Unlocking the Pack-a-Punch machine in the Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 remastered version of Shangri-La requires coordination, timing, and an understanding of the map's unique pressure plate system. Unlike traditional Zombies maps where you simply turn on power and open a door, Shangri-La forces players to work together to activate a temporary stairway leading to the weapon upgrade station. Navigating this temple landscape becomes significantly easier once your squad knows the exact steps required to raise the staircase.

Turning On the Power in the Temple

Before you can attempt to access the Pack-a-Punch machine, you must first restore electricity across the entire facility. Navigate through the jungle paths and underground caves to reach the power room located near the waterfall area. Flipping the two main power switches will activate all map traps, perk machines, and the pressure plates required for the upgrading process.

Coordinating the Pressure Plate Mechanism

Once power is restored, four distinct stone pressure plates will become active across the main surface and underground areas of the map. To open the path, every player in the game must stand on their designated pressure plate at the exact same time. In solo play, you only need to step on a single plate to trigger the mechanism, making the process much simpler for individual survivors.

Reaching the Pack-a-Punch Machine

When all pressure plates are activated simultaneously, water will begin flowing down the main temple steps to form a temporary staircase. Players must quickly sprint back to the starting spawn area at the base of the temple before the timer expires and the stairs recede. Reaching the top allows you to access the Pack-a-Punch machine to upgrade your weapons for 5,000 points.

Managing the Staircase Timer

The stairs leading to the upgrade altar will only remain open for a short duration before collapsing back into a waterslide. If you are still standing on the temple stairs when the timer runs out, you will be washed back down to the spawn area. Coordinating with your teammates ensures everyone gets a chance to upgrade their weapons before needing to trigger the pressure plates again.