Unlocking the Full Potential: How to Get 7 Perks in Buried and Dominate the Undead Horde
For many Call of Duty: Black Ops Zombies players, myself included, the idea of maximizing your perk collection in the map "Buried" is the holy grail. I remember those late-night gaming sessions, scrambling to gather enough points, constantly weighing the cost of a new weapon against the invaluable benefits a perk can offer. The struggle to afford even three or four perks was real, let alone achieving the mythical seven. But with a bit of strategy, savvy point management, and an understanding of Buried's unique mechanics, getting all seven perks is not just possible – it’s a game-changer. This guide will walk you through the intricacies of achieving this ultimate perk loadout, ensuring you have the best possible chance of surviving the relentless zombie onslaught.
The Core Question: How to Get 7 Perks in Buried?
The short answer to how to get 7 perks in Buried is by strategically utilizing the **Vending Machine Perks**, the **perks that spawn in specific locations**, and the **special perk obtainable through the Grapple Hook and Witch's Cauldron**. This means acquiring the standard four Vending Machine perks (Juggernog, Speed Cola, Double Tap II, and Mule Kick), then finding the bonus perks that appear naturally on the map, and finally, employing the unique mechanics to unlock an additional two or even three perks beyond the initial set.
Understanding the Perk System in Buried
Before we dive into the specific strategies, it’s crucial to understand how perks work in Buried. Unlike some other maps where perks are static and always available, Buried introduces some unique twists.
Standard Vending Machine Perks
These are your bread and butter, the foundational perks that most players rely on. In Buried, these are located in the Saloon and the General Store.
* **Juggernog:** Increases your health, allowing you to withstand more zombie hits. Absolutely essential for survival, especially in later rounds.
* **Speed Cola:** Speeds up your weapon reloading and equipment deployment. Crucial for maintaining a high rate of fire and quickly placing traps.
* **Double Tap II:** Increases your weapon's damage output by allowing bullets to have a chance to fire twice. A significant damage boost, particularly for weaker weapons.
* **Mule Kick:** Allows you to carry a third primary weapon. This offers incredible versatility, allowing you to have specialized weapons for different situations (e.g., a Wonder Weapon, a high-powered assault rifle, and a shotgun).
The Challenge of Affordability
Each Vending Machine perk costs 4000 points. Acquiring all four from the machines alone will set you back 16,000 points. This is a substantial amount, and the early rounds of Buried are often a struggle to accumulate points, especially if you're playing solo or with less experienced teammates. This is where careful planning and resource management come into play.
Buried's Unique Perk Mechanics
What truly sets Buried apart and allows for more than the standard three or four perks is its unique mechanics.
* **Candy:** This consumable item, found scattered throughout the map or dropped by zombies, can be consumed to gain a temporary or sometimes permanent perk. However, its effects can be unpredictable.
* **The Witch's Brew (Secret Perk):** This is perhaps the most sought-after and strategic perk in Buried. It's not a traditional Vending Machine perk but a special concoction that grants you the benefits of multiple perks. To obtain it, you'll need to complete a specific set of actions involving the Witch's Cauldron and certain items.
* **Perks from the Grapple Hook:** The unique traversal mechanic of the Grapple Hook in Buried can lead to the discovery of hidden areas and, crucially, additional perk opportunities.
The Path to 7 Perks: A Step-by-Step Strategy
Achieving 7 perks requires a methodical approach. It’s not just about earning points; it’s about knowing *where* to spend them and *when* to pursue certain objectives.
Phase 1: Initial Setup and Point Accumulation (Rounds 1-5)**
Your primary goal in these early rounds is survival and point generation.
* **Melee and Headshots:** Utilize melee attacks and aim for headshots to maximize points earned per zombie kill.
* **Luring and Bank Shooting:** Learn to lure zombies into tight groups for efficient kills. The shotgun, once purchased, is excellent for this.
* **The Starting Pistol:** Stick with your starting pistol for as long as possible. Upgrading it early is often a point sink that detracts from perk acquisition.
* **Barricades:** Repairing barricades earns you points. While not a primary focus, don't ignore opportunities to do so.
* **The Mercantile:** This area contains the R.O.B. (Robot) parts. Getting the R.O.B. can provide crucial assistance and open up pathways. However, prioritize acquiring the necessary perks before investing too heavily in R.O.B. parts if your goal is the 7-perk loadout.
* **Initial Weapon Choice:** If you must buy a weapon early, consider something with decent stopping power like the Remington New Model Army or the M1897 Trench Gun. These will help you conserve ammo while racking up points.
Phase 2: Securing the Core Vending Machine Perks (Rounds 5-10)**
Once you have a reasonable point cushion (aim for at least 8,000-12,000 points), it's time to start hitting the Vending Machines.
* **Prioritization:** While all perks are valuable, Juggernog is often the first priority for survivability. Speed Cola is a close second for faster reloading and more efficient point-earning. Double Tap II significantly boosts your damage, and Mule Kick adds immense utility.
* **Strategic Vending Machine Visits:** Consider which perks you need most based on your playstyle and current weapon. If you're wielding a rapid-firing weapon, Speed Cola becomes even more critical. If you're relying on a powerful but slow-reloading weapon, Speed Cola is still a top pick.
* **Mule Kick Strategy:** Mule Kick is excellent for enabling a three-weapon loadout, which is vital for a 7-perk setup. However, its perk slot cost (losing a perk when you go down) means you need to be careful.
Phase 3: Unlocking the Bonus Perks (Rounds 10+)**
This is where the true "7 perks" strategy begins to take shape. Buried has a few additional perks that aren't tied to the main Vending Machines.
The Witch's Brew (The Secret to Extra Perks)**
This is where things get really interesting. The Witch's Brew isn't a direct purchase but a reward for completing a mini-quest involving the **Witch's Cauldron**.
* **Location of the Witch's Cauldron:** The Witch's Cauldron is located in the underground area, often accessible via a tunnel near the courthouse or the Saloon. It requires power to be active.
* **The Process:**
1. **Activate Power:** You’ll need to activate the main power switch in Buried, which usually involves navigating through the mine shafts and activating generators.
2. **Gather the Ingredients:** The Witch's Cauldron requires specific items to brew the Witch's Brew. These items are:
* **Witch's Cauldron:** You interact with this object itself.
* **Beehive:** Often found in the area above the Saloon, sometimes near the barn.
* **Bottle of Booze:** Can spawn in various locations, often within buildings.
* **Vulture's Wing:** This is a bit trickier. You’ll need to shoot down a vulture that periodically flies across the map. Aim carefully and practice your shots.
* **Rabbit's Foot:** Similarly, you'll need to shoot a rabbit that hops around specific areas of the map. These are small and fast, requiring quick reflexes and accurate aiming.
3. **Interacting with the Cauldron:** Once you have collected all the required items, return to the Witch's Cauldron and interact with it. If you have all the ingredients, the Witch's Brew will be created.
* **Benefits of the Witch's Brew:** Upon drinking the Witch's Brew, you gain the benefits of **Stamin-Up** (increased sprint speed and duration) and **Deadshot Daquiri** (your bullets will automatically aim for the zombie's head). This is essentially two perks rolled into one, and it *does not* take up a standard perk slot from the Vending Machines! This is the key to achieving more than four perks.
Perks from the Grapple Hook and Hidden Areas**
Buried's Grapple Hook mechanic opens up new avenues for exploration and, potentially, more perks.
* **The "Perk-a-Cola" Dispenser:** In certain hidden or hard-to-reach areas, particularly those accessed via the Grapple Hook, you might find a lone **Perk-a-Cola machine** that dispenses a random perk. This is not guaranteed, and the perk it dispenses is random, but it's another potential avenue to increase your perk count.
* **Exploring the Map Thoroughly:** I’ve personally found that diligent exploration, especially after activating power and gaining access to more areas via the R.O.B. or Grapple Hook, can reveal these hidden perk dispensers. Don't underestimate the value of carefully scanning every corner of the map.
Phase 4: The Final Push for 7 Perks (Rounds 15+)**
By this stage, if you've been following the strategy, you should have:
1. **The Four Standard Vending Machine Perks** (Juggernog, Speed Cola, Double Tap II, Mule Kick).
2. **The Witch's Brew** (which grants Stamin-Up and Deadshot Daquiri).
This brings your total to **six perks**: Juggernog, Speed Cola, Double Tap II, Mule Kick, Stamin-Up, and Deadshot Daquiri.
To reach the coveted **seven perks**, you need one more. This can come from a couple of sources:
* **The Random Perk Dispenser:** As mentioned, if you found and successfully used a random Perk-a-Cola machine in a hidden area, that’s your seventh perk. The random nature of this means it might not always happen, but it's a possibility.
* **The "Candy" Mechanic (Less Reliable):** While not a guaranteed method for a permanent perk, sometimes consuming "candy" found on the map can grant a temporary perk. This is not ideal for a permanent 7-perk loadout but can be a lifesaver in a pinch.
* **A Second Witch's Brew?** It’s important to clarify: you can only brew the Witch's Brew *once* per game. It’s not a repeatable perk source.
**Therefore, the most consistent way to achieve 7 perks in Buried is by securing the four Vending Machine perks, brewing the Witch's Brew (for Stamin-Up and Deadshot Daquiri), and then finding a random Perk-a-Cola dispenser in a hidden area.**
My Experience: The Grind and the Reward**
I’ll be honest, the first time I managed to get 7 perks in Buried was during a marathon session with friends. We’d been playing for hours, meticulously saving points. The tension was palpable as we worked towards activating power, collecting the Witch's Brew ingredients, and finally, finding that elusive random perk machine tucked away in a corner of the map. When we finally had all seven active, the feeling was incredible. Suddenly, the zombie horde felt less intimidating. Running faster with Stamin-Up, reloading instantly with Speed Cola, and landing headshots with Deadshot Daquiri made navigating the map and dispatching zombies feel effortless. It truly transformed the gameplay experience and allowed us to push into much higher rounds than we ever had before. It’s a testament to the power of strategic planning and understanding the game’s mechanics.
Detailed Breakdown of Strategies for Each Perk**
Let's break down how to efficiently acquire each of the potential seven perks:
1. Juggernog**
* **Cost:** 4000 points
* **Location:** Saloon
* **Strategy:** This is your absolute priority for survival. Aim to have this by round 5 or 6 at the latest. Earn points by killing zombies with melee and headshots with your starting pistol. If you’re playing co-op, have one person focus on point generation while others defend.
* **Unique Insight:** Don't be afraid to spend your initial points on repairing barricades for extra points if it means getting to Juggernog faster. A few extra points can make all the difference.
2. Speed Cola**
* **Cost:** 4000 points
* **Location:** General Store
* **Strategy:** Crucial for faster reloads, which directly translates to more points and better survival. Prioritize this after Juggernog. It complements any weapon, but it’s especially impactful on slower-firing weapons or when you’re in a tight spot and need to reload quickly.
* **Unique Insight:** Speed Cola also speeds up your use of equipment like grenades and tactical equipment. This can be a lifesaver for crowd control or dealing with special zombies.
3. Double Tap II**
* **Cost:** 4000 points
* **Location:** Saloon
* **Strategy:** The damage boost is substantial. This perk makes your weapons far more effective, allowing you to kill zombies faster and conserve ammo. It’s incredibly valuable for pushing into higher rounds.
* **Unique Insight:** While Double Tap II increases the chance of firing twice, it also slightly increases your ammo consumption. However, the increased kill rate generally offsets this, especially with higher-powered weapons.
4. Mule Kick**
* **Cost:** 4000 points
* **Location:** General Store
* **Strategy:** The ability to carry a third weapon is a game-changer for a 7-perk loadout. It allows you to carry a Wonder Weapon, a long-range weapon, and a close-quarters weapon, giving you unparalleled versatility. Be mindful that if you go down, you lose your third weapon.
* **Unique Insight:** Mule Kick is particularly useful for combining the power of a Wonder Weapon with a high-capacity assault rifle and a close-range shotgun for emergencies. This tactical flexibility is key for higher rounds.
5. Stamin-Up (via Witch's Brew)**
* **Cost:** Variable (requires item collection)
* **Location:** Witch's Cauldron (underground)
* **Strategy:** This is one of the two perks gained from the Witch's Brew. It dramatically increases your sprint speed and sprint duration, allowing you to outmaneuver zombies much more effectively, create distance, and reach objectives faster.
* **Unique Insight:** Stamin-Up is invaluable for escaping crowded areas, baiting zombies, and performing the "trick or treat" mechanic for the Witch's Brew itself. The improved mobility can be the difference between life and death.
6. Deadshot Daquiri (via Witch's Brew)**
* **Cost:** Variable (requires item collection)
* **Location:** Witch's Cauldron (underground)
* **Strategy:** This is the second perk from the Witch's Brew. It automatically aims your bullets at the zombie's head, ensuring critical hits. This significantly increases your damage output and makes headshotting easier, even with less accurate weapons.
* **Unique Insight:** Deadshot Daquiri is incredibly powerful, especially when combined with Double Tap II. It can make even weaker weapons highly effective for zombie elimination. The auto-aim feature can also help you conserve ammo by ensuring every shot counts towards a headshot.
7. The Seventh Perk (Random)**
* **Cost:** Variable (usually free upon discovery or minimal points)
* **Location:** Randomly spawned Perk-a-Cola dispenser in hidden areas, accessible via Grapple Hook or other means.
* **Strategy:** This is your wildcard. It could be Juggernog, Speed Cola, Double Tap II, Mule Kick, Stamin-Up, or even Quick Revive (though Quick Revive is less common as a random spawn). The key is thorough exploration. After activating power and utilizing the R.O.B. or Grapple Hook, systematically search every accessible nook and cranny.
* **Unique Insight:** I've found these random dispensers most often in areas that require a bit more effort to reach, such as ledges overlooking the main map or small side rooms off the main paths. Don't give up searching; sometimes it's in the most unexpected place.
The Importance of Resource Management and Timing**
Achieving 7 perks is not just about knowing *what* to get, but *when* and *how* to get it.
* **Point Management is King:** Every point counts. Avoid unnecessary purchases early on. Every dollar spent on a quick revive or a wall weapon before you have your core perks is a dollar not spent on progress.
* **Know Your Enemy:** Understand the zombie spawns and the overall flow of the map. This allows you to position yourself effectively for point generation and survival.
* **Cooperative Play:** If playing with others, clear communication is vital. Assign roles if necessary (e.g., one player focuses on point gathering, another on defending, another on collecting Witch's Brew items). A well-coordinated team can achieve the 7-perk goal much faster.
* **The Grapple Hook's Role:** The Grapple Hook isn't just for traversal. It opens up access to areas where those random perk dispensers might be. Always be looking for opportunities to use it to explore new sections of the map.
A Visual Guide: The Perk Loadout**
Here’s a potential ideal 7-perk loadout and why it’s so powerful:
| Perk Slot | Perk Name | Source | Primary Benefit |
| :-------- | :------------- | :----------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| 1 | Juggernog | Vending Machine (Saloon) | Increased survivability (more health) |
| 2 | Speed Cola | Vending Machine (General Store) | Faster reloading and equipment use |
| 3 | Double Tap II | Vending Machine (Saloon) | Increased weapon damage output |
| 4 | Mule Kick | Vending Machine (General Store) | Ability to carry a third primary weapon |
| 5 | Stamin-Up | Witch's Brew (Underground Cauldron) | Enhanced sprint speed and duration |
| 6 | Deadshot Daquiri | Witch's Brew (Underground Cauldron) | Automatic headshot aiming |
| 7 | Random Perk | Hidden Perk Dispenser (Grapple Hook) | Varies (e.g., another Juggernog, Speed Cola, or a less common perk like Quick Revive) |
**Note:** The order of the Vending Machine perks can be adjusted based on your personal preference and playstyle. For instance, some players might prioritize Speed Cola over Double Tap II early on.
Advanced Strategies and Tips**
* **The Grapple Hook for Speed:** Mastering the Grapple Hook can significantly speed up your traversal across the map, allowing you to collect items for the Witch's Brew or reach hidden perk locations faster.
* **R.O.B. Assistance:** While not directly related to perks, the R.O.B. can be a valuable asset. Its ability to clear paths and defend areas frees you up to focus on objectives like collecting Witch's Brew ingredients or finding the random perk dispenser.
* **Gobblegums (if applicable):** If you're playing on a version of the game that includes Gobblegums, some can significantly assist in perk acquisition. For example, "Perkaholic" instantly grants all perks. However, for the pure challenge of earning them, the methods described above are key.
* **"Trick or Treat" for the Witch's Brew:** The mechanic of offering items to the Witch's Cauldron can sometimes yield rewards or speed up the brewing process if you’ve collected items that she desires. However, focusing on the core ingredients is the most reliable path.
Frequently Asked Questions**
How to Get All Vending Machine Perks Quickly?**
To get all four Vending Machine perks as quickly as possible, focus relentlessly on point generation in the early rounds. Stick with your starting pistol, aim for headshots and melee kills, and repair barricades. Avoid buying wall weapons or power-ups until you have at least 16,000 points saved. Once you reach this threshold, immediately purchase Juggernog, then Speed Cola, followed by Double Tap II and Mule Kick. The order might vary slightly based on immediate needs, but prioritizing these four is crucial before attempting to unlock the bonus perks.
Why is the Witch's Brew so Important for 7 Perks?**
The Witch's Brew is paramount because it grants you the benefits of two powerful perks – Stamin-Up and Deadshot Daquiri – *without* taking up a dedicated Vending Machine perk slot. Standard perk slots are limited, and the Witch's Brew effectively gives you two extra perks by utilizing a unique game mechanic. This is the most reliable way to exceed the typical four Vending Machine perks and approach the 7-perk goal. Without it, you'd be capped at four Vending Machine perks and any random perks you might find.
Is it Possible to Get More Than 7 Perks in Buried?**
In standard gameplay, without the use of external cheats or glitches, the maximum achievable number of *permanent* perks in Buried is generally considered to be seven. This is achieved through the four Vending Machine perks, the two provided by the Witch's Brew, and one random perk. While some temporary Gobblegum effects could grant additional temporary benefits, the core 7-perk loadout relies on these specific in-game mechanics.
What is the Best Order to Buy Vending Machine Perks?**
The "best" order is subjective and depends on your playstyle and the current situation. However, a widely recommended order for efficiency and survival is:
1. **Juggernog:** For immediate survivability. You can withstand more hits, giving you more room for error.
2. **Speed Cola:** For faster reloading and equipment use, which directly translates to more points and better combat effectiveness.
3. **Double Tap II:** For increased damage output. This makes killing zombies quicker and conserves ammo in the long run.
4. **Mule Kick:** For the tactical advantage of a third weapon. This is often purchased last of the Vending Machine perks due to its cost and the risk of losing the third weapon upon going down.
This order balances survivability, efficiency, and strategic advantage.
How Do I Find the Items for the Witch's Brew Efficiently?**
Finding the items for the Witch's Brew requires knowledge of their spawn locations and a bit of luck.
* **Witch's Cauldron:** This is a fixed object in the underground area.
* **Beehive:** Often found near the barn area or above the Saloon. Keep an eye out for its distinctive shape.
* **Bottle of Booze:** Can spawn in various buildings, particularly in the Saloon or General Store. Look on tables and shelves.
* **Vulture's Wing:** This requires shooting a vulture as it flies across the sky. It’s a moving target, so practice your aim. They often fly over the main town area.
* **Rabbit's Foot:** Similar to the vulture, you need to shoot a rabbit. These are small and quick, and they tend to appear in grassy or open areas. Patience and quick reflexes are key.
It’s often most efficient to collect these items concurrently with your other objectives, such as activating power or purchasing Vending Machine perks.
What is the Purpose of the Grapple Hook in Acquiring Perks?**
The Grapple Hook is essential for reaching certain areas of the map that are otherwise inaccessible. These hidden or elevated locations are where the random Perk-a-Cola dispensers sometimes appear. Therefore, mastering the Grapple Hook and exploring all its possible uses is critical for finding that seventh, random perk that completes your 7-perk loadout. Without the Grapple Hook, many of these potential perk locations would remain out of reach.
My Experience with the 7-Perk Goal:**
I’ve spent countless hours on Buried, and the quest for the 7-perk loadout has always been a major goal. It’s not just about power; it’s about the challenge and the satisfaction of mastering the map's mechanics. The first time I successfully brewed the Witch’s Brew, I felt like I had unlocked a secret level of the game. And then, finding that one extra perk dispenser in a hidden alcove after activating power felt like striking gold. It's a feeling that keeps players coming back. The ability to have Stamin-Up alongside Juggernog and Speed Cola changes the entire flow of combat, allowing for incredible mobility and survivability. The added damage from Deadshot Daquiri, combined with a powerful weapon obtained via Mule Kick, makes you a force to be reckoned with. It truly is the ultimate perk loadout for Buried, offering a significant advantage against the increasingly difficult zombie waves.
Conclusion: Mastering Buried with a Full Perk Arsenal**
Achieving a 7-perk loadout in Buried is a testament to your strategic planning, point management, and understanding of the map's unique mechanics. By prioritizing the core Vending Machine perks, diligently collecting the ingredients for the Witch's Brew, and thoroughly exploring the map for hidden perk dispensers, you can unlock an unparalleled advantage. This ultimate perk setup, including Juggernog, Speed Cola, Double Tap II, Mule Kick, Stamin-Up, Deadshot Daquiri, and a random seventh perk, will elevate your gameplay, allowing you to survive longer, score higher, and truly dominate the undead hordes of Buried. It's a challenging but incredibly rewarding endeavor that every dedicated Zombies player should strive for. Happy hunting, and may your perk collection be ever full!
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