MW4 DMZ first-day checklist: what to do in your first hour

Before you load in

1. Install the required update. It went out on all platforms before Early Access. DMZ is online only, so a console player also needs the platform’s online subscription.
2. PC players: turn on TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. The game will not run without them. Activision keeps a pinned help card on the official Trello board.
3. Check the server status page if matchmaking stalls. Activision recommends a wired connection.

Your first hour, in order

1. Pick your Active Duty Operators. You start with two slots (three with the Vault Edition). Each Operator keeps their own Traits and Dog Tag rank, so think of them as separate characters.
2. Open the Orders tablet and accept the first DMZ Order. Orders explain the mode, tell the story and unlock more of the FOB. Finishing the second Order opens the Boss Board, which is why most guides tell you to clear the first two straight away. See DMZ Orders.
3. Look at the Firing Range. It reaches past 100 metres, which is handy for checking a sight before you pay for it.
4. Deploy light. Take a cheap weapon and whatever armor you start with. Your armor slot fills with plates automatically when you drop in.
5. Pick a Low-threat area for your first drop. Imjin Farmland, Songdo Wharf and Mirae General Hospital are rated Low. Check the Hajin map first.
6. Loot everything that is not nailed down. Ordinary loot turns into Resources for the 3D Printer, and Resources do not take Stash space.
7. Leave early. When the radiation timer first runs out, head for green smoke. Your first goal is to extract, not to win fights.
8. Read the After Action Report. It shows what you earned and grades your run.

After your first extract

• At DMZ level 2 the 3D Printer opens with six starter recipes: Bandage, Medkit, 1-Plate and 2-Plate Armor Vests, and Small and Medium Backpacks. A Bandage only needs 15 Synthetics and 15 Chemicals. See the 3D Printer guide.
• The Vendor opens at level 5 and the Gunsmith at level 10.
• Spend your first Trait Point as soon as your Operator earns it. Use the Trait Builder to plan ahead, because picks cannot be undone.

Useful habits from day one

• Talk to other squads on proximity chat before shooting. The Ping Wheel can offer a truce.
• Keep one Medkit for after a Tourniquet. A Tourniquet gets you up, but only a Medkit fixes the wound.
• Do not pick up a Lieutenant’s Dog Tag Case unless you are ready to fight. Carrying it shows everyone where you are.