Complete Beginner's Guide
Everything new players need to know about Arc Raiders, from your first raid to extracting successfully.
Arc Raiders is a free-to-play extraction shooter where you compete in raids against other players and AI-controlled enemies called Arcs. Your goal is to gather loot, complete objectives, and extract before being eliminated.
Unlike traditional shooters, every raid is high-stakes -- you bring in gear and lose it if you die. But successfully extracting with loot lets you upgrade and become more powerful for future raids.
Tips
- +Your first few raids should focus on learning the maps and extraction points, not just loot
- +Watch experienced players on Twitch or YouTube to learn positioning and timing
Each raid follows a simple pattern: Drop in, scavenge for gear and loot, fight enemies (both AI and player), complete objectives, and extract at one of the designated extraction points.
The raid ends when you successfully extract, get eliminated, or the timer runs out. Time is your enemy as much as other raiders -- being caught outside when the raid ends means death.
Keep track of the raid timer at all times. Most deaths occur from poor time management, not from fights.
Tips
- +Plan your extraction route before engaging in any fight
- +Always have at least 30 seconds of buffer time to reach extraction after picking up high-value loot
When starting out, you will have limited options. Focus on reliable weapons with good ammo economy. The default pistol is perfectly viable for early raids -- do not feel obligated to bring expensive gear.
Armor is crucial in Arc Raiders. Even basic body armor can save your life in a firefight. Prioritize at least Level 1 protection before heading deeper into the raid.
Health items are essential. Always bring at least one healing item, even if you are just doing a quick scavenge run.
Tips
- +Save your better gear for when you have a full loadout -- early raids are learning opportunities
- +The pistol can actually be a deadly weapon in close quarters -- practice with it
Every map has multiple extraction points, but not all are available at all times. Some require keys or specific conditions to activate.
Extraction points are shown on your minimap. Look for the green exit icon. Note that extraction can take 5-10 seconds -- you are vulnerable while extracting.
Popular extraction points are often camped by other players. Consider using less obvious exits, especially after a successful raid.
Tips
- +Scope out extraction points during your first pass through a map
- +Throw a flare or distraction to check if an extraction is being watched
Arcs are the AI enemies that populate the maps. They range from weak basic units to powerful bosses. Understanding each type is crucial for survival.
Basic Arcs are predictable and can be easily outmaneuvered. Shoot them when safe, but do not chase them into dangerous territory.
Special Arcs have unique abilities -- some heal other enemies, some explode, some are heavily armored. Identify them quickly and prioritize accordingly.
Tips
- +Use sound to detect Arcs before seeing them -- audio cues are vital
- +Headshots deal significantly more damage to all Arc types
Other players are often more dangerous than AI. Assume any visible player is a threat until proven otherwise.
In early raids, avoid engaging unless you have a clear advantage. It is better to let others fight and pick off the winner.
Positioning wins fights. High ground, cover, and unpredictability are your friends. Peek shooting and movement matter more than pure aim.
Tips
- +If you shoot first and miss, reposition immediately -- they have now pinpointed your location
- +Nades and utilities win fights against players hiding in cover