazing leaks,news, and updates at CODIntel.