ARC Raiders can look intimidating at first, especially when you drop into your first few raids with barely any gear. But once you understand how the systems connect, it quickly becomes one of those “just one more run” kind of games. Here is what you should focus on early on to make your first hours a bit smoother.
What to Focus On as a New Player
Do not rush to grind or hoard loot. The early game is all about learning how stamina, combat, and extraction work. Take a few runs just to experiment with weapons and movement. Once you get a feel for it, you will start improving fast.
Use Your Gear Instead of Saving It
A common mistake new players make is holding on to rare gear for “later.” However, you should use your best weapons and shields as soon as you get them. Every run is a chance to test something new and get better with it.
Try the Free Loadouts
Free loadouts are your best friend early on. They come with random basic gear and no risk, letting you explore or complete missions without losing anything. You will find the option at the top of the loadout screen.
Upgrade Stamina Early
Stamina drains fast when running, dodging, or climbing. Make it your first upgrade. Adrenaline Shots also help a lot and can be crafted from basic materials once you get used to the system.
Watch Your Surroundings During Extraction
Extraction zones are prime spots for ambushes. Always scout before calling an elevator and use smoke grenades to block vision. If it looks sketchy, try another extraction point instead of risking it.
Make Use of the Workshop
Your Workshop is where the real progress happens. It lets you craft weapons, gear, and consumables using the resources you collect. Spend time learning how it works early on, because it will pay off later when you start unlocking better recipes.
Say Hello to Scrappy
Scrappy is your little loot rooster back at base. He gathers materials while you are out raiding, so visit him after every run to pick up what he found. Upgrade him as soon as you can so he starts bringing back better resources.
Plan Your Upgrades
If you are saving premium currency, use it for stash expansions or high-tier gear slots. Those upgrades are worth it long-term. Also, remember that guns sell for a good chunk of coins, so do not keep extras if there is no need.
Bring the Right Tools
Utilities are ridiculously strong in ARC Raiders and can easily save your life. Smoke grenades, barricades, Arc Lures, and ziplines all have their uses:
- Smoke grenades help you heal, loot, or extract safely.
- Barricades and mines can protect doors in key rooms.
- Arc Lures are great for distracting enemies or sending Arcs after other players.
Always bring at least one. You will be surprised how many situations they can solve.
Locked Doors = Best Loot
If you find keys, use them. Locked rooms usually hold rare loot and crafting materials, but they also attract attention. Secure the area first, then grab what you can.
Bring More Ammo Than You Think
You never have enough ammo. Bring extra for every raid, even if it means carrying less loot. Running dry in a fight is one of the fastest ways to die in ARC Raiders.
Take Your Time and Have Fun
ARC Raiders is not a game you rush. It rewards patience, awareness, and smart decisions. Learn how to move quietly, plan your routes, and listen to your surroundings. Once you get into the rhythm, the whole thing just clicks.
In the long run, it is better to learn and progress than rush and burn out.
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