The Staff of Ice stands out as an intriguing Wonder Weapon in the *Call of Duty* series. While its base form might not impress, the upgraded version becomes essential for tackling high rounds and completing main quest Easter eggs in *Black Ops 6* Zombies. 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

To upgrade the Staff of Ice on The Tomb map in *Black Ops 6* Zombies, you need to fulfill just two main prerequisites. First, you must acquire the Ice Staff itself. You can obtain this Wonder Weapon from the Mystery Box or by collecting its three parts to build it.

The upgrade process involves significant interaction with the Dark Aether Nexus. To proceed, ensure you open the Door to Nowhere as early as possible to access the Dark Aether.

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

Step 1: Freeze Dark Aether Crystals

The initial step requires you to freeze three Dark Aether Crystals found within the lanterns in the underground areas of The Tomb. These lanterns are identifiable by their black frames and glowing purple fire.

Use the Staff of Ice to freeze these crystals in quick succession. To enhance your chances of success, consider using Stamin-Up and/or PHD Flopper with the Tribologist Minor Augment, as these perks significantly boost your movement speed.

Strategically, choosing the right route is crucial, as is managing the spawn locations of the Dark Aether lanterns. It might be beneficial to wait a few rounds to optimize their positions. The most efficient route starts at the tomb area, then proceeds to the Shrine of the Hierophants, and finally to the entrance of the Subterranean Temple. Ensure one of the lanterns is active, as the one near Quick Revive is too distant. Upon successful completion, you'll hear a quote from Archibald, signaling you to enter the Dark Aether Nexus.

Step 2: Floating Rocks in the Dark Aether Nexus

After completing the first step, locate three specific floating rocks in the sky of the Dark Aether Nexus, each marked with a glowing purple Rune bearing a unique symbol. Note that these symbols can vary each game, so record them carefully.

Use the Staff of Ice to shoot each Rune. Aiming accurately can be challenging, but a successful hit will cause the rock to descend, making the Rune easier to spot. Equipping a sniper rifle or a weapon with a medium-high zoom scope can aid in identifying these symbols more easily. The order in which you shoot the rocks does not matter, as long as all three are eventually hit.

Step 3: Rune Symbols Puzzle

After completing the second step, a portal back to the main map will be replaced by a stone wall. Return to the corresponding area on the 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 in the Dark Aether Nexus.

Be aware that the portal will reopen regardless of whether you shoot the correct symbols. However, incorrect choices will lead to spawning in the wrong location within the Dark Aether Nexus, potentially resulting in a fall from mid-air. If you fail multiple times, you may need to wait a few rounds before the stone wall reappears.

If you correctly shoot the three symbols, you'll find yourself on a floating rock in the Dark Aether Nexus with a purple orb in front of you. Interact with the orb to proceed.

Step 4: Soul Chest Orb Escort

After interacting with the orb, it will begin to move. Follow it closely and eliminate zombies near it to fuel its movement with a purple trail emanating from the kills. Continue this aggressive playstyle until the orb reaches the central structure of the Dark Aether Nexus.

Once the orb settles, interact with the small purple portal that appears, and your Staff of Ice will transform into Ull's Arrow.

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

The upgraded Staff of Ice, now known as Ull's Arrow, retains the powerful charge attack from its classic Origins map counterpart in *Black Ops 2* and *3*, delivering high area-of-effect damage. Additionally, it gains an alternate fire mode capable of reviving downed teammates, enhancing its utility in cooperative play.

And that's how you upgrade the Staff of Ice in *Black Ops 6* Zombies.

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