Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Zombies - How To Unlock SAM Trials

Black Ops 6 - How To Unlock SAM Trials
Credit: Activision

Black Ops 6 - How To Unlock SAM Trials
Credit: Activision

S.A.M. Trials in Black Ops 6 Zombies are unique, randomized challenges designed to break up the traditional gameplay loop and introduce new ways for players to engage with each match.

This tests players on tasks such as rapid zombie kills, precision shooting, or objective-based actions within limited zones. This article outlines how to unlock and complete the S.A.M. Trials in Black Ops 6 Zombies for maximum rewards.

How To Unlock SAM Trials in Black Ops 6 Zombies

S.A.M. Trials become available after activating the power in your current map area.

Call of Duty Black Ops 6 screenshot
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Credit: Treyarch & Raven

Shortly after, look for a signal in the form of a purple Aether cloud in the sky, which indicates that an S.A.M. Trial is available.

Head towards the light source, which leads you to the trial machine. You’ll notice it marked on your Tac-Map, especially around rounds 8–10, so watch for these indicators to make locating it easier.

The machine is typically located in high-traffic areas, so be prepared for potential challenges when approaching it.

After locating the machine, approach and interact with it to initiate a trial. Activating a S.A.M. Trial costs 500 Essence for the first trial, but this amount may rise in later rounds.

These trials could require completing different objectives, such as securing specific kill counts, defeating zombies within a time limit, or using specific weapons or items.

For instance, one trial may require eliminating ten zombies within two minutes using the ARC-XD car or eliminating 45 zombies while crouching. However, the game provides aids to help make these trials manageable.

Special zombies with glowing purple eyes will spawn for the trial to ensure you have enough enemies to meet the objective, even if you're nearing the end of a round.

The game also temporarily grants you specific buffs tailored to each trial’s goal, giving you an edge for the objective you're tackling.

For trials requiring explosive kills or close combat, the game may grant the PhD Flopper perk, which protects against self-damage and boosts melee attacks.

Once the trial begins, the machine will also display your progress so you can monitor your success in real time. If you complete a trial, you’ll earn a Legendary Reward.

This reward is typically a golden loot crate filled with items such as Salvage, Essence, and rare weapons like Monkey Bombs.

However, the claiming process takes a few seconds as items are presented in a menu, so avoid doing this while surrounded by zombies.

Failing to meet all objectives may still grant you minor rewards, though not at the level of the Legendary crate.

Attempting multiple trials across the match provides cumulative benefits that can greatly enhance your gear and resources.

Which S.A.M. Trial has been the most challenging for you so far? Comment down below!

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