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ARC Raiders

ARC Raiders

By ···10 min read·Multi-source verified
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ARC Raiders is a thrilling cooperative sci-fi shooter set in a dystopian future where humanity fights for survival against a ruthless alien threat. Developed by Embark Studios, this third-person, open-world experience throws you and your squad into intense battles across PC and current-gen consoles. You'll need to master the unique Raider archetypes and coordinate your efforts to overcome overwhelming odds, conquer enemy factions, and survive the relentless onslaught of the ARC.

This guide is your essential companion to mastering ARC Raiders. We'll cover everything you need to know, from getting started with installation and understanding the core mechanics to advanced combat strategies and effective weapon usage. Prepare to tackle challenging mission objectives and achieve victory, whether you're playing on PC or PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X.

Getting Started

New to ARC Raiders? This guide breaks down the basics, from surviving in Speranza to venturing into the dangerous surface. Learn about ARC, raiders, and extraction.

Category

Getting Started

New to ARC Raiders? This guide breaks down the basics, from surviving in Speranza to venturing into the dangerous surface. Learn about ARC, raiders, and extraction.

Sections in this chapter (9)
Controls & UI — ARC Raiders Guide
Learn the essential controls and user interface elements of ARC Raiders. Master movement, combat, and inventory management with our comprehensive guide.
Installation & First Launch
Get ARC Raiders up and running with our easy-to-follow installation guide. Learn how to download, install, and launch the game for the first time, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.
Beginner Tips
New to ARC Raiders? Master the basics with our beginner tips guide. Learn about quests, looting, combat, and essential early-game strategies to survive and thrive.
Character Creation & Customization
Learn how to create and customize your character in ARC Raiders. Discover options for appearance, gear, and loadouts to personalize your Raider.
Understanding the UI & HUD — ARC Raiders Guide
Navigate the complex UI and HUD of ARC Raiders with our comprehensive guide. Understand every element to gain a tactical advantage and survive the alien threat.
Basic Controls & Movement — ARC Raiders Guide
Learn the essential controls and movement mechanics in ARC Raiders. Master your character's abilities to navigate the environment and outmaneuver enemies effectively.
Understanding the ARC Threat
Learn about the different ARC enemy types in ARC Raiders, their behaviors, and how to counter them to survive the relentless robotic onslaught.
Core Gameplay Loop: Deploy, Defend, Extract
Master the core gameplay loop of ARC Raiders: Deploy into hostile territory, defend your objectives against the ARC menace, and successfully extract with your loot and intel.
Loadout Customization
Learn how to customize your loadouts in ARC Raiders. Discover weapon attachments, armor upgrades, and tactical gear to optimize your combat effectiveness and prepare for any mission.

Controls & UI — ARC Raiders Guide

Learn the essential controls and user interface elements of ARC Raiders. Master movement, combat, and inventory management with our comprehensive guide.

This guide covers the controls and user interface for ARC Raiders. Understanding these elements is crucial for effective gameplay, from movement and combat to managing your inventory and interacting with the world.

ActionButton
Move ForwardW
Move BackwardS
Move LeftA
Move RightD
JumpSpacebar
CrouchCtrl
SprintShift
InteractE
ReloadR
Primary FireLeft Mouse Button
Secondary Fire / Aim Down SightsRight Mouse Button
Melee AttackF
Use Ability 11
Use Ability 22
Use GrenadeG
Weapon Wheel / InventoryTab
MapM
PingQ
Open MenuEsc

Installation & First Launch

Get ARC Raiders up and running with our easy-to-follow installation guide. Learn how to download, install, and launch the game for the first time, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.

This guide covers the initial steps for getting ARC Raiders installed and ready to play. Follow these instructions to begin your journey as an Arc Raider.

Walkthrough
  1. 1
    Download the Game: Access the game through your chosen platform's store (e.g., Steam, Epic Games Store).
  2. 2
    Installation: Once purchased or claimed, initiate the download and installation process. Ensure you have sufficient disk space and a stable internet connection.
  3. 3
    First Launch: After installation, launch ARC Raiders from your game library. The game may perform a final setup or download additional files on the first launch.
  4. 4
    Account Setup: You may be prompted to create or log in to an account. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete this step.
  5. 5
    Tutorial: Upon successfully launching the game, you will likely be guided through an introductory tutorial to familiarize yourself with the basic controls and mechanics.
Tips
  • Ensure your system meets the minimum or recommended hardware requirements for ARC Raiders before installation.
  • Keep your graphics drivers updated for optimal performance.
  • If you encounter any issues during installation or launch, consult the game's official support channels or community forums.

Beginner Tips

New to ARC Raiders? Master the basics with our beginner tips guide. Learn about quests, looting, combat, and essential early-game strategies to survive and thrive.

Welcome to ARC Raiders! This guide provides essential tips for new players to get started. Learn about quests, how to gather resources, and basic combat strategies to help you survive the harsh world.

  • Quests: Available from traders, quests guide your progression and offer rewards.
  • Looting: Containers and specific items marked with a yellow glow are quest-related. Items needed for quests are not consumed.
  • Combat: Use explosive grenades to take down ARC enemies and learn enemy weaknesses.
  • Progression: Quest progression is shared with teammates, and the order can vary.
  • Exploration: Key locations include Field Depots, Raider Hatches, and various buildings across different maps like Dam Battlegrounds and Spaceport.

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