10 ARC Raiders Tips That Aren't Obvious (And Will Actually Keep You Alive)

So, you've read the beginners guide and you're not completely lost anymore. Maybe you've even managed a successful extraction or two without crying. Progress!

But ARC Raiders has layers, like a rusty, blood-stained onion. Just knowing the basics won't cut it when you're facing down tougher ARC machines, sneaky player squads, and the ever-present threat of running out of ammo or time. It's time to sharpen your skills. Here are 10 tips that go beyond the fundamentals.

Beyond the Basics: Getting Less Dead

These aren't secrets whispered on the wind, just solid tactics and knowledge that separate the survivors from the scavenged corpses. Pay attention, maybe you'll learn something.

1. Slide Down Hills Like a Pro (and Heal?)

Stamina is everything in this game. Running out leaves you dead in the water. But here's a trick: sliding downhill actually regenerates stamina while you're still moving fast. Some even say it helps you heal faster, like in Apex Legends, though I haven't personally confirmed that miracle cure. Holstering your weapon (5 key) also makes you sprint faster.

2. Don't Underestimate Your Fists (or Knife, or Whatever)

Yeah, guns are great, but melee is surprisingly useful. It can one-hit weaker ARC enemies like Ticks and Wasps, silently take out annoying turrets, and even catch other Raiders off guard in close quarters. Don't forget you have it.

3. Shields Are Ablative, Not Extra Health

This kills new players constantly. Your shield absorbs some damage, but you still take health damage underneath it. You can absolutely die with a full shield if your health is low. Always heal your actual HP first when you take damage, then worry about recharging your shield. You can get shield power cells from dead ARC Drones.

4. Craft Mid-Raid, Not Just at Base

Your Workshop back in Speranza isn't the only place to craft. You can (and should) craft basic necessities like bandages, shield rechargers, grenades, and even ammo right in the middle of a raid using salvaged materials. Just be aware that salvaging junk topside gives you half the resources compared to doing it safely back at base. Still worth it in a pinch. We'll get deeper into skills in the .

5. Master the Art of the Dirty Extraction

Getting to the extraction point is only half the battle. Elevators and subways are noisy death traps. Raider Hatches (using keys) are quieter but still risky. You can actually trigger the extract panel even while downed and crawl your ass to freedom. You can also try a last-second dash through closing elevator doors. Or, if you're feeling particularly scummy, knock out another player who's extracting and piggyback on their escape.

6. Target the Glowy Bits on the Robots

Don't just spray and pray at the big ARC machines. They have weak points. Drones usually have vulnerable thrusters. Bigger bots like Bastions often have weak spots on their legs or back. Learn where to shoot to take them down faster and save precious ammo.

7. Feed Your Damn Rooster

Scrappy, your little rooster buddy back at base, isn't just decoration. He passively gathers crafting materials for you while you're out risking your neck. Visit him after every run to collect what he found. More importantly, upgrade him in the Workshop as soon as you can. Better Scrappy means better (and more) free loot.

8. Shoulder Swap is Not Optional

This is basic, but so many people forget it. Hit 'X' to swap which shoulder your camera is looking over. This is absolutely crucial for peeking corners safely without exposing your whole damn body. Use it constantly.

9. Gadgets Win Fights

Don't sleep on your utility slots. Gadgets like Smoke Grenades, Arc Lures, Mines, and Ziplines can completely turn the tide of a fight or secure a risky escape. Smokes are cheap and invaluable for safe looting, healing, or extracting. Arc Lures can distract bots or even sic them on other players. Always bring at least one utility item.

10. Sometimes, Alarms Are Your Friends

Red lights mean alarms – cameras, metal detectors, car bumps. Usually, you want to avoid or silently disable these. But, sometimes leaving an alarm intact can work in your favor, acting as an early warning system if another Raider stumbles into it. Think tactically.

Remember, this game doesn't have seasonal wipes like most extraction shooters. The gear you earn and the knowledge you gain sticks around. Learn from your deaths, apply these tips, and maybe you'll start actually building some wealth.

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