There’s a lot to be said about Modern Warfare 3 – some gamers fell in love at first sight, while others find it difficult to see past the flaws.

With the introduction of new game modes like Kill Confirmed, Survival mode, and Hardcore Domination, there’s plenty to keep players occupied. Kill Confirmed encourages teamwork, supports a run-and-gun style of play, and (with occasional exceptions) eliminates camping. This mode is a refreshing new change on the traditional Team Deathmatch. Survival mode is MW3’s version of Zombies: endless waves of enemies that include regular soldiers, dogs, choppers, and those pesky juggernauts. Weapon upgrades, explosives, and air support can all be purchased and add a fun new dimension to typical gameplay. Whether alone or with a buddy, Survival mode offers a satisfying break from the multiplayer experience.

The improved Killstreak program is one of the game’s most redeeming qualities. Finally, CoD offers multiple changes that have gamers rejoicing. Not only can killstreaks be activated in any order, but they can now be chosen according to class, making it easier to tailor them according to certain playing styles. Points from capturing objectives or destroying enemy killstreaks are now included in the player’s streak, encouraging teamwork during goal-based games. Many gamers are particularly fond of the Assault strike package, because killstreaks restart once they are used up within the same life. For others, however, the Support package is the optimal choice, as kills and points carry over even through death.

Cons

While Infinity Ward has -- for the most part -- reduced spawn-trapping, MW3’s spawn system still has major flaws. The method for respawning at times seems completely random: a player may find himself on the opposite side of the map from his teammates, directly beside an enemy, or even right on top of an enemy claymore. Or sometimes, all three. It seems that by attempting to fix one problem, more of them have sprouted up. This leads me to wonder: will CoD ever get it right?

The issue of over-powered shotguns is a famous one throughout the CoD series. Currently, the general consensus is that shotgun range is too long, and the damage is too great. In hardcore mode, a one-shot kill is acceptable. In core, however, this raises some eyebrows and evokes a few swear words. The Striker with Range proficiency appears to be the particular favorite, and combined with extreme conditioning and steady aim is absolutely devastating. As we saw with the SPAS-12 and Model 1887, it seems likely that a patch is well on the way.

From aggravating spawns to agonizingly-long pre-game lobbies, a botched Theater system, and Challenges, gameplay and graphics nearly identical to Modern Warfare 2, there’s a lot to complain about. Still, this doesn’t seem to stop gamers – from CoD veterans to noobs – from spending countless hours racking up kills.

What does your "Pros and Cons" list consist of, and what are your thoughts on MW3 overall? Love it, hate it, or somewhere in between?  Let us know your opinion! Leave a comment and tell us what you think.