Welcome, Raiders! This guide compiles key strategies and mechanics to help you survive, explore, and thrive in the world of ARC Raiders. Whether you're just dropping in or looking to refine your tactics, these tips will give you an edge.
1. Master the Parkour & Movement System
Safe Descents: When falling, hold SPACEBAR to ARC Raiders Items automatically grab onto ledges, ladders, or ropes to prevent fall damage. This is often more reliable than the landing roll (CTRL).
Rope Warning: You cannot grab a rope if you've been in freefall for too long. Plan your jumps early.
Stamina Management: Use sliding liberally. It does not consume stamina and actually regenerates it while sliding. Alternate between sprinting and sliding for efficient, sustained travel.
Situational Awareness: You can freely look around (including behind you) while sliding.
Sprint Speed: Press H to holster your weapon and run faster while traveling.
2. Player Interaction & PvP
Use the "Don't Shoot!" emote (default G) to communicate peaceful intentions. Most players are friendly, but always be cautious.
Recommended Approach: If unsure of another player's intent, use cover and emote to probe. There's no need to force an encounter—maintaining distance is often the safest strategy.
3. Combat & Enemy Weak Points
Drones: Always aim for weak points.
Wasp (machine gun): Target its four fans.
Hornet (electric shock): Target the two fans on its rear.
Destroying these fans will destabilize them.
Early Game Weapon: The Iron Rod is highly recommended. It hits hard and can one-shot a drone's weak point with precision.
Arc Encounters: In the early game, avoid confronting Arcs directly. They are extremely powerful. Engage only when you are well-prepared.
4. Loot, Resources & Audio Cues
Arc Power Battery: Dropped by destroyed Arcs. Assign it to a quick slot (press Q to use) for an instant 2-bar shield recharge. A lifesaver during exploration.
Listen Carefully:
Ticking Sound: A Raider's Cache is nearby.
Buzzing Sound: An Arc Detector is nearby, containing Arc Parts (crucial for repairing blue-tier shields).
Other Loot Sources:
Airdrops: Call them in and wait for them to land for weapons/ammo.
Cargo Crates: Take them to a nearby warehouse terminal to dismantle for resources.
5. Progression & Skills
Skill Tree (Careful Allocation!): Points cannot be reset. A recommended early path is:
Marathon Runner & Vitality Lungs: For stamina efficiency and pool.
In-Turn Crafting: Craft items like bandages on the fly (requires cloth).
Broad Shoulders & Lucky Scavenger: For increased carrying capacity and better loot.
Ammo Mule (Adaptability Branch): Reduces weapon weight.
Major Capstone Skills: Current consensus is that the final talents are not overpowered. Prioritize the essential utility skills first.
Upgrade The Roost Early: Level up your home base (The Roost) as a priority. Higher levels grant more passive materials per match. Early upgrade materials (lemons/apricots) can be found south of the blue gate in the Abandoned Village and Olive Grove.
6. Useful Mechanics & Habits
Season Pass Hook: The free tier on page 3 offers to buy ARC Raiders Station a grappling hook cosmetic. Using it allows for direct building climbs—a powerful mobility tool.
Inventory Management: In the staging area, hold CTRL to multi-select items and SHIFT to move stacks quickly.
