Laying the Groundwork: Before You Embark
The chilling winds of a medieval castle, the distant roar of dragons, and the unending hordes of the undead. This is the terrifyingly thrilling world of Der Eisendrache, a beloved Zombies map in Call of Duty: Black Ops 3. Beyond the waves of relentless zombies lies a complex and rewarding Easter Egg, a quest that challenges players to uncover the map’s hidden narrative and unlock its ultimate secrets. This guide serves as your companion, a step-by-step walkthrough to conquer the Der Eisendrache Easter Egg, guiding you from novice to zombie-slaying champion.
First, consider your arsenal. Certain weapons are simply more effective in Der Eisendrache. The Pack-a-Punched version of the Kuda or VMP offer excellent sustained damage, crucial for clearing hordes and dealing with powerful zombies. The Haymaker 12 is a powerhouse, especially in close quarters. The powerful Ray Gun Mark II can provide an advantage for dealing some significant damage, particularly in the later stages of the Easter Egg.
Next, the right perks can make a world of difference. Quick Revive is a must-have, especially in solo play. Jugger-Nog provides the much-needed health boost. Speed Cola makes reloading faster, essential in a chaotic environment. Double Tap increases your rate of fire. The Electric Cherry perk can strategically clear zombies when reloading. Finally, consider perk-a-holic for maximum perk effectiveness.
Remember, successful Easter Egg attempts often benefit from a team. While it’s possible to complete the Easter Egg solo, the coordination and firepower of a full team of four players significantly ease the burden. Communication is paramount. Constant dialogue allows for the efficient execution of steps. Designate roles, assign responsibilities, and remain adaptable, because unforeseen circumstances can always arise.
Finally, patience. Der Eisendrache’s Easter Egg is intricate, often involving multiple steps and specific timing requirements. Mistakes happen, but don’t give up. Learn from errors, adapt, and understand that perseverance is key to achieving victory against the undead.
Igniting the Power: The Core of the Map
Before venturing into the complex quest, you must first power up the map. This initial step unlocks key areas and functionalities, setting the stage for the true hunt. This process is relatively straightforward but necessary.
Begin by activating the generators scattered throughout the map. One generator is located in the Courtyard, right at the start, close to the stairs leading to the Pack-a-Punch machine. Another generator is found near the Rocket Site, requiring a short journey from spawn. The third generator sits near the Undercroft, where a Dragon Head resides. Each generator needs to be activated by interacting with it, causing a surge of electricity to begin.
Once the generators are active, power will flow through the map, opening crucial doors, unlocking the Pack-a-Punch machine, and enabling essential features like the teleporters and the ability to use the dragon heads to travel. This first action is critical.
Mastering the Bows: Your Elemental Arsenal
The elemental bows are the heart of the Der Eisendrache Easter Egg. Each bow delivers unique abilities and is crucial for various steps of the grand quest.
The Wolf Bow Quest
The Wolf Bow is one of the first and easiest to acquire. Visit the area near the pyramid, and locate the three wolf heads around the map, each with a corresponding symbol above them. The symbol above them will be the same symbol as the wolf head you need to put the arrow in. Shoot the arrows into the heads. Collect the arrow that fell out of the Wolf head. Stand in the room near the Wolf head at the entrance, aiming toward the clock. A clock will appear, you need to fill up the clock by killing zombies that are near to your arrow. The arrow, once charged, can then be picked up to gain the Wolf Bow.
The Lightning Bow Quest
The Lightning Bow requires a bit more exploration. Locate the electrical sparks emanating from the roof in the courtyard. Shoot the three electrical sparks with a charged arrow. When shot, the sparks will trigger an electric current, indicating success. Now, interact with the three electrical traps located around the map. In the Undercroft, look for a skull on a table, you must interact with it, then kill the zombies next to the skull. Collect the arrow to gain the Lightning Bow.
The Fire Bow Quest
The Fire Bow, known for its explosive power, starts by finding the Dragon Head in the Rocket Site. You must use a charged arrow to light the three braziers located around the map. These braziers will each require a zombie kill near them to ignite. The first is located in the Rocket Site itself, another in the courtyard, and the last is in the Undercroft. Collect the arrow to acquire the Fire Bow.
The Void Bow Quest
The Void Bow, the most mysterious of the group, involves interacting with three floating objects around the map. Find the three wisps of floating energy and use the arrow to shoot them. After shooting, pick up the arrow to get the Void Bow.
Constructing the Ragnarok DG-4 (Optional but Helpful)
While not strictly required for the Easter Egg, the Ragnarok DG-4 can be a significant asset. This powerful specialist weapon allows you to temporarily stun zombies and provides invaluable protection during crucial steps. To build it, you must locate three parts.
The first part is located in the Rocket Site area. The second part can be located in the Courtyard, in the building near the Pack-a-Punch machine. The last part is in the Undercroft, on the lower level. These parts can then be assembled at a workbench, typically found in the same locations.
Planting the Key: A Signal to the Dragons
With your bows now in your possession and the Ragnarok DG-4 optional, the next step involves planting the Summoning Key.
Locate the Dragon Head situated in the Giant Tower. The Summoning Key can then be placed in this dragon’s mouth by pressing the interact button. Placing the key is essential, as it triggers subsequent steps of the Easter Egg.
Feeding the Dragons: Infusing the Souls
Now comes the most intricate and arguably most time-consuming aspect of the Easter Egg. You must fill the soul canisters with zombie souls.
Head to the locations of the Dragon Heads. Using the correct bow (based on what is required to fill the container) you need to shoot the canisters with a charged arrow. Now, kill zombies near the canisters. The canisters will begin to glow, gradually filling with the souls of the fallen. The glowing means the canisters are being filled. Once completely full, they will emit a bright light, signifying their completion. You must repeat this process at each of the four dragon heads. The correct bows for filling each container can be discovered by simply observing the requirements near each container. This step requires patience and accuracy, so ensure you’re positioned effectively and have a clear line of sight.
Firing the Rocket: Preparing for Ascension
Once all the canisters are filled, it’s time to prepare for the rocket launch. Go back to the rocket site and interact with the controls in the Rocket Site. You must now kill the panzer soldat with the bow that you are using for the main step. The panzer will drop an electric fuse, collect it. After the fuse is collected you will see the rocket fire. If the rocket successfully fires, then the next steps will commence.
Confronting the Warden: The Final Test
Now comes the final challenge: the Warden.
After completing the steps to fire the rocket, a new cutscene will begin. The Warden will arrive in the main tower. You must now kill the Warden. The boss fight involves multiple phases. In his first phase, the Warden will attack with a melee attack. Make sure to use the Ragnarok DG-4 to slow him down and keep a safe distance while dealing damage with your best weapons.
In the second phase, the Warden will become immune to all bullets and begin summoning hordes of zombies. Use this time to gather ammo and recharge your special weapons.
The next phase will return you back to phase one. Repeat this process until you are on the final phase. In his final phase, the Warden will be defeated, and the Easter Egg is complete.
The Grand Finale and the Cutscene
Once the Warden is defeated, enjoy the cutscene. This cinematic sequence reveals the conclusion of the Der Eisendrache narrative, a reward for your hard-fought victory. Congratulations!
Secrets and Side Quests: Delving Deeper
Beyond the main Easter Egg, Der Eisendrache holds additional secrets for dedicated players. These include unlocking Pack-a-Punch early and other side quests. These secrets and side quests can offer unique rewards.
Tips for Triumphant Zombie Slaying
Here are some extra tips to ensure you are successful.
First, utilize the power-ups. Instakill, Double Points, and Max Ammo can provide a huge advantage during hectic encounters. Know when to prioritize using them strategically.
Then, watch your surroundings. The map is large, and zombies can appear from anywhere. Be aware of your surroundings and always have an escape route planned.
Also, prioritize killing the Panzer Soldat. Their attacks are powerful and can quickly overwhelm you. Focus on eliminating them quickly, especially during key Easter Egg steps.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different weapons and tactics, and embrace the challenge.
Wrapping Up: Your Legacy
The Der Eisendrache Easter Egg is a testament to the ingenuity and complexity of the Zombies experience. Completing it provides a deep satisfaction and unlocks the secrets of the map’s narrative. Remember the steps, stay focused, communicate effectively, and embrace the challenge. Now venture forth, conquer the undead, and claim your reward!
