Warzone 2 is currently Activision’s main priority but it is still possible to return to Warzone 1 and Caldera if you know how.

If you’re more of a fan of the original Warzone than Warzone 2.0, you’re not alone. Right now, Activision’s newer Battle Royale is still being heavily criticized by fans, and its player count is dropping fast.

Despite Raven Software making adjustments to appease some of the biggest complaints, there’s no denying that Warzone 2 is fundamentally a very different game from the original BR title.

Thankfully, there’s a way to play Warzone 1 again for all those that prefer the way it feels.

Warzone Caldera

Can You Still Play Warzone 1 in 2023?

Yes, the original Call of Duty Warzone is still playable as ‘Warzone Caldera’ in 2023. However, Caldera is the only map available to play, and the only remaining playlists are Quads and Solos.

Also, Activision is clearly pushing players towards the newer Battle Royale, filling Warzone with ads for Warzone 2.

Rebirth Island and Fortune’s Keep, as well as all Resurgence game modes, seem to have been removed from Warzone 1 for good.

Thankfully, there’s a way to continue playing Rebirth Island and even Verdansk right now!

How to Play Warzone 1 Again

  • First, players need to find Call of Duty Modern Warfare (2019) on their store of choice.
  • Download the application, which should be around 70-90 GB in size.
  • On Battle.net, players can choose ‘Modify Install’ and check ‘Warzone Caldera’ to just install the Battle Royale portion of the game.
How to Install Warzone 1 Caldera
  • Once installed, load it up and choose ‘Warzone Caldera from the bottom of the Modern Warfare menu on the right.
  • Ignore the ‘Play Warzone 2.0’ pop-up, instead choosing ‘Download Warzone Caldera’
  • Then, you’re free to drop into Caldera once again!
How to Download Warzone 1 in 2023

In both the Modern Warfare 2019 title screen and the Warzone Caldera lobby, players will see numerous ads for MW2 & Warzone 2.

However, the game is exactly as you remember it, complete with all your weapons, loadouts, and unlocks. There are even Daily Challenges to complete, but the game will likely never see another update.

Is Warzone 1 Shutting Down?

No, Activision has currently announced no plans to shut down Warzone 1. Despite the older Battle Royale title no longer receiving content updates, servers are still live for Warzone Caldera.

In fact, right now, a lot of content creators are returning to Warzone 1 after finding themselves unsatisfied with the publisher’s handling of its sequel. But unfortunately, the game’s best days are behind it, with no Rebirth Island, Fortune’s Keep, or Verdansk to be found.

However, Activision has hinted at the possibility that Verdansk could come to Warzone 2 in the future, if fans demand it enough.