Following the inaugural Expedition Window, Embark Studios has announced changes to the next one in Arc Raiders, launching April 28. Players will earn skill points by dealing damage rather than gathering stash value, aiming to make the event more engaging and less grindy.
Arc Raiders' Expedition feature allows players to voluntarily reset their leveled characters and stash for a simulated five-day adventure, earning rewards like cosmetics, XP boosts, inventory expansions, and skill points. Embark Studios revealed details for the upcoming Expedition Window, starting at 12 noon UK time (13:00 CEST) on April 28 and running until 9:00 CEST on May 4.
In a blog post, the developer announced that skill points will now be earned through damage dealt to targets (outside practice ranges) using any weapon or gadget, applying to first, second, or third expeditions. All players who have completed their Caravan will receive the challenge automatically. The shift from stash value grinding addresses player feedback, with Embark stating: 'We know that grinding for monetary value isn't the most exciting experience. By introducing damage-based objectives and trials instead of stash value, we're providing more freedom and variety... encouraging the use of loot rather than hoarding it.'
Catch-up mechanics for second or third expeditions remain tied to stash value (300,000 coins per skill point) after the damage challenge. Players must sign up separately during the window: complete Caravan, wait for the window, sign up, complete challenge, catch up if needed, and depart (Mondays at 9am CEST).
Last week, Embark added a map conditions tracker to the website for monitoring current and upcoming conditions, filterable by map or type. These updates aim for a 'fair and engaging challenge that keeps everyone active across the full 5 days,' prioritizing fun over grinding.