The Eyes and Ears mission stands as a pivotal Tier 4 challenge within the Black Mous faction in Warzone 2’s DMZ mode. Players must navigate the treacherous terrain of Ashika Island to secure a critical piece of intel hardware, deploy it in a heavily fortified enemy stronghold, and escape without failure. Success grants valuable Double XP tokens alongside a substantial 15,000 XP boost, propelling faction progress.
Understanding the Mission Framework
This high-stakes operation revolves around three core objectives, all executable in a single deployment to avoid resets. The sequence demands precision: acquire a Discrete Radio Transmitter, infiltrate Tsuki Castle, plant the device, and exfiltrate promptly. Familiarity with Ashika Island’s layout, especially from prior missions like Whistleblower, proves advantageous.
Black Mous Tier 4 missions escalate difficulty, pitting players against elite Shadow Company forces, robotic sentries, and environmental hazards. Preparation involves loadouts optimized for close-quarters combat, ample ammo, and utility for breaching defenses.
Step 1: Securing the Discrete Radio Transmitter
Begin by targeting the Beach Club Dead Drop, situated in the southwestern quadrant of Ashika Island. This dumpster hides behind a gas station directly across from the City Hall Hideout, marked around grid E6 on most maps.
- Approach from the south to minimize exposure to patrolling AI.
- Scan for nearby threats; the area sees moderate foot traffic.
- Interact with the dumpster (typically ‘F’ key) to claim the transmitter, instantly completing the first task.
This step is straightforward but sets the tone—carry the item securely without dropping it during transit.
Step 2: Breaching Tsuki Castle Perimeter
Tsuki Castle looms as the mission’s centerpiece, a multi-level fortress swarming with Shadow Company operatives. Entry demands overcoming the patrolling Wheelson—a durable robotic unit—and potentially locked doors.
| Method | Pros | Cons | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheelson Hack | Free access to all doors; reusable | Requires EMPs/thermites; risky fight | Target legs with explosives, then hack downed unit. |
| Tsuki Castle Key | Direct door unlock; stealthier | Rare drop; key-specific doors | Acquire from buy stations or AI drops. |
Opt for the bridge-adjacent door post-breach. Clear sentries and trip mines immediately upon entry to secure your path upward.
Step 3: Navigating Castle Interiors
Once inside, ascend through the castle’s labyrinthine halls. Expect resistance from riot shield bearers, snipers, and the formidable Bombmaker boss on upper levels.
- Main Hall: Neutralize initial sentry gun and AI clusters.
- Stairwells: Watch for trip mines and descending heavies; flank riot shields.
- Top Floor: Eliminate Bombmaker (ignore Weapon Case distraction), then locate the planting site.
The journey tests map knowledge—stick to right-side paths post-main square for optimal cover.
Step 4: Planting at the Central Security Desk
The climax occurs atop the castle in the Bombmaker’s former room. The central security desk, identifiable by its array of monitors, sits between dual staircases in the southwest corner.
Clear the room thoroughly, then interact (‘F’) to plant the transmitter beneath the desk. Objective two completes instantly, but linger only to loot if time permits.
Step 5: Successful Extraction Tactics
Exfiltration seals the deal—head to the nearest point without delay. Ashika Island offers multiple sites; prioritize those south or east of the castle to evade pursuit.
- Call in exfil early to reduce timer pressure.
- Use smoke grenades for cover during approach.
- Avoid over-looting; speed trumps gear here.
Failure to extract resets the mission, forfeiting progress.
Loadout and Gear Recommendations
Success hinges on tailored equipment. Prioritize SMGs or shotguns for CQC, paired with lethals like Semtex for Wheelson and shields.
| Category | Recommended | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | Ripper or Lachmann Sub | High fire rate, mobility for castle clears. |
| Lethal | Semtex/Thermite | Wheelson disable, shield breaks. |
| Tactical | Smoke/Flash | Exfil cover, room entry. |
| Perks | Double Time, Battle Hardened | Sustained movement, trap resistance. |
Pack extra plates and a self-revive for solo runs.
Common Pitfalls and Mitigation
Many fail due to overlooked hazards:
- Wheelson Overconfidence: It withstands small arms; explosives mandatory.
- Trap Oversights: Check corners for mines before advancing.
- Distraction Lures: Skip Weapon Case—it’s a time sink.
- Team Wipes: Coordinate pings; solo players hug walls.
Practice runs without the transmitter build familiarity.
Rewards and Progression Impact
Completion yields immediate Double XP (usable in multiplayer/warzone) and 15,000 XP toward Black Mous ranks. This unlocks subsequent Tier 4 content and contributes to overarching storylines, including Redacted faction ties via castle revisits.
Advanced Strategies for Speedruns
Veterans aim for sub-10 minute clears:
- Pre-scout Dead Drop en route to castle.
- Third-party ongoing fights at Tsuki for weakened foes.
- Exfil via helicopter for quickest escape.
Squads divide tasks: one grabs transmitter, others prep breach.
Integration with Broader DMZ Meta
Eyes and Ears exemplifies DMZ’s extraction-shooter evolution, blending PvE intensity with risk-reward looting. Mastery here enhances Ashika viability, a resurgence map post-resurgence modes.
Track patches—Season 4/5 tweaks balanced Wheelson durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete Eyes and Ears solo?
Yes, with strong CQC loadouts and Wheelson knowledge. Squads ease castle clears.
What if I lose the transmitter?
Restart deployment; it doesn’t persist.
Is Tsuki Castle key essential?
No—Wheelson hack suffices.
Does planting alert enemies?
No immediate aggro, but clear room first.
Any prerequisites?
Tier 4 Black Mous access; Whistleblower familiarity helps.
References
- Warzone 2 DMZ: Eyes And Ears Guide — DualShockers. 2023-10-01. https://www.dualshockers.com/warzone-2-dmz-eyes-and-ears-mission-guide/
- How to complete the Eyes And Ears mission in DMZ Warzone 2 — Destructoid. 2023-10-01. https://www.destructoid.com/how-to-complete-the-eyes-and-ears-mission-in-dmz-warzone-2/
- Eyes and Ears (Black Mous) GUIDE | DMZ Season 4 — YouTube (Video Guide). 2023-10-01.
- Eyes and Ears Mission Guide For Season 4 Warzone DMZ — YouTube (Video Guide). 2023-10-01.
- DMZ Eyes and Ears Mission Guide Season 5 MW2 Warzone — YouTube (Video Guide). 2023-10-01.
- How To Complete the EYES AND EARS Tier 4 story mission — YouTube (Video Guide). 2023-10-01.

