ARC Raiders Expedition 5 Preparation Guide: How to Stockpile Resources Before Release?

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• ARC Raiders Phantom Targets Part 1 Fast Completion Guide | Steps to Stop Wasting Time and Resources

  Raiders, I'm sure everyone's been busy with the first part of ARC Raiders Phantom Targets project these past few days! The first part of Phantom Targets doesn't seem complicated at first glance, but once you get started, many players find that relying solely on intuition for many details is not only time-consuming but also wastes scarce resources on inefficient repetitive tasks.

  Actually, if you can slightly adjust the order and tactics of a few key steps in ARC Raiders - for example, choosing the right enclosed area and distinguishing between primary and secondary objectives - the whole process will be much smoother.

  Page 1: Repair Antennas

  The objective on the first page of Phantom Targets project is to repair three power lines on top of the elevator on the designated map. You just need to approach and perform the upgrade interaction.

  However, this part might lead to a significant misconception: the progress bar animation resets to its initial state after completion, easily causing players to mistakenly believe their actions haven't taken effect. But in reality, ARC Raiders has already recorded the number of attempts, and the mission will automatically progress after repairing the three antennas in sequence.

  Upon completing this objective, we will receive basic rewards such as Combat Mk. 3 (Aggressive), Heavy Shield, and Vita Spray.

  

  Page 2: Deal Fixed Damage Using Drive Devices

  Objective

  On the second page of Phantom Targets project, our objective is to accumulate damage using three devices: Pop Triggers (50 points), Wasp Drivers (500 points), and Leaper Pulse Unit (1000 points).

  Although these target values ​​are not high, they are easy to miss if thrown randomly - especially since Leaper Pulse Unit requires us to kill Leaper first to obtain it - once wasted, we have to hunt it again, which seriously slows down the efficiency of Phantom Targets project.

  Therefore, the core focus here is not on the throwing itself, but on ensuring that each hit deals full damage, avoiding repetitive work.

  Optimal Location

  The most cost-effective strategy is to choose the small room on the second floor of Port Authority building on Riven Tides map. It's narrow and has a lockable door, making it easy to lure the enemy inside and isolate them.

  At this point, if we throw the three types of propulsion devices at close range, the damage will almost never miss because ARC enemy cannot move and the space is enclosed, maximizing output each time.

  Enemy Selection Recommendations

  Based on practical testing, using two Leaper Pulse Units against Shredder can reliably deal approximately 320 damage. While the damage per hit isn't high, with simple and controllable operation, it can steadily accumulate to 1000 points.

  In contrast, while Bastion has more health, it moves frequently and has a wide attack range. Even if stunned, it's difficult to immobilize, significantly reducing the hit rate.

  Bastion's single-hit damage is only 20 to 30 points higher than Shredder's, but the risk and effort are multiplied, making it completely not worthwhile.

  This page rewards three ARC Raiders legendary weapons: Dolabra, Jupiter, and Aphelion, along with 50 Raider Tokens.

  Page 3: Fire Damage, Energy Weapon Kills, Launcher Ammo Weapon Kills

  Fire Damage Accumulation

  This Phantom Targets mission can be completed using Firefly Burner, Flame Spray, Fireball Burner, or Blaze Grenade, but it's most prone to inefficiency because of inappropriate target selection.

  Shredder was recommended for kills earlier, but in this mission, Shredder moves rapidly after being burned, making it difficult to sustain the fire pool's heat, resulting in very low rewards.

  The best enemy choice is Bombardier, as it tends to stand still and launch ranged attacks when enraged, making it easy to hit directly with Fireball Burner or Blaze Grenade and keep it within the fire damage range.

  Each throw reliably yields several hundred points of damage, so five to six throws will reach the 1500-point target.

  Energy Weapons to Eliminate Targeted ARCs

  In this mission, we must eliminate Bastion, Leaper, Vaporizer, or Rocketeer a total of three times (the final hit must be with energy weapons).

  The safest target is Rocketeer. We can use the terrain to maneuver at a distance of about 300 meters. Its pursuit speed is relatively slow, giving us ample time to accurately fire with Jupiter until the final blow.

  If we choose Bastion as the target, we need to first shoot its legs to paralyze it, then attack its top armor to expose its core.

  Launcher Ammo Weapons to Eliminate Flying ARCs

  This mission is relatively simple in the first part of Phantom Targets. Using Hullcracker or Rascal will suffice.

  We can prioritize targeting Flying ARCs with lower health, such as Wasp and Hornet, aiming to destroy them with a single shot.

  The map chosen is still Riven Tides, as it has the highest density of Flying ARCs, allowing us to attract many Wasps.

  If you lack any resources to help you complete Phantom Targets missions mentioned above, you can buy ARC Raiders items from IGGM.com to complete Part 1 of Phantom Targets more quickly.

  It's worth mentioning that we now have IGGM Check-in (Only for new registered users) system. By checking in regularly, you'll earn points - accumulating enough points allows you to deduct cash from your purchases or redeem coupons, making shopping at IGGM more cost-effective!

  Subsequent Unlocks

  Once you complete Part 1 of your Phantom Targets project, Part 2 will not be available immediately. You will have to wait until August 18th to unlock the new quest chain in the game.

  By choosing the correct locations and targets throughout ARC Raiders Phantom Targets missions, we can efficiently clear all obstacles and prepare for Part 2!

• ARC Raiders Store Update 1.40.0 Breakdown: Queen Stomp Bug Fix Incoming and What's Coming August 18

  While ARC Raiders has seen no major updates lately, the weekly updates continue, offering some new excitement, such as Store Update 1.40.0 released on August 4th, which added a bit of excitement to our otherwise tranquil gameplay. From new choices in the wardrobe to brand-new items that will change your combat rhythm, we've highlighted the key points for you!

  Wardrobe Update

  If you're tired of the default Volare outfit color scheme in battle, then Store Update 1.40.0 brings us two clean and crisp new color variants: Black and Yellow.

  The black version will be more suitable for ARC Raiders players who prefer low-visibility gameplay and navigating through ruins, while the yellow version significantly improves your visibility to teammates, enhancing teamwork.

  Therefore, it's best to choose a color scheme based on your preferred tactics in the game, and it can also change your gaming mood!

  

  New Project: Phantom Targets

  The highlight of Update 1.40.0 is a two-part Player Project: Phantom Targets.

  The storyline involves Shani discovering anomalies in surveillance data, but the source hasn't been identified yet - a familiar three-part routine of errands, investigation, and combat, but with a touch more strategy.

  Part One

  Players can see the first part immediately upon logging into the game, as it has been released in the game along with ARC Raiders Store Update 1.40.0.

  The first part requires us to find and repair faulty antennas on the map and to use triangulation to track abnormal signals.

  These antennas are typically located in moderately dangerous areas, so it's best to have at least one teammate on guard, as the repair process will reveal your position.

  Once the antennas are repaired, you can begin using special strategies to counter ARC enemies - perhaps you'll need to use environmental explosives, electromagnetic interference, or decoys to reduce ARC's suppressive fire, rather than engaging them head-on.

  Part Two

  Phantom Targets event will officially begin on August 18th, after the release of ARC Raiders Update 1.42.0.

  Specific details are not yet fully released, but based on the project description, it will probably introduce new target types or timed scoring rules.

  It is recommended that players not rush to complete the first part in one day, but leave some progress for around the 18th to seamlessly connect to the rewards of the second part.

  Known Bug Fixes

  Regarding the two bugs that the developers have acknowledged, Update 1.40.0 states that they are under investigation or being fixed.

  Queen and Matriarch Stomp Damage

  Update 1.40.0 acknowledges that regarding Queen and Matriarch, there are currently issues with damage hitboxes going through walls and abnormally long attack ranges.

  If you've ever been knocked down by a stomp in the basement of a two-story building in ARC Raiders, you can use a temporary strategy until this bug is fixed: when you hear heavy footsteps, prioritize moving vertically (e.g., jumping onto a high container) rather than running horizontally.

  If you must stay indoors, try to maintain at least a roll distance from walls and prepare a Shield Recharger or Vita Shot beforehand - bringing some life-saving ARC Raiders items might just save you from the bug.

  PC Game Launch Rrror Code

  Additionally, some players have reported encountering an error message upon game launch.

  The official team is investigating this issue and may release a separate patch later. Players who have encountered this problem are advised to stay tuned for future ARC Raiders announcements.

  Summer Celebration

  There's also a crossover Easter egg in Update 1.40.0 that's easy for players to overlook: to celebrate the studio's Summer Celebration, you can now unlock Azimuth Outfit - the highly acclaimed full-tactical Topside outfit - in another game, THE FINALS, by accumulating three hours of playtime in ARC Raiders.

  If you already play THE FINALS, this three-hour requirement is practically a free high-quality skin.

  You can split these three hours into two daily quests, completing your weekly tasks or gathering materials at the same time - a win-win situation.

  The event's end date hasn't been announced in Update 1.40.0 yet, but Summer Celebrations are usually time-limited, so we recommend claiming it as soon as possible.

  Get Ready to Snag Tick Hunter Set

  Update 1.40.0 also brings some good news: the official Steam Wishlist page is now open, and this bundle will be available on all platforms on August 18th. It includes:

  • Outfit: Tick Hunter - A distinctive red, white, green, and black color scheme, perfect for ambushes and camouflage in wilderness or industrial areas;
  • Backpack: Field Telephone;
  • Backpack Charm: Tick Trophy;
  • Face Style: Spider Tattoo - Suitable for pairing with helmets or bandanas;
  • Bonus: 2400 Raider Tokens, usable in the shop.

  Let's do the math: acquiring Raider Tokens and the outfit separately would likely be more expensive than the bundle, and the charm and tattoo are currently unavailable through other means.

  So if you're interested in this Tick-style set, you can check your Steam wishlist. This will also remind you to keep an eye out for Tick Hunter Set on August 18th, preventing you from missing out on potential extra discounts during the first week.

  While Update 1.40.0 isn't a major seasonal update, the phased design of Phantom Targets clearly tests new gameplay mechanics. We're most looking forward to the second phase on the 18th - after all, the official use of the term unconventional strategies often implies that ARC encounters we'll face will be anything but ordinary.

  Looking forward to the next ARC Raiders update!

• ARC Raiders Chinese Producer Interview Blows the Lid Off the Biggest Lore Secrets | Frozen Trails May Reveal More ARCs' Origins in October!

  Perhaps due to a lack of significant new developments regarding the international version, some ARC Raiders players have shifted their attention to the recently launched Chinese version, while others have begun delving into the game's lore.

  Interestingly, a connection between the two has recently emerged; the publisher of Chinese version revealed several plot-related details in a recent interview, covering topics such as the origins of ARC, the lore behind The Exodus, and more.

  Was this information revealed inadvertently, or does it serve as a teaser for a larger ARC Raiders initiative? Could it be linked to the potential Frozen Trails update coming in October? We break it all down below.

  

  What lore details have sparked speculation?

  To enhance the experience and immersion, almost every game in the survival genre constructs a post-apocalyptic backstory.

  Adhering to this convention, ARC Raiders sets its story on a future Earth. Before the apocalypse struck, the planet endured a severe ecological crisis, necessitating a period of massive reconstruction.

  During this time, vast industrial complexes and spaceports were constructed, yet they failed to halt the planet's environmental decline. Eventually, the wealthy elite evacuated to space aboard alien-tech colony ships, an event known in the game as The Exodus.

  However, the majority of the population was left behind, forced to survive on dwindling resources. To make matters worse, decades after The Exodus, the mysterious ARC arrived on Earth, launching two successive waves of attacks.

  The sheer scale of the second ARC offensive overwhelmed humanity, forcing the survivors to retreat underground.

  You, along with other players forming Raiders, are the courageous and combat-ready warriors among this underground population. You venture to the surface, braving the chaos to scavenge the resources needed to keep the underground world functioning.

  What did Chinese version interview reveal?

  While the general narrative arc of ARC Raiders is clear, many details remain shrouded in mystery, such as the true origin of ARC and the ultimate fate of those who fled Earth via The Exodus.

  Since the game's launch, answers to these questions have been largely speculative. However, a recent interview with the producer of Chinese version touched upon the game's storyline, revealing information that had never been explicitly disclosed on the English official website.

  The biggest revelation, however, is undoubtedly that the humans who departed via The Exodus ultimately settled in low Earth orbit. Previously, official lore merely stated that they had fled into outer space, without specifying a location.

  Since low Earth orbit is only a few hundred kilometers from the planet, this suggests that the evacuees were not merely occupied with building new habitats; rather, they likely kept a close watch on Earth all along.

  Subsequent details from the interview reinforce this theory, noting that the departed humans continuously deployed monitoring and automated production machinery, likely in preparation for an eventual return to Earth.

  An intriguing piece of supporting evidence is the presence of Scavenging Seed Vault on Stella Montis map, a facility that appears to be a relic of the pre-apocalyptic era.

  Had the departed humans not intended to return, they would have had no reason to construct a seed vault. After all, much like in the classic story of Noah's Ark, crop seeds are essential for sustaining human civilization.

  If this hypothesis holds true, ARC units were likely created and deployed by those who leave to monitor Earth's ecosystem and manufacture the resources needed for humanity's eventual return.

  However, for reasons unknown, the interview mentions that "contact was eventually lost." Consequently, ARC machines came to view the humans remaining on Earth as hostile targets, sparking the conflict that drives every raid you undertake.

  Raising new questions

  If the information in the interview is accurate, the core mysteries surrounding ARC Raiders storyline that initially puzzled you are largely resolved. Yet, this raises further questions, specifically, who exactly were the two parties that "lost contact"?

  There are two primary possibilities. The first is that the departed humans lost contact with those left behind on Earth, resulting in a rift where they were not only physically separated but also ideologically misaligned. This led ARC to classify surface dwellers as enemies.

  The second possibility is that the migrants lost contact with ARC units themselves. Left to operate without human oversight, the machines continued to function, ultimately executing their "monitoring" mission in completely unexpected ways.

  These two scenarios would lead ARC Raiders main storyline down vastly different paths, leaving players eager for future game updates to reveal the truth.

  Based on interviews and speculation, the first theory seems to have more player support. After all, internal human divisions and cooperation are always more compelling than a simple "robot uprising."

  Furthermore, the humans who left Earth belonged to the wealthy elite; even if they hadn't lost contact with those left behind, the passage of time and the vast distances involved would inevitably create an irreparable rift between the two groups over several generations.

  Will Frozen Trails reveal more?

  Back in May, ARC Raiders team announced a shift in their update schedule: following Riven Tides, there would be only two major updates per year. The next one on the horizon is Frozen Trails, set to launch in October.

  What we know for sure is that this update will bring a wealth of new content, including new zones and ARC enemy types, while also delving into the origins of ARC.

  When you combine this with the recent interview details, it seems likely that the information shared was intended to build anticipation for Frozen Trails months in advance, keeping players excited and curious about ARC Raiders even during the content lull.

  In short, ARC Raiders boasts impressive gameplay design and a captivating backstory that leaves plenty of room for the imagination. Even if you've stepped away due to the lack of recent updates, you'll definitely want to return in time for the October launch!

  ---

  If you plan to keep playing ARC Raiders and want to gain an edge over returning players when Frozen Trails drops, not only you should stay up to date on upcoming changes but also buy ARC Raiders items on IGGM if you need!

  Doing so will help you complete new expeditions to unlock more permanent rewards or bonuses that will give you a head start when Frozen Trails goes live!

• ARC Raiders Update 1.39.0 ABMM Matchmaking | Defensive PvP Changes Create New Problems

  ARC Raiders' ABMM matchmaking system is no longer much of a secret. If you actively attack other players, you will be placed into PvP-oriented matches. If you consistently remain friendly, you will be matched with players who behave in a similar way.

  This system appears to naturally separate the two types of players, but once everyone understands how ABMM matchmaking works, some players with bad intentions can exploit it, even in supposedly friendly matches.

  

  ABMM Matchmaking Optimization

  As the player population has declined, the official team has been continuously adjusting the matchmaking system. Update 1.38.0 was automatically applied as a hotfix. Although it appeared to be a regular shop update, it actually included an important test.

  The update mainly targeted matchmaking optimization during low player count periods, in specific regions, and under certain map conditions. The goal was to achieve more accurate matchmaking based on squad size and play style.

  This could slightly increase Q times. The official team explained that the algorithm may take a little longer to find more suitable matches. This was only a test and not a permanent change.

  More Advanced Tracking System

  The key focus of this test was player playstyle rather than simply rank or squad size. The studio used a behavior spectrum system instead of dividing players into a simple "friendly" and "aggressive" binary. The system analyzes repeated behavior across multiple raids rather than making judgments based on only one or two matches.

  The system distinguishes between players who actively initiate fights and those who only fight back in self-defense. Therefore, a single elimination will not immediately change your matchmaking profile.

  Interactions with other players that occur rarely throughout an entire raid have very little impact on the overall profile evaluation. The system separately tracks behavior depending on whether you play solo, duo, or trio modes. This means you can enter more aggressive matches with friends while still being matched into friendlier environments when playing alone.

  It should be clarified that expensive high-tier equipment does not automatically place you against stronger opponents. There is also no exclusive matchmaking system that completely removes PvP. The system only increases the possibility of players with similar styles encountering each other, but it is not absolute.

  Live Update 1.39.0

  Although Update 1.38.0 appeared to be a positive change, Live Update 1.39.0 released on July 28 caused some players to exploit the matchmaking system.

  Defensive PvP adjustment changed how defensive actions were evaluated. Previously, players who fought back against attackers would still affect their PvP tendency score. The new test removed defensive actions from affecting matchmaking style and only counted behavior where players actively initiated combat.

  However, players quickly discovered that this system contained an exploitable loophole. The method was that, in PvE-focused matches, some players with malicious intentions would deliberately jump in front of teammates or other players who were attacking large targets such as Queen, intentionally forcing themselves to be hit.

  Once these players were shot, the system would determine that they had suffered an unfair attack. They could then legally retaliate without receiving penalties for "aggressive behavior." As a result, these fake PvP players could remain in low-aggression "peaceful" matches while continuing to take other players' loot. This type of intentional provocation has caused widespread reports and complaints within the community.

  What Problems Does This Create?

  When ARC Raiders first launched in October and November 2025, matchmaking was completely random. Players never knew whether they would encounter friendly players or intense PvP battles in the next match. This uncertainty was one of the game's core appeals.

  However, the introduction of ABMM artificially divided matches into two categories: PvP-oriented and PvE-oriented. For players who only want PvE matches, being forced into PvP encounters is undoubtedly frustrating.

  How Can It Be Solved?

  Separate PvE

  Based on the current situation, many players in the community believe the ideal solution would be to return to the early fully random matchmaking system. A separate pure PvE mode could satisfy players who have no interest in PvP.

  Meanwhile, in the main PvPvE mode, ABMM system should be completely removed. In addition, adding pure team deathmatch or PvP competitive modes similar to Stella Montis could help separate different player preferences. This would allow different groups to enjoy the experience they want and potentially bring back players who left because they disliked PvP.

  Security Protocol

  Security Protocol system in China server is also considered a strong alternative solution. During an interview, ARC Raiders development team in China revealed that the official team is open to sharing ideas and data, meaning some systems from China server could influence the global version in the future.

  During testing, Security Protocol mode became increasingly popular, with around 60% of players choosing to activate it during peak hours.

  Security Protocol requires players to actively enable a red antenna marker to show hostile intent. Otherwise, they are treated as PvE players by others. This gives all players a warning instead of allowing one-sided betrayal. The design does not eliminate PvP, but instead makes hostile actions more transparent.

  Exploits and matchmaking design issues are gradually damaging ARC Raiders' fairness and replayability. At the same time, widespread cheating is striking directly at the game's foundation. To restore player trust, the development team needs to make more careful adjustments to the matchmaking system or provide an entirely different game mode.

  ---

  Being betrayed in a peaceful match is far more hateful than being killed by other players in a PvP game. If you are unfortunately killed by these despicable rats, you can buy ARC Raiders items from IGGM, then forget about ABMM matchmaking system and get your revenge on them.

• ARC Raiders Update 1.39.0 Fixes PvP Matchmaking: Self Defense Won't Penalize You Anymore!

  While there is still some time to go before the next major ARC Raiders patch arrives, the team remains dedicated to refining core mechanics and foundational systems through regular weekly updates, ensuring a more stable experience with the existing content.

  To that end, ARC Raiders rolled out Update 1.39.0 this Tuesday, July 28th. Like all weekly updates, this one brings bug fixes and new outfits, but it also introduces further optimizations to the matchmaking system.

  In fact, Updates 1.36 and 1.38, released over the past month, already included adjustments to matchmaking. So, what changes does this update bring? And are the new outfits worth getting? Let's take a look.

  

  Matchmaking adjustments based on defensive PvP behavior

  Previous adjustments in Update 1.36.0 focused on precise matchmaking based on your playstyle (whether playing solo or in squads of various sizes), while Update 1.38.0 further refined those changes.

  Update 1.39.0 shifts the focus to self-defense during PvP encounters. ARC Raiders does not strictly separate PvE and PvP modes; this means that even if your goal is simply to take down ARCs, you might still attract attacks from players who prefer PvP.

  In such situations, your instinct might be to evade the threat, but if the other player relentlessly pursues you, you will have to draw your weapon and defend yourself.

  As you know, ARC Raiders matches you with teammates and opponents based on whether your combat style is aggressive or friendly. However, it would be unfair if frequently defending yourself resulted in being matched into a chaotic, high-intensity PvP environment.

  With this in mind, Update 1.39.0 removes the influence of self-defense actions on the matchmaking system; only initiating PvP combat will now affect your playstyle assessment and subsequent matchmaking.

  Please note that this change is currently in the testing phase. It may undergo further adjustments, be fully implemented, or be scrapped entirely if the results aren't satisfactory.

  If you encounter any bugs or have unique suggestions during the testing period, please provide feedback via the in-game questionnaire. Your input helps make ARC Raiders a better game for everyone!

  What counts as self-defense?

  Based on these changes, ARC Raiders has established more detailed criteria for defining self-defense. When playing in a squad, if another team initiates any form of attack against yours, your squad is considered being in a state of self-defense.

  Your squad's future matchmaking will remain unaffected by this specific skirmish; however, the initiating team will face progressively greater consequences depending on the intensity and duration of the combat.

  Furthermore, if a third party intervenes, whether to break up the fight or to instigate a more chaotic brawl, they will also be classified as an aggressor, and their future matchmaking will be impacted accordingly.

  While this might seem unfair to players who genuinely want to play peacemaker, hardly anyone is altruistic enough to try breaking up fights in a shooter game, right? Ultimately, this rule is designed to prevent disruptive players from interfering with the action.

  Finally, all these changes are compatible with the updates introduced in version 1.36.0, demonstrating the development team's commitment to further integrating PvP and PvE elements within ARC Raiders.

  Although this makes the release of a dedicated PvP or PvE mode seem more distant, the specific format matters less as long as the combat experience remains thrilling!

  The brand new Dweller Outfit Set

  Update 1.39.0 introduces the new Dweller outfit set, featuring components such as a backpack and gloves. When fully equipped, the set clearly emphasizes a heavily armored, fully covered look, complete with protective eyewear and a mask that completely conceals your face.

  The torso gear is also incredibly bulky, reminiscent of Cold Snap update released last winter.

  Unlocking the set individually needs 1,300 Raider Tokens, but if you unlock a specific bundle that includes the set, you can unlock it for an additional 1,000 tokens.

  Keep in mind that outfit sets are primarily for cosmetic customization; if you want to boost your combat effectiveness, the key lies in acquiring rarer gear and upgrading it regularly.

  

  Trinkets can now be stacked

  ARC Raiders previously launched Forgotten Relics Event in Update 1.33.0, allowing players to earn Merits and redeem them for various rewards, including a range of trinkets. The game now allows you to stack these trinkets.

  More bug fixes

  In addition to the new changes mentioned above, ARC Raiders brings a series of general bug fixes. Of particular note is a fix addressing inconsistent damage output from Seeker and Wolfpack.

  Once thrown, ARC Raiders Seeker Grenade locks onto the nearest ARC enemy and detonates upon impact. Wolfpack can launch up to 12 missiles, locking onto all ARC targets within its radius.

  This means both pieces of gear are highly useful, whether you are tackling standard Trials or special raids, so ensuring they function correctly is crucial.

  Speaking of the trials, Season 5 Week 4 trials have arrived alongside Update 1.39.0, featuring five specific missions.

  To complete all missions with a three-star rating before the event ends, you will need the right strategies and powerful gear. Don't delay, get started now! Plus, you can also test the new matchmaking system firsthand!

• ARC Raiders Harvester Puzzle Guide: How to Get Jupiter and Equalizer Weapon Blueprints Fast?

  Almost every Raider knows how crucial the weapon blueprints for Equalizer and Jupiter are to ARC Raiders.

  These two weapons are arguably the core indicators of a player's or team's late-game maturity, possessing devastating power in PvE, especially against high-difficulty mechanical bosses in the late game, where they outperform regular ARCs. However, not all players possess them.

  As high-value weapon blueprints, the primary way to obtain them in the game is still by farming Harvester Puzzle.

  

  Harvester Puzzle

  Spawn Points

  Harvester Puzzle typically spawns as a limited-time map event for ARC Raiders, guarded by Queen.

  Its main spawn maps are:

  • Dam Battlegrounds
  • Spaceport
  • Blue Gate

  Of course, you can check the icon in Speranza lobby map interface to see where it lights up. Harvester Puzzle lasts for about an hour, after which it transitions to the next environment, so it's recommended to go there immediately after checking the icon's location. 

  Key Features

  Harvester Puzzle revolves around speed and puzzle-solving, with a continuous 45-second cycle (charging, discharging, fire-breathing), severely testing players' speedrunning abilities.

  Therefore, your task isn't to defeat Queen outside, but to quickly infiltrate the interior and solve the puzzles.

  Completion Guide

  1. Collect and Insert Power Canisters

  After entering, use the elevator to reach the upper area. You'll need to use melee attacks or shooting to forcefully break through the upper metal panels to find hidden Power Canisters(3 are needed; sometimes one is lying on the ground).

  The facility's high-temperature defense system will activate periodically (the interior will glow orange or blue). When the system activates, you must immediately find cover or temporarily leave to avoid being burned by the flames.

  Blue light indicates an impending EMP impact, which only breaks the shield without causing damage (you can remove the shield to become immune to damage).

  A flashing orange and red light accompanied by a rapid alarm indicates that a full-scale firestorm will occur in 3 seconds, instantly burning your character to death. You must immediately escape the cabin for safety.

  After successfully escaping, forcibly break open the slot at the bottom of the central pillar (Queen will release a brief stun current upon breaking it; it is recommended to remove your shield beforehand to prevent it from shattering). Insert all 3 collected Power Canisters into the connected terminal.

  2. Destroy the Yellow Button

  After inserting all Power Canisters, Harvester will completely shut down, and 3 separate reward containers will pop up around the central pillar. Opening these containers will give you a chance to obtain high-tier loot and the extremely rare weapon blueprints for ARC Raiders Jupiter, and Equalizer.

  To prevent enemy players from ambushing you outside, it is recommended that you immediately place the blueprints into a Safe Pocket and quickly head to the extraction point after obtaining them.

  Weapon Configurations

  Targeting the characteristics of Harvester Puzzle and for a safer extraction, here are two optimal weapon configurations after ARC Raiders 1.38.0 update. These configurations feature high burst damage, rapid shield breaking, and node-breaking kills, allowing you to more safely obtain Jupiter and Equalizer.

  First Configuration

  Primary Weapon: Renegade

  Renegade is the primary damage-dealing weapon, effectively dealing with Queen guarding the outside and large numbers of ARC robots. Its high single-shot damage and accuracy allow you to quickly clear the area before entering Harvester.

  Secondary Weapon: Stitcher

  Stitcher is primarily used for melee combat and emergency shield breaking, suitable for defense and quickly breaking shields in the event of sudden external conflicts.

  Second Configuration

  Primary Weapon: Renegade

  Same function as the first configuration, but easier to obtain and more suitable than other ARC Raiders Weapons with similar functions.

  Secondary Weapon: Scambler

  After planting all Power Canisters in the first step of Harvester Puzzle, a yellow node will pop up on the central pillar. Using Scambler at close range, you can kill a node in just two shots, making it faster and less strenuous.

  Besides weapons, there are some essential items that you should carry regardless of your build:

  Crowbar

  Used for quickly prying open vents to infiltrate and for prying open second-floor panels to retrieve Power Canisters.

  Surge Coil

  While prying or planting Power Canister, place it at the only main entrance and vents on the first floor of Harvester to effectively prevent other Raider teams from sneaking in and attacking.

  Looting Mk. 3 (Safekeeper)

  While regular safe pockets usually have restrictions on what items can be put in, ARC Raiders Looting Mk. 3 (Safekeeper) not only allows you to put in any item in the game, but you can also take the items out even if you are knocked down.

  Therefore, after completing Harvester Puzzle and obtaining Jupiter and Equalizer weapon blueprints, place them along with your primary weapon into Safe Pocket provided by Looting Mk. 3 (Safekeeper) to prevent them from being stolen.

  Since a Harvester Puzzle only rewards three chests, and only one Jupiter or Equalizer blueprint will appear at a time, if you are in a multiplayer group, only one person can obtain the blueprint. The player who doesn't get it needs to re-enter and try again.

  Therefore, some players prefer to operate solo, making the three ARC Raiders Items mentioned above essential. In addition, there are some tips suitable for solo players, the essence of which lies in avoiding combat, removing the shield, speed, and quick escape through tunnels.

  Tips

  1. Removing the Shield for Infiltration

  Observe the patrol routes of ARC Queen on the outer perimeter. The instant you enter the facility's main gate or ventilation shaft, immediately manually remove your shield from your inventory. This perfectly negates the severe stun and vulnerability caused by the pulse shield breaking.

  2. Quickly Transport Power Canisters

  After entering the first floor and picking up the canister in its designated location, quickly insert it. Then, take the elevator directly to the second floor and find the remaining two Power Canisters. Don't carry them up the stairs; throw them directly to the first floor.

  If you hear three alarms or the sealed compartment lights up with an orange-red light, don't hesitate; run.

  3. Instantly Eliminate Alarm Nodes

  Use ARC Raiders shotgun recommended in your weapon configuration. Run and fire simultaneously; you can clear the nodes in about three seconds.

  4. Instant Escape Through the Tunnel

  After solving the puzzle, open the two chests closest to you in the center. With luck, you might find the blueprint for either Jupiter or Equalizer. Once you find them, immediately put them in your Safe Pocket. Don't linger in the red zone; quickly move to the nearest Raider Hatch to escape.

  If your strength and time allow, you can also try defeating Queen outside, as it, being a high-level boss, has a chance to directly drop the blueprints for these two legendary weapons. Even without the blueprints, it will drop the rare material needed to craft these weapons - Queen Reactors.

  In short, if you want to quickly acquire the blueprints for Jupiter and Equalizer, or already own them but want to farm more for trading on the market, ARC Raiders Harvester Puzzle is your best choice.