The STG-44, also known as the MP44, is one of the most recognizable rifles in the Call of Duty series. It has appeared in nearly every World War II title and even crossed into modern-era games. Known for its steady accuracy, moderate recoil, and balanced performance, the STG-44 remains one of the franchise’s most frequently featured weapons—second only to the M1911 pistol. Explore the Call of Duty STG-44, its history, stats, and appearances across every major title, from WWII classics to Modern Warfare III.
Table of Contents
Origins of the STG-44 in Call of Duty
The STG-44 first appeared in Call of Duty and United Offensive as a German assault rifle. It offered players a blend of power and control that made it effective at close to medium ranges. The weapon’s automatic fire mode and 30-round magazine made it versatile, serving as a middle ground between submachine guns and traditional rifles.
Its early versions featured moderate recoil, respectable damage, and a reload time around 2.4 seconds. Though ammunition was sometimes scarce in the campaign, the STG-44’s accuracy and manageable kick made it a valuable pickup during tougher missions.
Call of Duty 2 and Big Red One
In Call of Duty 2, the MP44 retained its identity as a reliable automatic rifle. It had a higher recoil than before but remained accurate in controlled bursts. The weapon was best used for medium-range engagements, rewarding players who fired in short bursts rather than holding the trigger.
In Big Red One, the MP44 returned with low recoil and a high rate of fire at 550 rounds per minute. It became a favorite among players for its power and stability, proving effective against both single targets and groups.
The MP44 in Call of Duty 3
By Call of Duty 3, the MP44 was recognized as the world’s first true assault rifle. It used a shortened 7.92mm cartridge and had a fire rate of about 500 rounds per minute. The rifle excelled at close and medium ranges, delivering consistent kills with a few well-placed shots above the waist.
In multiplayer, it was given to the Axis’ Heavy Assault class, balancing power and recoil. Though its reload was slower than that of submachine guns, its accuracy and stopping power made it a top-tier weapon for experienced players.
Call of Duty: World at War and Nazi Zombies
In World at War, the weapon officially adopted its correct name—STG-44. It was efficient in campaign missions like Ring of Steel and Heart of the Reich, offering stability and range with minimal recoil.
In multiplayer, it was unlocked at level 37 and became a popular all-purpose rifle. While its base damage was lower than other rifles, its full-auto capability made it a strong choice for players who valued consistency over burst damage.
The STG-44 also gained legendary status in Nazi Zombies mode. It could be bought from the wall or pulled from the Mystery Box, and when upgraded through the Pack-a-Punch machine, it transformed into the Spatz-447+. The upgrade doubled its magazine to 60 rounds and boosted its fire rate and damage. It remained a dependable weapon for mid-round survival, especially when players aimed for headshots.
The STG-44 in Modern Warfare and Remastered Editions
The MP44 appeared again in Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare as a late-game unlock. It had high damage but also strong recoil, making accuracy a challenge for unskilled players. Unlike other rifles, it had no attachments—no red dot sights, silencers, or grips. This design choice forced players to rely on skill and control.
Despite its drawbacks, the MP44 became a nostalgic favorite. Its distinct sound and reliable damage output gave it a unique feel in a game full of modern weapons. In Modern Warfare Remastered, the weapon’s textures and animations were updated, making it one of the most visually accurate recreations of the classic German rifle.
The STG-44 Across Later Games
Call of Duty: Black Ops and Black Ops II
The rifle returned in Black Ops and Black Ops II, mainly in Zombies mode. In Origins, it could be purchased off the wall for 1,400 points or obtained by digging it up using the Golden Shovel. When upgraded, it once again became the Spatz-447+, maintaining its tradition of improved damage and magazine size.
Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare
In Advanced Warfare, the STG-44 was added through Supply Drops. It had strong damage at close range and a moderate fire rate of 750 rounds per minute. Players could earn or unlock unique variants like Vampire, Relic, and Iron Claw, which changed the gun’s handling, accuracy, and fire rate. The quick reload speed and solid control made it competitive even among futuristic rifles.
Call of Duty: WWII
In WWII, the STG-44 became one of the most beginner-friendly weapons. It had low recoil, predictable spray, and decent accuracy, making it effective across almost all ranges. With attachments such as the Grip and Quickdraw Handle, the rifle became even easier to handle. It could also be upgraded into the STG770 in Zombies mode through the Ubersprengen machine.
Call of Duty: Vanguard
The rifle was available from the start in Vanguard. It was versatile and adaptable, offering multiple configurations through Gunsmith. Players could adjust barrels, magazines, and grips to match different playstyles. When upgraded in Zombies, it again transformed into the Spatz-447, maintaining its long-running legacy of power and reliability.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III
The Modern Warfare III version of the STG-44, introduced in Season Five, reimagined the weapon with modern customization options. It supports select-fire modes, larger magazines, and attachment flexibility. It can also be upgraded in Zombies mode to become the Timeless, its latest evolution. The weapon preserves its core traits—steady control, balanced fire rate, and strong performance across all ranges.
Strengths of the STG-44
- Balanced design: Moderate rate of fire, manageable recoil, and good accuracy.
- Reliable across ranges: Performs well from close to medium distance with controlled bursts.
- Historical authenticity: Reflects real-world design while fitting smoothly into multiple Call of Duty eras.
- Zombies durability: Consistently one of the most upgradable and reliable mid-round weapons.
Why the STG-44 Endures
The STG-44 represents the foundation of modern assault rifles, both in history and in the series. Its balance and accessibility make it an ideal benchmark for weapon design. Across decades of Call of Duty titles, it has evolved from a German WWII rifle to a customizable, cross-era weapon that still feels familiar.
Every appearance refines the same formula: a stable automatic rifle with consistent handling. Its long history and constant reinvention ensure that the STG-44 remains one of the most respected and recognizable firearms in Call of Duty.
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