The latest update for ARC Raiders is a small but important hotfix that targets one of the game’s most disruptive exploits while laying groundwork for the upcoming Flashpoint expansion. Patch 1.21.0 focuses on stability, fairness, and a light batch of cosmetic additions rather than major gameplay changes.
1. Wall Exploit Finally Removed
The headline change is the removal of a long-standing wall-clip exploit that had been heavily abused across matches.
- Players could previously walk through walls by interacting with items like Fuel Cells or Field Crates
- This allowed access to restricted loot areas and unexpected flanking routes
- The exploit enabled unfair ambushes and map-breaking positioning
With 1.21.0, that behavior has been fully patched, restoring intended map boundaries and improving competitive integrity. This fix is especially significant given how widespread the exploit had become in live matches.
2. New Raider Tool: Spyglass Set
Spyglass Raider Tool
A new melee-focused cosmetic tool, Spyglass Set (Raider Tool), has been added to the store. Spyglass Set is priced at 700 Coins and includes three items.
- Spyglass Staff (Raider Tool) priced at 500 Raider Tokens
- Globe (Backpack Attachment) priced at 300 Raider Tokens
- Spyglass (Backpack Charm) priced at 300 Raider Tokens
3. New Backpack: Cartographer Set
Cartographer Backpack
Alongside the new tool, a themed backpack set joins the store rotation. This bundle groups together a backpack cosmetic and matching accessories that share an exploration/fieldwork theme.
- Cartographer Backpack (Backpack cosmetic) — 600 Raider Tokens
- Maps (Backpack Attachment) — 300 Raider Tokens
- Sundial (Backpack Charm) — 300 Raider Tokens
Like the Raider Tool, this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect inventory stats or capacity.
4. Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements
Most of the patch is dedicated to fixing technical issues and improving performance consistency. Below are key fixes included in the latest patch.
- Resolved DirectX 11 crashes, improving stability on older systems
- Fixed players getting stuck inside the Harvester or debris
- Corrected ARC enemies spawning inside geometry
- Improved collision behavior for destroyed ARC parts
These changes target some of the more frustrating edge cases that could break runs or cause unexpected deaths.
5. Flashpoint Update Is Next
Flashpoint Update
This hotfix is essentially a lead-in to the bigger Flashpoint update, scheduled for March 31, 2026. That expansion is expected to bring the following changes.
- New map condition: A fresh environmental mechanic arrives with Flashpoint, distinct from previous conditions like Hurricane or Electromagnetic Storm. It’s represented by a lightning‑style icon on the roadmap and will alter how raids play out.
- A new ARC threat: Flashpoint introduces another enemy type into the ARC roster. The exact behavior and role haven’t been detailed in official notes yet.
- New Weapon: According to a teaser shared by Embark on X, Shani is testing a new weapon in her shop to fight against ARC. We can see a new launcher ammo type weapon, which can deal high damage to help with the new upcoming ARC.
- New Player Project: Like past seasonal challenges, Flashpoint includes a new Player Project goal. These projects give players long‑term objectives tied to rewards and progression.
- “Scrappy” system updates: The update description in the roadmap explicitly lists changes to Scrappy — the game’s barter/resource system. Early reporting suggests this could improve or expand how crafting, trading, or material progression works, though precise mechanics were not listed at the time of the roadmap release.
- New quests and activities: Flashpoint will ship with additional quests or objectives beyond the core pillars, adding content variety and ways to engage with the evolving meta.
- Cosmetic gear and QoL improvements Alongside system changes, the Flashpoint update is expected to include fresh cosmetic options and additional quality‑of‑life tweaks bundled into the release.
