Arc Raiders Guide – 12 Survival Tips for the Rust Belt
ARC Raiders, the new extraction shooter from Embark Studios, immerses you in a world where you must scavenge for resources in the harsh wastelands while battling hostile robots, drones, and enemy players. To help you survive and thrive in this unforgiving environment, we've compiled 12 essential tips in our Arc Raiders Guide to improve your gameplay and ensure your success in the Rust Belt.
1. Matchmaking: Play Solo or Join a Squad
Once you’ve completed the prologue and entered Speranza, you’ll face the decision of how to approach the scavenger runs:
- Solo Runs: You can start solo runs by selecting a map after hitting the "Play" button. Solo players are often matched with others for a more dynamic experience.
- Squad Runs: Form a team with up to 3 players. Add friends through Embark IDs or click on the “Fill Squad” button for automatic matchmaking.
- Crossplay: Enable crossplay to join players on different systems, expanding your multiplayer experience.
2. Map Layouts: Know Resource Types and Extraction Points
The Rust Belt has four massive maps, each with unique areas and loot. Here’s what you need to know:
- Blue Gate: Pilgrim’s Peak offers technological and electrical resources, while the Ancient Fort provides both tech and rare "old world" items.
- Extraction Points: Ensure you know where to extract! Pay attention to Raider Hatches, Cargo Elevators, and Airshafts—vital for escaping with your loot.
3. Loadouts: Choose the Right Equipment for Survival
Before each match, customizing your loadout is essential. Here’s what to consider:
- Augments: Select augments that enhance your ability to heal, use grenades, and gain other bonuses.
- Weapons & Ammo: Equip up to two weapons and ensure you carry the right ammo type.
- Shield: Use shields to absorb damage, saving your health for more critical situations.
- Free Loadout: If you’re looking for a low-risk run, choose the Free Loadout for basic gear and fewer slots.
4. Containers: Check Everything, but Manage Your Inventory
Containers are an important part of the game. While opening them makes noise and takes time, it’s always beneficial:
- XP Gain: Each container you open grants experience points.
- Inventory Management: Keep an eye on your inventory space; only carry what you need to maximize efficiency and avoid losing important items.
5. ARC Enemies: Scan the Skies and Eliminate Threats
The world of ARC Raiders is crawling with enemies, from drones to massive armored walkers:
- Enemy Types: Always keep an eye out for flying drones, turrets, and other hostile units. Ping them for your teammates.
- Weapon Penetration: Be aware of your weapon's ARC Armor Penetration. Some guns, like the Ferro or Hullcracker, are more effective against machines.
6. Consumables: Use Healing, Shield Restorers, and Revive Items
Your survival depends on the strategic use of consumables:
- Health & Shield: Bandages heal over time, and Shield Rechargers restore energy.
- Reviving Teammates: Use Defibrillators or simply hold the Interaction button to revive downed players.
7. Stamina: Conserve it for Key Moments
Stamina management is critical in ARC Raiders:
- Sprinting: Avoid constant sprinting, as it drains stamina quickly.
- Slide: Use the slide mechanic to save stamina and remain mobile without exhausting your reserves.
- Holster Weapons: Running without weapons speeds up your movement and saves stamina.
8. Escape: Know Your Extraction Points
Survival in ARC Raiders is all about getting out alive:
- Extraction Points: Raider Hatches are the quickest way out, but you need a key. Other points like Airshafts or Cargo Elevators are often under enemy surveillance, so be cautious.
- Ambush Strategy: Reach extraction points early to set ambushes for other players trying to escape.
9. Personal Stash: Organize Your Loot
Your stash is essential for storing gear:
- Expand Your Stash: Purchase extra slots to store more items.
- Recycle & Sell: Dismantle or sell unwanted items for currency, or recycle them into components for crafting.
10. Skill Tree: Level Up Your Character
Choose your perks carefully to suit your playstyle:
- Skill Trees: Invest points in Conditioning, Mobility, or Survival to unlock useful perks.
- Strategic Spending: Prioritize the skills that best complement your approach to combat and exploration.
11. Speranza: The Heart of Your Operations
Speranza isn’t just a safe zone—it’s where you craft and interact with NPCs:
- Vendors: Buy new equipment and take on side quests.
- Workshops: Use collected resources to build workshops for crafting higher-tier weapons and consumables.
12. Multiplayer: Cooperation is Key
Though PvP is a major part of ARC Raiders, cooperation can be just as rewarding:
- Team Up: Communicate with nearby players using proximity chat and work together to take down enemies.
- Form Alliances: Sometimes, forming a temporary alliance with other squads can help you overcome tough enemies, such as the towering walkers.
Conclusion
Surviving in ARC Raiders takes skill, strategy, and teamwork. By following these 12 survival tips, you'll be better prepared to tackle the dangers of the Rust Belt, maximize your loot, and succeed in the world of ARC Raiders. For more strategies and tips, check out our arc raiders guide for beginners and other guides to improve your skills and help you dominate the game!