Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (MW2) ships with a returning Third Person mode for multiplayer. Read on to learn how to play in Third Person, the basics of using Third Person, as well as some tips & tricks for utilizing the over-the-shoulder view effectively.

How to Play in Third Person

Check the Game Mode and Playlist

Third Person playlists will be marked as Third Person when browsing through the different multiplayer game modes in Modern Warfare 2. To play in Third Person, make sure you join these marked lobbies.

Note: Any playlist or game mode that does not have Third Person in its title will be Single Player Only. Keep this in mind if you want to experience this new mode for yourself.

Third Person Mode Overview

Over the Shoulder View Shoulder Swapping Perspective Zoom and ADS Same Control Layout as First Person Mode

Over the Shoulder View

Third Person mode plays exactly like how you'd expect it ー over-the-shoulder with the upper torso and gun of your Operator fully visible. Unlike in the First Person view, this over-the-shoulder mode allows for more visibility while moving around the map.

Shoulder Swapping

In addition to the over-the-shoulder view, Third Person mode also allows you to swap the shoulder view of your Operator. This can be done via a keybind for both controller and keyboard inputs, making it a seamless button press away during combat.

Perspective Zoom and ADS

Unlike other Third Person games, this mode applies weapon collision if you stick too close to surfaces. When too close to a wall, your perspective will zoom in slightly and a red X will appear in your reticle which means your gunsight is blocked by an object.

Another feature that applies perspective zoom is the ADS function. When you hit the ADS button, you will be returned to the First Person perspective to allow for more accuracy. Letting go of the ADS button will return you to Third Person immediately.

Same Control Layout as First Person Mode

Players looking to get into this mode need not worry as most of the buttons will be the same in Third Person mode as it is in First Person. Only the addition of the Shoulder Swapping function will affect your keyboard and controller layout while playing.

Third Person Tips & Tricks

Clear Corners in Third Person Survey the Area While Moving Pay Attention to Weapon Collision Use ADS for Long-Distance Fights

Clear Corners in Third Person

Unlike in First Person view where you have to clear corners by peeking, Third Person mode allows you to look around the corner without having to leave the safety of cover. Adjust your strategy accordingly since your enemies will also be using the same tactics.

Survey the Area While Moving

Third Person mode also offers a whole new level of map awareness compared to First Person mode, particularly for controller players. Take advantage of the ability to pan your camera around and gather intel you normally couldn't when moving while in First Person view.

Pay Attention to Weapon Collision

When shooting from cover, take your time and make sure the red X is no longer visible before you shoot. Otherwise, you'll be hitting drywall instead of the enemy in multiplayer.

Use ADS for Long-Distance Fights

For long-distance fights where your dynamic crosshair is too wide (indicating bullet spread and inaccuracy), go ahead and switch to the First Person ADS mode to win your duel or get your pick.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (MW2) Related Guides

Tips & Tricks

All Tips & Tricks