Upgrade Guide: Staff of Ice in Black Ops 6 Zombies

The Staff of Ice stands out as an intriguing Wonder Weapon in *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* Zombies. While its base form may seem underwhelming, its upgraded version becomes indispensable for tackling high rounds and completing main quest Easter eggs. Here's a detailed guide on how to upgrade the Staff of Ice in *Black Ops 6* Zombies.

Prerequisites for Upgrading the Staff of Ice in Black Ops 6 Zombies

Before you can upgrade the Staff of Ice on The Tomb map in *Black Ops 6* Zombies, you need to meet two main prerequisites. First, you must obtain the Staff of Ice itself. You can get this Wonder Weapon from the Mystery Box or by assembling it using three specific parts scattered around the map.

The upgrade process heavily involves the Dark Aether Nexus. To advance in the upgrade quest, ensure you unlock the Door to Nowhere early on to access the Dark Aether.

How To Upgrade the Staff of Ice in Black Ops 6 Zombies

Step 1: Freeze Dark Aether Crystals

The first step in upgrading the Staff of Ice involves freezing the Dark Aether Crystals found within the lanterns in the underground sections of The Tomb. These lanterns are distinguishable by their black frames and glowing purple fire.

You must use the Staff of Ice to freeze three Dark Aether Crystals in quick succession. To enhance your chances of success, equip Stamin-Up and/or PHD Flopper with the Tribologist Minor Augment, as these perks significantly boost your movement speed.

The route you choose is crucial, as is strategically waiting a few rounds to optimize the lantern spawns. The most efficient path starts at the tomb area, then moves to the Shrine of the Hierophants, and finally to the entrance of the Subterranean Temple. Ensure one of the lanterns shown above is active, as the one near Quick Revive is too distant to reach in time. Upon successfully freezing the crystals, you'll hear a quote from Archibald. Then, proceed to the Dark Aether Nexus.

Step 2: Floating Rocks in the Dark Aether Nexus

After completing the first step, search for three specific floating rocks in the Dark Aether Nexus's sky, each marked with a glowing purple Rune displaying a unique symbol. These symbols may vary each game, so take note of them.

Aim the Staff of Ice at each Rune and shoot it. A successful hit will be confirmed by a hitmarker, causing the rock to descend, making it easier to identify the Rune. Consider using a sniper rifle or a weapon with a high-zoom scope to better spot these symbols. You can shoot the rocks in any order, but all three must be hit with the Staff of Ice.

Step 3: Rune Symbols Puzzle

Once the second step is completed, navigate the Dark Aether Nexus until you find a portal replaced by a stone wall. Return to the corresponding area in the main map to find a wall adorned with several glowing Runic icons. Identify and shoot the three Runes that match the symbols you noted on the floating rocks.

The portal will reopen regardless of whether you choose the correct symbols. However, selecting incorrect symbols will transport you to an incorrect location within the Dark Aether Nexus, dropping you from mid-air. Multiple failures may require you to wait for the next round before the stone wall reappears.

If you shoot the correct symbols, you'll find yourself on a floating rock upon re-entering the Dark Aether Nexus. A purple orb will be visible in front of you. Interact with it to proceed.

Step 4: Soul Chest Orb Escort

After interacting with the orb, it will begin to move. Follow it closely and kill zombies nearby to power its movement. The purple trail from the zombies will flow into the orb, propelling it forward. Keep up the aggressive play to guide the orb to the central structure of the Dark Aether Nexus.

Once the orb reaches and settles within the structure, a small purple portal will appear. Interact with it to upgrade your Staff of Ice to Ull's Arrow.

What Does the Upgraded Ice Staff Do in Black Ops 6 Zombies? Answered

Ull's Arrow, the upgraded version of the Staff of Ice, boasts powerful abilities akin to its classic counterpart from the Origins map in *Black Ops 2* and *3*. It features a devastating charge attack with high area-of-effect damage and an alternate fire mode that can revive downed teammates.

That's the complete guide on how to upgrade the Staff of Ice in *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* Zombies.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.