New to Dark Aether Zombies? Follow this opening sequence every match and you'll comfortably reach the mid rounds — the foundation for boss fights and Easter Eggs.
Open up & turn on the power
Spend your early Essence buying doors toward the Pack-a-Punch and the power switch. Powering the map unlocks perk machines and Pack-a-Punch.
Buy armour, then Jugger-Nog
Grab an armour vest and plates from the Crafting Table, then rush Jugger-Nog for the health boost. These two keep you alive more than any weapon.
Get a real weapon
Buy a Wall Buy you like or gamble the Mystery Box. Your starting pistol falls off fast — upgrade by round 5–6.
Pack-a-Punch & raise Rarity
Once powered, Pack-a-Punch your weapon and spend Salvage at the Arsenal to raise its Rarity. Both multiply your damage for the high rounds.
Pick a Field Upgrade & Ammo Mod
Apply an Ammo Mod at Pack-a-Punch (Dead Wire or Shatter Blast are great) and keep a Field Upgrade like Aether Shroud for emergencies.
Train the horde
Don't stand still — run big loops through an open area and shoot the zombies chasing you. This bunches them up for easy kills and Ammo-Mod procs.
Manage the specials
Save equipment and your Wonder Weapon for Manglers, Amalgams and Abominations — they hit hard and soak damage.
Exfil or go for the Easter Egg
Call an Exfil to bank the match, or if you're geared, start the map's main quest Easter Egg for the best rewards.
Habits that keep you alive
- Never let Jugger-Nog lapse after a down — rebuy it first thing.
- Keep armour plates topped up from the Crafting Table.
- Buy the four core perks in order: Jugger-Nog → Quick Revive → Speed Cola → Stamin-Up.
- Research Augments between matches to customise your perks, mods and field upgrades.
- Which map first? Liberty Falls is the friendliest for learning the loop.
💬 Community Strategies & Discussion
Did you find a hidden chest? Struggling with a boss? Share your tips and questions with other mercenaries below!