Black Ops 7 Zombies introduces an exciting new mode called Cursed Mode, bringing back the classic Zombies experience that longtime fans have been craving. This hardcore mode strips away modern conveniences and challenges players with a more traditional, unforgiving gameplay style. If you’re wondering how to access this mode and what makes it special, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Black Ops 7 Zombies Cursed Mode, including how to unlock it, what Relics are, and what rewards await those brave enough to take on the challenge.
Key Takeaways
- Cursed Mode is a classic-style Zombies experience in Black Ops 7 that removes modern mechanics
- To unlock Cursed Mode, any player worldwide must complete the Ashes of the Damned main quest first
- Relics are powerful artifacts that add challenging modifiers but offer special rewards
- Players start with only a pistol, no minimap, and use the classic point system
- Rewards include exclusive Weapon Blueprints, Calling Cards, and other cosmetic items
- The mode features increased difficulty with limited Perk-a-Colas and no Ammo Caches
- Once unlocked globally, all players can access Cursed Mode immediately
What is Cursed Mode in Black Ops 7 Zombies?
Cursed Mode in Black Ops 7 Zombies is essentially a throwback to the classic Zombies experience that made the mode famous in the first place. Unlike the modern Zombies mode with all its conveniences, Cursed Mode takes players back to basics with a much more challenging gameplay style.
When you start a Cursed Mode match, you’ll begin with just a pistol in hand, no fancy loadouts, no custom weapons, and no minimap to guide you. The mode uses a classic point system inspired by Black Ops 3, making every decision count as you progress through rounds.
The primary objective in Cursed Mode goes beyond simple survival. You’ll be searching for Relics, which are powerful artifacts hidden throughout the map. These Relics are themed around totems from Black Ops Zombies history and each comes with unique conditions for access. But be warned, these conditions can be quite unforgiving!
Cursed Mode represents the hardcore Zombies experience that many veteran players have been asking for. It removes the training wheels and forces players to rely on skill, strategy, and teamwork to survive. This mode is perfect for those who find modern Zombies too easy or want to relive the glory days of classic Zombies gameplay.
How to Unlock Cursed Mode in Black Ops 7 Zombies?
Unlocking Cursed Mode isn’t as simple as selecting it from a menu at launch. Treyarch has implemented a unique unlocking mechanism that requires community effort. Here’s exactly how it works:
The Cursed Mode becomes available to all players worldwide as soon as any single player or team completes the Ashes of the Damned main quest in Black Ops 7 Zombies. This means someone, anyone in the world, needs to finish the main Easter Egg quest in standard mode first.
This unlocking mechanism is similar to how raids work in games like Destiny 2. The good news is that dedicated Zombies players typically complete these Easter Eggs within hours of launch, so you won’t have to wait long to access Cursed Mode.
Here’s what you need to know about the unlocking process:
- Complete the Main Quest: Someone must finish the Ashes of the Damned Easter Egg in standard mode
- Global Unlock: Once completed, Cursed Mode becomes available for everyone worldwide
- No Personal Requirement: You don’t need to complete the quest yourself to access the mode
- Directed Mode: After launch, a “Directed Mode” will be added that provides step-by-step Easter Egg instructions
While you could try to be the first player to unlock Cursed Mode for the community, the odds are quite challenging. Most players will simply wait for the global unlock and then jump into the action.
The main quest in Ashes of the Damned is expected to be quite complex, involving multiple steps, puzzle-solving, and coordination. If you’re planning to attempt the Easter Egg, make sure you have a good team and plenty of time set aside.
Understanding Relics in Cursed Mode
Relics are the cornerstone of Cursed Mode in Black Ops 7 Zombies. These mysterious artifacts are hidden throughout the map and represent the primary collectible and progression system in this mode.
Each Relic in Cursed Mode is themed around a totem from Black Ops Zombies history, connecting the new mode to the rich legacy of the franchise. However, these aren’t just simple collectibles, each Relic comes with unique conditions for access and significant gameplay implications.
Here’s what you need to know about Relics:
- Unique Conditions: Every Relic has specific requirements that must be met to obtain it
- Debuff Modifiers: When you unlock a Relic, it applies a debuff that makes the game more challenging
- Stacking Effects: Multiple Relics can be active simultaneously, creating increasingly difficult gameplay
- Progressive Difficulty: As you collect more Relics, the mode becomes progressively harder
- Special Rewards: Overcoming these challenges unlocks exclusive rewards
Some examples of Relic effects include:
- Limiting players to only four Perk-a-Colas instead of the usual amount
- Removing Ammo Caches from the map, forcing more careful ammunition management
- Increasing zombie health or speed
- Reducing player damage output
- Limiting available weapons or equipment
The developers have been tight-lipped about exactly what all the Relics look like and what their specific effects are, but we know they’re designed to create a more challenging and rewarding experience for dedicated players.
Cursed Mode vs Regular Zombies Mode
Understanding the differences between Cursed Mode and regular Zombies mode is crucial for knowing what to expect. Here’s a comprehensive comparison:
| Feature | Regular Zombies Mode | Cursed Mode |
| Starting Equipment | Custom loadouts available | Only a pistol |
| Minimap | Available with full features | No minimap |
| Point System | Modern system with various ways to earn points | Classic Black Ops 3-style system |
| Difficulty | Balanced for casual and experienced players | Hardcore, unforgiving challenge |
| Relics | Not available | Core gameplay element |
| Perk-a-Colas | No limit on number | Limited to 4 with Relic modifiers |
| Ammo Caches | Available throughout map | Removed with Relic modifiers |
| Rewards | Standard progression | Exclusive Weapon Blueprints and Calling Cards |
The classic mode approach of Cursed Mode means you’ll need to rely more on skill and less on game mechanics that make survival easier. There’s no training wheels here, every mistake can be costly, and every decision matters.
For players who grew up with earlier Call of Duty Zombies games, Cursed Mode will feel like coming home. For newer players, it represents an opportunity to experience the roots of what made Zombies mode so popular in the first place.
Rewards and Benefits of Cursed Mode
While Cursed Mode is significantly more challenging than regular Zombies, the rewards make the struggle worthwhile. Treyarch has promised “classified” benefits and exclusive rewards for players who brave this mode.
Here’s what you can expect to earn:
Weapon Blueprints
Exclusive Weapon Blueprints are among the most coveted rewards in Cursed Mode. These unique weapon skins come with special attachments and visual effects that you can’t get anywhere else in the game. Each Blueprint is themed around the dark, mystical nature of Cursed Mode.
Calling Cards
Calling Cards serve as proof of your accomplishments in Cursed Mode. These exclusive player cards display your mastery of the mode and can be shown off to other players. Each Calling Card represents a specific achievement or challenge overcome in Cursed Mode.
Additional Rewards
While not officially confirmed, based on previous Zombies modes, players can likely expect:
- Exclusive character skins
- Unique emblems and charms
- Special camouflages
- Accessory items
- Possibly new operators or character variants
The special rewards in Cursed Mode are designed to be prestigious, items that other players will recognize as symbols of skill and dedication. Earning these rewards proves you’ve conquered one of the most challenging experiences in Black Ops 7 Zombies.
Tips for Success in Cursed Mode
Surviving in Cursed Mode requires a different approach than regular Zombies. Here are some essential tips to help you succeed:
Start with the Basics
Since you begin with only a pistol, focus on headshots and conserving ammunition. Every bullet counts in Cursed Mode, so make them matter. Aim carefully and don’t waste shots on body hits when headshots are available.
Learn the Map
Without a minimap, knowing the layout of Ashes of the Damned becomes crucial. Spend time learning the map in regular mode before attempting Cursed Mode. Know where good camping spots are, where the Mystery Box spawns, and where the best routes for kiting zombies are located.
Team Communication
Cursed Mode is best played with a coordinated team. Constant communication about zombie counts, Relic locations, and strategy changes can mean the difference between success and failure. Use voice chat to stay connected with your teammates.
Manage Resources Carefully
With limited Perk-a-Colas and no Ammo Caches (when Relic modifiers are active), resource management becomes critical. Don’t waste points on unnecessary items, and always keep an eye on your ammunition levels.
Prioritize Relic Collection
While challenging, collecting Relics should be a priority. Not only do they unlock rewards, but they also provide a sense of progression in the mode. Start with easier Relics and work your way up to the more difficult ones.
Practice Patience
Cursed Mode is not about speed, it’s about survival. Take your time, make smart decisions, and don’t rush into dangerous situations. Patience and careful planning will serve you better than aggression in this mode.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you unlock Cursed Mode in Black Ops 7 Zombies?
Cursed Mode becomes available globally once any player or team in the world completes the Ashes of the Damned main quest (Easter Egg) in standard Zombies mode. You don’t need to complete it yourself, someone just needs to do it first, and then everyone can access Cursed Mode.
What are Relics in Cursed Mode and how do they work?
Relics are powerful artifacts hidden throughout the map that are themed around totems from Black Ops Zombies history. Each Relic has unique access requirements and applies a debuff modifier that makes the game more challenging when collected. These modifiers can include limiting Perk-a-Colas, removing Ammo Caches, and increasing zombie difficulty.
Is Cursed Mode available at launch or do you have to wait?
Cursed Mode is not available immediately at launch. Players must wait until someone completes the Ashes of the Damned main quest first. However, since dedicated players typically complete Easter Eggs within hours of launch, the wait time is expected to be relatively short.
Can you play Cursed Mode solo or is it co-op only?
Cursed Mode can be played both solo and in co-op. However, due to the increased difficulty and challenging nature of the mode, playing with a team is generally recommended. The debuff modifiers from Relics make solo play particularly challenging.
How is Cursed Mode different from regular Zombies mode?
Cursed Mode removes many modern conveniences found in regular Zombies. You start with only a pistol, there’s no minimap, it uses a classic point system, and Relics add challenging modifiers. The mode is designed to be much more difficult and reminiscent of classic Zombies experiences.
What rewards do you get from playing Cursed Mode?
Cursed Mode offers exclusive rewards including Weapon Blueprints, Calling Cards, and other cosmetic items. These “classified” rewards are unique to the mode and serve as prestigious symbols of accomplishment for players who overcome its challenges.
What happens when you collect all the Relics in Cursed Mode?
While the exact outcome isn’t fully known, collecting Relics progressively unlocks new levels of power, replayability, and rewards. Each Relic collected makes the mode more challenging but also brings you closer to the most prestigious rewards available in Cursed Mode.
Conclusion
Black Ops 7 Zombies Cursed Mode represents an exciting return to form for the Zombies franchise. This hardcore Zombies experience strips away modern conveniences and delivers the classic, challenging gameplay that longtime fans have been missing. While unlocking Cursed Mode requires patience, waiting for the global completion of the Ashes of the Damned main quest, the reward is a uniquely satisfying gameplay experience.
Whether you’re a veteran Zombies player looking to relive the glory days or a newcomer curious about the mode’s roots, Cursed Mode offers something special. The combination of classic mechanics, challenging Relic system, and exclusive rewards creates an experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
Remember that success in Cursed Mode requires patience, skill, and teamwork. Start slow, communicate with your team, and focus on careful resource management. The rewards, exclusive Weapon Blueprints, Calling Cards, and more, are well worth the effort for those who persevere.
Are you ready to take on the challenge of Black Ops 7 Zombies Cursed Mode? The classic Zombies experience awaits, bringing with it the thrill of survival against overwhelming odds. Grab your pistol, gather your team, and prepare for the most intense Zombies experience in Black Ops 7!
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