Black Ops 7 Season 3 launches on April 2, 2026, and Call of Duty fans are in for a massive content refresh. From nine new multiplayer maps to the long-awaited return of Free Run, this update brings some of the biggest additions since launch. We’ve compiled everything you need to know about release times, new weapons, map changes, and more—so you can drop in ready on day one.
Black Ops 7 Season 3 Release Date and Time
Black Ops 7 Season 3 launches on Wednesday, April 2, 2026 at these times:
- 9:00 AM PT (Pacific Time)
- 12:00 PM ET (Eastern Time)
- 5:00 PM BST (British Summer Time)
Expect maintenance to begin 30–60 minutes prior to launch. This is the third major content season since Black Ops 7’s release in November 2025. For a full breakdown of all BO7 content, check our Black Ops 7 complete guide.
All New Maps in Black Ops 7 Season 3
Season 3 brings nine total maps—five new designs and four fan-favorite remasters. This is the largest map drop since launch.
| Map Name | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beacon | New | Medium-sized multiplayer arena with vertical gameplay |
| Abyss | New | Compact urban environment for fast-paced engagements |
| Summit | Remaster | Classic Black Ops original—mountaintop facility returns |
| Plaza | Remaster | Black Ops 2 favorite—urban shopping district reworked |
| Gridlock | Remaster | Black Ops 4 tactical arena—intense close-quarters combat |
| Hacienda | Remaster | Black Ops 6 legacy—sprawling compound with multiple sightlines |
Beacon and Abyss are available at Season 3 launch. For weapon recommendations on these maps, see our Black Ops 7 weapons tier list.
New Weapons in Season 3 — MK35 ISR and VST
Season 3 introduces six new weapons, with two confirmed at launch via the Battle Pass.
MK35 ISR Assault Rifle
The MK35 ISR is a fully automatic assault rifle with low recoil, excellent accuracy, and moderate damage. It excels at mid-to-long range and is immediately accessible via the Season 3 Battle Pass. For a complete loadout breakdown, see our MK35 ISR loadout guide.
VST Submachine Gun
The VST is a lightweight SMG prioritizing mobility and handling speed. Perfect for aggressive rushers and close-quarters combat. Also available in the Season 3 Battle Pass at launch.
Free Run Returns — What to Know
Free Run is making a triumphant return to Call of Duty for the first time in over a decade. This movement-focused parkour mode arrives during Season 3 Reloaded (the mid-season update). Players race against the clock to complete parkour courses using Black Ops 7’s Omnimovement system. It’s not combat-focused—it’s pure movement mastery and challenge completion.
Verdansk and Black Ops Royale Updates
The Verdansk map receives a major overhaul with a new POI: the Launch Pad. This adds fresh rotation opportunities and new loot zones. Endgame mode goes free-to-play during Season 3, allowing all players to experience it. For tips on Black Ops Royale’s Avalon map, check our Black Ops Royale strategy guide.
Season 3 Battle Pass Overview
- Launch weapons: MK35 ISR and VST included for pass holders
- Operator skins: New Black Ops-themed characters unlock at tier intervals
- Weapon blueprints: Themed variants for existing guns
- Double XP tokens: Accelerate weapon leveling and battle pass progression
The Battle Pass costs 1,000 COD Points (approximately $9.99 USD). Check our best loadouts guide for updated weapon recommendations.
How to Prepare for Season 3 Launch
- Download the update before launch day to avoid queues (expect 40–60 GB)
- Secure your Battle Pass to unlock the MK35 ISR and VST immediately
- Study new maps—watch Beacon and Abyss guides so you’re not learning blind
- Stock up on double XP tokens for faster weapon leveling
- Plan your first loadout—our MK35 ISR loadout guide is ready to go
FAQ: Black Ops 7 Season 3
When does Black Ops 7 Season 3 launch?
Season 3 launches on April 2, 2026, at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET / 5 PM BST. Servers go down for maintenance 30–60 minutes beforehand.
How many new maps are in Season 3?
Nine maps total: two new launch maps (Beacon and Abyss), plus four remastered classics (Summit, Plaza, Gridlock, Hacienda) rolling out through the season, plus three additional new maps mid-season.
What new weapons arrive at Season 3 launch?
Two weapons debut at launch: the MK35 ISR assault rifle and VST submachine gun, both available in the Season 3 Battle Pass. Four additional weapons release throughout the season.
Is Free Run free-to-play?
Free Run arrives in Season 3 Reloaded (mid-season) and is available to all players with Season 3 active. Endgame mode also goes free-to-play for a limited time during Season 3.
How much does the Season 3 Battle Pass cost?
The Battle Pass costs 1,000 COD Points (approximately $9.99 USD). Free-to-play players receive limited cosmetics and two free weapons later in the season.
Season 3 Sets Up Black Ops 7 for Its Best Chapter Yet
Black Ops 7 Season 3 is shaping up to be a landmark update. Nine maps, six new weapons, the return of Free Run, and Verdansk overhauls show that Treyarch is committed to keeping the game fresh. Head to our Black Ops 7 pillar guide for deeper strategy, and check the tier list and MK35 ISR loadout article to hit the ground running on April 2.