Hey there, zombie slayers! If you're as hyped as I am about the upcoming Black Ops 7 Zombies launch, you're in for a treat. Treyarch just dropped a massive blog detailing everything from lore-packed POIs to game-changing mechanics like Cursed Mode and relics. But what does this mean for you as a player? Let's break it all down so you're fully prepared when Ashes of the Damned drops on November 14th!

• The Lore Behind the POIs in Ashes of the Damned
• Cursed Mode: A Game-Changer for Zombies Fans
• New Gameplay Mechanics and Unlocks
• Gobblegums and DeadOps Arcade 4
• FAQ
• Conclusion

↖ The Lore Behind the POIs in Ashes of the Damned

The new Points of Interest (POIs) in Ashes of the Damned are packed with lore and intrigue. Here's a quick rundown:

• Janice Towers Plaza: Built in 1989 and pulled into the Dark Ether in 1991, this research stronghold ties directly to the events of Reckoning from Black Ops 6. 
• Vandor Farm: A rural settlement from 1920 that mysteriously vanished into the Dark Ether in 1986.
• Blackwater Lake: A frozen lake cabin from 1940, engulfed by the Dark Ether in the 1950s. 
• Ashwood: A frontier town built in 1820, arriving in the Dark Ether in 1865—the same year the American Civil War ended. Could this historical connection explain the antagonist's Civil War-inspired attire?
• Exit 115: A roadside stop built between 1950-1980, swallowed by the Dark Ether in 1989.
• Zarya Cosmodrome: A Soviet-era launch facility from 1960, pulled into the Dark Ether in 1968.

Each location offers unique challenges and lore to uncover, but watch out for the deadly fog that shrouds certain areas. Hidden horrors await those brave enough to venture through it.

↖ Cursed Mode: A Game-Changer for Zombies Fans

The newest addition to Black Ops 7 Zombies is Cursed Mode, and it's not for the faint-hearted. Here's what you need to know:

Relics and Their Role

Cursed Mode introduces relics, game-changing debuffs designed to increase difficulty. There are nine relics available in Ashes of the Damned, and the more relics you activate, the higher your tier bar climbs—from Tier 1 to Tier 3. Completing the map in higher tiers unlocks exclusive rewards, so if you're looking for a real challenge, this mode is for you.

Why It Matters

This mode essentially allows players to customize their difficulty level while rewarding skill and strategy. If you've ever wanted to test your limits in Zombies, Cursed Mode is your chance to do so.

↖ New Gameplay Mechanics and Unlocks

Weapons and Loadouts

At launch, Black Ops 7 Zombies will feature 30 weapons—28 ranged and 2 melee. For fans of Warzone, Zombies content will be integrated into Season 1 later this year. 

Augment System Changes

Unlike Black Ops 6, augment research is now locked behind player level progression. You'll need to reach level 11 to unlock this feature, but don't worry—all previously unlocked augments from Black Ops 6 will carry forward.

Perks and Ammo Mods

Returning favorites like Deadwire and Cryofreeze join new additions like Fireworks, a reworked mod from Black Ops 3. Perks also include the new Wisp T, adding even more variety to your loadout.

↖ Gobblegums and DeadOps Arcade 4

New Gobblegums

Get ready for some fresh Gobblegums with unique effects:

• Aftertaste: Keep all perks after being revived.
• Reququipment: Equipment slots refill over time.
• Power Vacuum: Increased power-up spawn rates.
• Round Off: Prevent rounds from advancing for two rounds.
• Armor Getton: Instantly grants armor.
• Gift Card: Provides $30,000 for Slayer Mart purchases.

DeadOps Arcade 4

DeadOps Arcade 4 features 80 levels, new weapons like the Wonderwaffe DG2, and shared progression with round-based Zombies. Casual mode offers a shorter, more accessible experience, while normal mode is a brutal test of endurance. Plus, the new Slayer Mart Hub lets you buy upgrades to enhance your run.

↖ FAQ

What is the release date for Ashes of the Damned?

The main quest will be available starting November 14th at 10:00 AM Pacific Time.

Are augments from Black Ops 6 usable in Black Ops 7?

Yes! All previously unlocked augments will carry forward, but you'll need to reach level 11 to research new ones.

What rewards are tied to Cursed Mode tiers?

Completing Ashes of the Damned in Tier 1, 2, or 3 will unlock exclusive rewards, though details on these rewards haven't been fully revealed.

What's new in DeadOps Arcade 4?

DeadOps Arcade 4 features 80 levels, new weapons, vehicles, and arenas, plus shared progression with Zombies modes.

↖ Conclusion

Black Ops 7 Zombies is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious entries in the franchise. Whether you're diving into the lore-rich POIs, testing your skills in Cursed Mode, or exploring the revamped DeadOps Arcade, there's something here for every Zombies fan. So gear up, strategize, and get ready to face the horrors of the Dark Ether. Let us know—what feature are you most excited about?