Zombies Mode: New Story Mission “Dark Aether Rift”3 min read

The latest addition to Modern Warfare 3’s Zombies mode is the intriguing story mission “Dark Aether Rift.” This mission introduces players to new challenges, hidden secrets, and exciting rewards within the eerie confines of the Dark Aether.

Here’s an in-depth look at what you need to know to conquer this mission.

Introduction to the Dark Aether Rift

The “Dark Aether Rift” story mission is part of the Season 2 Reloaded content update for Modern Warfare 3 Zombies. It continues the narrative of Operation Deadbolt, where players are tasked with investigating a new anomaly in the Dark Aether. This mission is crucial for unlocking new schematics and progressing in the game’s rich storyline​.

How to Access the Dark Aether Rift

Modern Warfare 3 Zombies Dark Aether Rift Guide

To access the Dark Aether Rift, players need to complete specific steps:

1. Complete Preliminary Missions: Before entering the Dark Aether Rift, ensure you have completed the preceding story missions like “Countermeasures” and collected necessary artifacts.
2. Obtain Sigils: Sigils are essential for entering the rift. Regular sigils can be acquired by completing Tier 3 contracts, while elder sigils, required for deeper rift levels, can be found within the Dark Aether reward rifts.

MW3 Zombies Dark Aether Rift Locations

The locations of the Dark Aether Rifts vary. For instance, the first rift is found at location F6 after completing the “Bad Signal” mission. Subsequent rifts require completing other story missions and navigating to different map coordinates like F4.

Pass Through The Dark Aether

How to Enter Dark Aether Rift MW3 Zombies

Entering the Dark Aether involves solving various puzzles and overcoming enemy challenges:

1. Activate Obelisks: Interact with obelisks in the Dark Aether to start specific tasks. These are marked by beams of light in the sky.
2. Complete Contracts: Engage in contracts such as “Bounty” “Escort” and “Outlast” to progress through the mission. These contracts are crucial for unlocking further secrets and rewards within the rift​.

MW3 Zombies Dark Aether Rift Easter Eggs

Easter eggs play a significant role in enhancing the Dark Aether experience. These hidden features often involve intricate tasks and provide unique rewards. 

For example:

• Triangular Runes: Locate and shoot runes to form a glowing triangle, then summon and defeat a special zombie to receive an upgraded relic.
• Artifacts and Upgrades: Collect artifacts like the laptop and journal, and upgrade them at specific locations by completing Easter egg challenges​.

Challenges and Rewards

MW3 Dark Aether Rift Challenges

The Dark Aether Rift is fraught with challenges that test your skills and strategy:

1. Combat Challenges: Face powerful enemies like the Mega Abomination, which require coordinated team efforts to defeat.
2. Puzzle Solving: Navigate through puzzles involving runes and obelisks to unlock further areas and rewards.
3. Timed Tasks: Complete tasks within specific time limits to gain access to high-value rewards and new areas​.

Rewards

Successfully navigating the Dark Aether Rift yields significant rewards:

• New Schematics: Unlock powerful new schematics such as the Dead Wire Detonators and Golden Mask Filter, which provide strategic advantages in combat.
• Unique Items: Earn unique items like the Blood Burner Key and the V-R11 Wonder Weapon, which offer new gameplay mechanics and enhancements.

Summary

The “Dark Aether Rift” story mission in Modern Warfare 3 Zombies mode adds a thrilling layer of depth to the game. By following this guide, you can unlock new areas, conquer challenging tasks, and reap the rewards that await in the Dark Aether. Prepare yourself for an intense adventure filled with mystery, combat, and valuable treasures.