Modern Warfare 3 Zombies: Aetherium Crystals Farming Guide

Aetherium crystals are a hot commodity in Call of Duty's new open-world Zombies experience, Modern Warfare 3 Zombies (MWZ). These consumable items allow players to instantly upgrade their weapon's rarity tier or Pack-a-Punch level, saving considerable time and effort. For those looking to collect more raw, refined, and flawless Aetherium crystals, here are some tips.

How to Farm Modern Warfare 3 Zombies Aetherium Crystals

Here are the best ways to farm Aetherium Crystals in Modern Warfare 3 Zombies:

1. Complete Contracts for Reward Rifts

The most direct way to obtain Aetherium crystals is by finishing contracts in MWZ. Upon completing bounties and missions in the higher challenge tiers, players will unlock special reward rifts with valuable loot inside.

• While not guaranteed, these rifts have a chance to contain all three tiers of Aetherium crystals.
• Raw crystals have the highest drop rate, but refined and flawless crystals can also appear. Gamers willing to take on elite challenges have the best odds.
  

2. Loot the Undead and the Environment

As players battle through hordes of increasingly dangerous undead, they can collect crystals directly from fallen enemies.

• Certain special zombies like Bombers, Breachers, and Armored Minibosses have better chances than standard walkers.
• The sprawling environment of Al Mazrah also holds crystals if gamers take time to scour the nooks and crannies outside main routes.
• Supply caches, lootable vehicles, and other points of interest across the zones may generate crystals.
• Exploring off the beaten path boosts acquisition chances.

3. Obtain and Use Aetherium Schematics

In addition to collecting the crystals themselves, crafty undead slayers can get their hands on Aetherium Schematics. These allow players to craft their own crystals for a limited time before the schematic expires.

• Schematics are also a potential reward from completing high-difficulty contracts and looting subsequent rifts.
• Once a schematic is in inventory, gamers can produce more crystals on demand instead of relying solely on loot drops.

4. Tier 3 Zones - High Risk, High Reward

For those truly obsessed with stockpiling Aetherium reserves, targeting Tier 3 zones offers the greatest risks along with the greatest rewards. Taking on elite undead like the fearsome Abomination can yield schematics, crystals, and other coveted items.

Summary

Successfully clearing out the infestation in areas like the Al-Malik International Airport and the Volunteer Rifles Infantry Base will push crystal quantities to the limit. Stay sharp though - the devastating undead hordes in these areas can quickly overwhelm any wayward survivors.

With some skill, strategy, and luck, players can amass a handy stockpile for rapidly upgrading weapons in the most chaotic battles. Aetherium crystals take some work to obtain but provide a lifesaving edge when the undead masses close in. Now get out there and start looting!