Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 remains a highlight for fans of the round-based Zombies mode, and the Buried map stands out as one of its most memorable subterranean experiences. Set in an underground Old West town, this map introduces unique mechanics, creative buildables, and a memorable cast of characters. Mastering its twists requires a strong understanding of its layout and secret features.
Navigating the Underground Town and Arthur
Buried places players in a sprawling underground cavern containing a bank, general store, saloon, and jail. One of the map's defining mechanics is Arthur, the giant ally locked inside the cell who can be bribed with candy or booze. Feeding Arthur booze causes him to smash through barricades, opening crucial routes around the town early in the game.
Giving Arthur candy near various items triggers helpful behaviors, such as locking mystery box locations or holding a single zombie in place. Players keeping up with daily gaming news often point to Arthur as one of the most inventive companion systems in classic Zombies history. Managing his actions efficiently allows your team to establish control over the map early without spending excess points.
Essential Buildables and Super Wonder Weapons
The Workbench system in Buried allows players to craft game-changing equipment using parts scattered across the map. The Subwoofer and Head Chopper buildables provide excellent crowd control when placed in high-density choke points. Combining these devices creates safe zones where players can easily process incoming zombie waves.
The Paralyzer serves as Buried's signature Wonder Weapon, capable of decimating undead hordes while granting infinite ammunition. Additionally, firing the Paralyzer downward lifts players into the air, granting access to rooftops and secret shortcuts across the town. Pairing this weapon with the Ray Gun Mark II makes high-round survival significantly more manageable.
Unlocking the Mined Games Easter Egg
Buried features the finale of the Victis storyline with the Mined Games Easter Egg, offering distinct paths for both Richtofen and Maxis. Completing the main quest requires precise coordination, including navigating the haunted mansion and hitting targets in a timed shooting gallery. Successfully executing all steps rewards players with permanent perks and a satisfying story conclusion.
Navigating the Haunted Mansion requires caution, as the ghost resident drains 2,000 points upon touching a player. However, defeating the ghosts inside grants a free perk bottle once you clear the building. Mastering this mansion run is critical for building a full stack of perks without relying solely on the Perk-a-Cola machines.
Strategies for Long-Term High-Round Survival
Surviving into high rounds on Buried relies heavily on leveraging the bank system and the weapon locker. Depositing points in previous games lets you withdraw a massive fortune on round one to power up early. Utilizing the chalk wall drawings to place wall weapons in custom locations provides an easy source of ammo during intense rounds.
Holding out near the courthouse or atop the bank saloon roof offers clear sightlines and easy escape routes using the Paralyzer. Setting up Trample Steams to propel players over gaps adds another layer of safety when overwhelmed by zombies. With proper planning and buildable management, Buried offers one of the most rewarding survival experiences in Call of Duty history.