Unlocking the Power: How Does the Pack-A-Punch Machine Work?
The Pack-A-Punch machine is a cornerstone of the Call of Duty Zombies experience, a mystical device that transforms ordinary firearms into devastating tools of undead destruction. In its essence, the Pack-A-Punch machine is a weapon upgrade station, allowing players to significantly enhance their firepower for a steep price. This process fundamentally alters a weapon’s characteristics, typically improving its damage output, magazine capacity, and sometimes adding unique effects or attachments.
The process is fairly straightforward. Once players have gained access to the location where the Pack-A-Punch machine is situated – often through a combination of opening doors, activating switches, or solving puzzles – they can interact with it. Selecting a weapon while standing near the machine triggers an animation where the gun is placed inside, and after a brief period, a more powerful version emerges. This upgraded weapon is now ready to unleash its enhanced capabilities upon the hordes of zombies.
The cost of a Pack-A-Punch upgrade varies depending on the specific Call of Duty title and often, even during an in-game match. Generally, the first Pack-A-Punch costs 5000 points. These points are earned by killing zombies, repairing barricades, and completing various other objectives within the game. In some instances, discount events such as a “Bonfire Sale” can reduce the upgrade cost, occasionally even down to 1000 points.
Beyond the initial upgrade, some versions of the game allow for additional re-Pack-A-Punching, although these are usually not for every weapon. For example, in Black Ops II, certain weapons can be Pack-A-Punched a second time for 2000 points, which typically adds a random attachment, but does not replenish ammo. In Black Ops III, you might see a similar process with module changes costing 2500 points. However, it’s critical to remember that re-Pack-A-Punching doesn’t always replenish ammo and does not always offer an additional damage buff; it mainly focuses on attachments and modules.
Understanding the Pack-A-Punch machine is essential for any player looking to survive the later rounds of a Zombies match. It’s the difference between struggling with basic weapons and having the tools to consistently clear waves of the undead. Mastering its use, along with understanding the nuances of each game’s specific mechanics, can make or break a run to the high rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Pack-A-Punch Machine
What is the primary purpose of the Pack-A-Punch machine?
The Pack-A-Punch machine is primarily designed to upgrade weapons, significantly increasing their damage, magazine capacity, and sometimes adding unique effects or attachments. This is crucial for surviving the increasingly difficult rounds of zombies.
How much does it typically cost to Pack-A-Punch a weapon?
The standard cost for the first Pack-A-Punch upgrade is 5000 points. However, this cost can vary, with some games having discount periods like “Bonfire Sales” that might reduce it to as little as 1000 points.
Does Pack-A-Punching a weapon refill its ammo?
No, Pack-A-Punching does not automatically refill your weapon’s ammo. You will still need to replenish your ammunition through purchasing more ammo from wall-buy locations or through the usual methods. There is however an exception when taking the gun off the wall for the first time, as you will get full ammo, but the ammo will not be restocked if you were to Pack-a-Punch it again.
Can I Pack-A-Punch a weapon multiple times?
The ability to re-Pack-A-Punch a weapon varies between Call of Duty titles. In Black Ops II, certain weapons can be Pack-A-Punched a second time for 2000 points, which typically adds a random attachment. In Black Ops III, similar additional upgrades may exist at 2500 points for module additions or changes. However, most Call of Duty titles limit you to only one Pack-A-Punch per weapon.
Can I Pack-A-Punch any weapon?
Generally, most standard weapons can be Pack-A-Punched. However, some Wonder Weapons and special items like the Death Machine cannot be upgraded. It is always best to check the specific rules of the Call of Duty title you’re playing.
What happens when you re-Pack-A-Punch a weapon?
When you re-Pack-A-Punch, often in games like Black Ops II and Black Ops III, it usually results in adding an attachment or module. This can vary wildly depending on the game and weapon. These attachments can range from sights and grips to unique benefits tailored to the weapon. It is important to note that it generally does not replenish ammo.
Can you Pack-A-Punch grenades?
Yes, in some versions of the game you can upgrade grenades. Typically, you throw grenades into the Pack-A-Punch machine and they become upgraded, improving their damage and/or effects. Once upgraded, every grenade of that kind that you use is stronger. This usually costs points, somewhere between 3000 to 5000 points per grenade type.
What are the best weapons to Pack-A-Punch?
The best weapons to Pack-A-Punch often depend on your playstyle and specific game. However, weapons with large magazine sizes are often recommended for camping strategies. Popular choices include the M16 and AK74u, especially for later rounds due to their effectiveness. The wall-buy weapons are often favoured as they are easier to resupply with ammo.
Can you buy ammo for a Pack-A-Punched weapon?
Yes, you can, but there is a caveat to it. Ammo for Pack-A-Punched weapons can be bought from the wall buy locations if the weapon was originally purchased from there. The cost to buy Pack-a-Punched ammo is usually 4500 points.
Can you hack the Pack-A-Punch machine?
In some versions of the game you can hack the Pack-A-Punch machine. Hacking it will raise gates around the machine for a limited time. This prevents zombies or players from entering or exiting while active. The hack will also grant 1000 bonus points, but this can only be done once per game.
Does the Pack-A-Punch machine have a location?
Yes, the Pack-A-Punch machine is always located in a specific area of each map. The machine’s location will vary depending on the map. You will often need to progress in the game by opening doors, activating switches, or solving puzzles to access it.
Can you Pack-A-Punch a Death Machine?
No, the Death Machine cannot be Pack-A-Punched. It is a temporary, powerful weapon, but not a primary one and must be used as-is.
What does Mule Kick do, and how does it interact with Pack-A-Punch?
Mule Kick is a Perk-A-Cola that allows you to carry three weapons. While it does not directly interact with the Pack-A-Punch machine, it gives the player a larger arsenal of Pack-A-Punched weapons to use at any time. It will also allow the player to pack-a-punch more guns in one game.
How do “double tap” and “Pack-A-Punch” relate to each other?
They don’t! “Double tap” is a term used on social media platforms like Instagram, where double tapping a post is the way to like it. It has no relation to the Pack-A-Punch machine.
What does the term ‘re-pack’ mean in relation to the Pack-A-Punch machine?
The term ‘re-pack’ means to Pack-A-Punch a weapon again after it has already been Pack-A-Punched once. The results of re-packing can include the addition of attachments or modules, but also, in some games, can result in a different upgraded gun, with new perks and effects.