Longtime fans of the classic round-based Zombies mode in Call of Duty are undoubtedly enjoying its return in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. With Perks, Pack-A-Punch machines, and intricate Easter eggs, the first two maps offer a wealth of content to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the mode, one particular element has left many players puzzled: Augments. The game offers little explanation, leading many to overlook this crucial mechanic. However, ignoring Augments can significantly hinder your survival and success. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how Augments function and which ones you should prioritize unlocking in Black Ops 6.
The jugger-nog augments in Black Ops 6.Augment options for Jugger-Nog perk.
Understanding Augments in Black Ops 6
Augments are passive perks that enhance your Perks, Field Upgrades, or Ammo Mods. Each of these categories has six potential Augments – three minor and three major – offering various benefits. However, before you can begin utilizing Augments, there are two key prerequisites.
Firstly, the Augment system remains locked until you reach level 11. While this milestone shouldn’t take too long to achieve, it’s important to be aware of its unlock requirement and start utilizing the system early. Once unlocked, access the Augment section within the Zombies menu. Here, you can select an Augment for a Perk, Ammo Mod, or Field Upgrade to begin research. Research progresses linearly, following a predetermined path that alternates between unlocking minor and major Augments.
Secondly, research progression isn’t time-based but rather tied to the XP earned during Zombies matches. Any XP gained while playing contributes to the research of your currently selected Augment. Upon reaching the required XP threshold, you’ll unlock the next Augment in the sequence for that specific upgrade. Remember, playing without an Augment selected for research won’t unlock any new ones, so ensure you always have something actively researching in the menu.
Before each match, you can equip one minor and one major Augment for a single Perk, Ammo Mod, and Field Upgrade. This limitation means you cannot have all minor or all major Augments active simultaneously, nor can you apply Augments to every eligible Perk, Ammo Mod, or Field Upgrade. Strategic selection is crucial for maximizing your effectiveness.
The augment screen in Black Ops 6.The Augment selection screen in Black Ops 6.
Prioritizing Augment Research: The Best Early Choices
While the ideal Augment combination depends on your individual playstyle, certain Augments offer more universal benefits and are recommended for early research.
Jugger-Nog Augment Recommendations
Major Augments:
- Probiotic: Provides a slight boost to your maximum health.
- Turtle Shell: Armor completely negates damage taken from behind.
- Reactive Armor: Stuns enemies when an armor plate breaks.
Minor Augments:
- Retaliation: Increases damage output when at low health.
- Hardened Plates: Enhances the effectiveness of armor plates.
- Durable Plates: Increases the durability of armor plates.
Cryo Freeze Augment Recommendations
Major Augments:
- Big Game: Extends the slowing effect of Cryo Freeze to elite enemies.
- Ice Cloud: Enemies killed while frozen have a chance to leave behind a slowing ice cloud.
- Frozen Stiff: Completely freezes enemies in place.
Minor Augments:
- Extension: Increases the duration of the slow effect.
- Freezer Burn: Increases damage dealt to frozen enemies.
- Liquid Nitrogen: Increases the chance of inflicting the freeze status.
Healing Aura Augment Recommendations
Major Augments:
- Resilience: Reduces health regeneration delay and increases healing rate for all affected players.
- Enduring Radiance: Healing effects persist briefly after leaving the area of effect.
- Persistence: Allows players to retain their Perks on their bleed-out bar upon revival.
Minor Augments:
- Inner Strength: Grants a small damage buff to affected players.
- Protection: Slightly reduces damage taken by affected players.
- Stoic Presence: Upon activation, stuns Special and Elite enemies and knocks down normal enemies.
Conclusion: Augmenting Your Zombie Survival Strategy
Understanding and utilizing Augments is paramount to surviving and thriving in Black Ops 6 Zombies. While personal preference plays a role, focusing on the Augments outlined above will provide a strong foundation for success. Experiment with different combinations to find what best complements your playstyle and team composition. By strategically selecting and researching Augments, you can significantly enhance your survivability, damage output, and overall effectiveness against the undead hordes.
