The question of who the “main character” is in Black Ops 3 Zombies is surprisingly complex. Unlike the campaign mode where “The Player” is the protagonist, Zombies doesn’t offer a single, clear-cut answer. However, if we’re looking at the figure who drives the narrative forward, the puppet master pulling the strings behind the scenes, then the undeniable answer is Dr. Edward Richtofen. He is a complex character whose schemes and manipulations are the engine that propels the entire Zombies storyline, especially throughout Black Ops 3.
While you directly control the original crew—Richtofen, Dempsey, Nikolai, and Takeo—throughout most maps, Richtofen is the one with a plan, a goal, and a disturbingly detailed understanding of the unfolding events. The other three are often pawns in his game, whether they realize it or not. His quest to control the Apothicons, secure the Summoning Key, and ultimately save (or potentially doom) the multiverse is what defines the Black Ops 3 Zombies experience. He is the catalyst, the instigator, and the architect of the undead drama. His actions have the greatest impact on the narrative and the fate of all involved.
The Original Crew: A Collective Protagonist?
While Richtofen often takes the spotlight, it’s essential to acknowledge the other members of the original crew: Tank Dempsey, Nikolai Belinski, and Takeo Masaki. These characters are inseparable from the Zombies narrative. Each of them has their own development, contributing significantly to the overall story and creating the dynamic that players have come to love. They all play an important role in shaping events, and so, in a way, the four work together to achieve their common goals.
Black Ops 3’s Narrative Focus
Black Ops 3 marks a crucial point where the narrative became incredibly intricate, involving alternate dimensions, ancient evils, and complex relationships. With the introduction of the Shadows of Evil crew and the expanded lore surrounding Dr. Monty and the Keepers, the canvas of the Zombies universe became vast and intricate. While Richtofen remains a pivotal figure, he shares the stage with other characters who impact the narrative significantly.
Richtofen’s Influence Across the Multiverse
Richtofen’s influence extends far beyond a single map or even a single dimension. The overarching narrative of Black Ops 3 and subsequent installments revolves around his efforts to correct the fractured multiverse and prevent the rise of the Apothicons, the parasitic creatures that seek to consume all realities. His actions in one timeline ripple across others, making him a central figure in the fight for survival.
Challenging the Hero Archetype
Richtofen is no conventional hero. He is often morally ambiguous, driven by his own goals, and willing to sacrifice others for what he believes is the greater good. This complexity is what makes him such a compelling character. He challenges the traditional hero archetype, forcing players to question his motives and the true nature of his intentions. Is he truly saving the world, or is he merely manipulating events to achieve his own ends?
Who is the Main Character in Black Ops 3 Zombies? The Verdict.
In conclusion, while the Zombies narrative is populated with a cast of compelling characters, Dr. Edward Richtofen stands out as the de facto main character of Black Ops 3 Zombies, due to his crucial role in the unfolding events. His actions, motivations, and overarching plan are central to the storyline, making him the undeniable driving force behind the epic struggle against the undead. He is a complex and morally ambiguous figure, whose influence extends across the entire Zombies multiverse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about Black Ops 3 Zombies, providing additional valuable information for the readers.
1. Who controls the zombies in Black Ops 3?
In the Zombies storyline, the entity that controls the zombies is often referred to as the Demonic Announcer. This entity provides assistance to the characters through various in-game features such as wallbuys, the Mystery Box, Perk-a-Cola Machines, Power-Ups, and Gobblegum Machines. The Announcer acts as a neutral guide. However, the Zombies themselves originate from different sources, including the Apothicons and experimentation.
2. What is the ultimate goal of Black Ops 3 Zombies?
The goal of the Zombies mode is survival against endless hordes of zombies. Each map has its own Easter Egg, which consists of complex steps and challenges that players can complete to advance the storyline and unlock special rewards. The ultimate goal is to uncover the mysteries behind the Zombies narrative and, depending on the map, save the world or achieve a specific objective.
3. How many zombie maps are in Black Ops 3?
Black Ops 3 features a total of 14 Zombie maps, including the original base game maps and those included in the DLC packs and the Zombie Chronicles expansion.
4. Does the Black Ops 3 Zombies story ever end?
Yes, the Black Ops 3 Zombies storyline culminates in the map Revelations, where the characters confront the Apothicons and attempt to resolve the fractured multiverse. However, the ending is open to interpretation and sets the stage for future installments in the Zombies franchise. The storyline has been continued in the newer Call of Duty games that included the Zombies game mode.
5. What is the significance of the Summoning Key in Black Ops 3 Zombies?
The Summoning Key is a powerful artifact that is central to the Zombies storyline in Black Ops 3. It can capture souls and transfer beings across dimensions. Richtofen is trying to use the Summoning Key to control the universe.
6. Who is Dr. Monty, and what role does he play in the Black Ops 3 Zombies story?
Dr. Monty is a mysterious figure in the Zombies storyline who claims to be the creator of the universe and free will. He resides in a dimension known as the House and guides the characters on their quest to defeat the Apothicons. However, it’s revealed that Monty is not as benevolent as he seems, as he has been corrupted by the Dark Aether.
7. What are the Apothicons, and why are they a threat?
The Apothicons are parasitic creatures from another dimension that seek to consume and corrupt all realities. They are the main antagonists of the Black Ops 3 Zombies storyline, and their defeat is crucial to saving the multiverse.
8. What is the Dark Aether?
The Dark Aether is an alternate dimension that serves as a source of power and corruption in the Zombies storyline. It is connected to the Apothicons and influences many of the events that transpire in the Zombies universe.
9. Are the original four characters (Richtofen, Dempsey, Nikolai, and Takeo) the same across all maps?
No, the original four characters exist in multiple versions and timelines throughout the Zombies storyline. The versions encountered in Black Ops 3 are often from alternate realities or have undergone changes due to the events of the story.
10. What are Gobblegums, and how do they affect gameplay?
Gobblegums are consumable items that provide temporary perks and abilities to players in Zombies mode. They can be acquired through the Gobblegum Machine and add an element of strategy and variety to gameplay.
11. What is the Mystery Box, and how does it work?
The Mystery Box is a random weapon dispenser that appears in Zombies maps. Players can spend points to acquire a random weapon from the box, offering a chance to obtain powerful weapons but also risking getting undesirable ones.
12. What is the best way to improve in Black Ops 3 Zombies?
Improving in Black Ops 3 Zombies involves learning the maps, mastering weapon strategies, understanding the perks and power-ups, and coordinating with teammates. Practicing on different maps, experimenting with different strategies, and watching gameplay videos can also help players improve their skills and knowledge. The website GB Times has articles on gbtimes.com which may also help you improve your knowledge.
By understanding the intricate details of the Black Ops 3 Zombies storyline and gameplay mechanics, players can fully immerse themselves in the undead experience and strive to become the ultimate zombie survivors.
