Does CoD DMZ have real players?

Yes, Call of Duty‘s new open-world DMZ mode features both AI enemies and real players contending for objectives and precious contraband loot. While lethal NPCs populate the map, you‘ll need to watch out for human-controlled operator squads as well in this intense hybrid survival experience.

DMZ Lobby and Squad Details

DMZ matches players together in squads of 1-3 players. The standard lobby size allows for up to 22 of these 3-player teams, meaning 66 maximum real players per match. The later-added Ashika Island map has a reduced capacity of only 18 players across 6 squads.

You can disable squad fill to play DMZ "solo" without teammates backing you up. This lone wolf approach is extremely challenging but allows you to keep all extracted contraband for yourself.

Objectives and Gameplay Loop

The core gameplay loop of DMZ involves:

• Infiltrating one of the large-scale maps
• Pursuing faction missions, objectives and side activities
• Securing valuable weapon contraband, gear, and cash
• Extracting successfully via helicopter to keep your accumulated loot

If you die, you lose everything except insured weapons (which take real-world time to retrieve). This creates tense, high-stakes raids where a single mistake could cost you hours of progress.

DMZ vs Extraction Shooters

DMZ shares much DNA with hardcore tactical military simulations like Escape from Tarkov. Both are session-based extraction shooters blending PvE and PvP:

• Permadeath punishes mistakes
• Contraband weapons and gear raise the stakes
• Enemy players dynamically clash over contested objectives

Some key differences:

• DMZ features side activities like AI faction missions
• Tarkov has in-depth weapon modding and hideout progression
• DMZ lacks Tarkov‘s advanced health systems

But overall, fans of the emerging immersive extraction genre will find a lot to love in DMZ‘s dynamic open world.

Competing Against Real Players

While lethal AI occupy areas of interest, watching out for dangerous human-controlled Operators adds another complex layer of risk/reward evaluation. Some tips when engaging real players:

• Assume any noise or footsteps in the distance is an enemy squad until confirmed otherwise. Don‘t let your guard down!
• Travel off main roads whenever possible to reduce visibility. Use cover when crossing open areas.
• Equip a suppressor to avoid broadcasting your position from gunfire.
• Pack a lethal sniper/marksman rifle as your insured weapon for reach and precision at a distance.

Looting For Profit

Extracting contraband weapons unlocks them permanently across multiplayer and DMZ. Some of the most valuable finds include:

With $250k for a full backpack, grabbing multiples to sell off in siguiente Grupo‘s Buy Stations or to stash away adds up quickly.

Expert Tips From DMZ Content Creators

Top Call of Duty pros and streamers have sunk extensive hours into mastering DMZ‘s systems. Here are some key pieces of advice:

"The TAQ-56 [assault rifle] shreds at mid-range and has an amazing 60 round mag with almost no recoil. It‘s my go-to primary for fighting squads." – Stodeh

"Playing DMZ solo is ridiculously hard. With no chance for revive, the endless AI waves overwhelm your plates and ammo quickly." – NICKMERCS

"farming AI early nets quick cash to buy solid guns and gear for extracting challenges and PvP later." – Swagg

Key Data on the Modern Warfare 2 Spinoff Experience

Whether playing solo or coordinating with a squad, DMZ offers Call of Duty fans a new high-stakes, open-world twist for taking down lethal AI and competing with rival Operators. No session plays out the same, and with valuable contraband always on the line every tense extraction sortie raises the stakes.