Embark Studios has released Live Update 1.29 for ARC Raiders, addressing widespread player backlash by altering the game’s controversial weapon durability mechanics. The deployment comes alongside the introduction of new anti-cheat measures and additional late-game content, marking a notable shift in how the developer manages the extraction shooter’s sandbox balance.
The core of the patch focuses on Tier 1 weapons, which players argued were breaking far too quickly during active matches. To remedy this, the update significantly increases the lifetime of several firearms; the Renegade received a 54% boost to its overall durability, while both the Ferro and Canto saw an 18% increase. Embark Studios noted that these changes target the worst offenders in the arsenal to ensure a more equitable experience during prolonged deployments.
Security also takes a front seat in this update as the studio rolls out Denuvo Anti-Cheat to a limited pool of players. While the integration aims to curb an uptick in malicious software usage, the developer clarified that they are strictly using Denuvo’s anti-cheat framework rather than its controversial Digital Rights Management (DRM) software, which is frequently blamed for degradation in PC game performance. The system will expand to the broader player base following an initial monitoring phase.
For high-level progression, players who have reached Level 25 can now access a new nomadic trader named Ermal in Speranza. This merchant allows veterans to barter rare materials and weapons for valuable utilities, including expanded stash space and an Expedition Vault capable of securing up to five items safely between matches.
The update introduces the Rascal as well, a lightweight sidearm grenade launcher designed as an alternative to the heavier Hullcracker for dealing structural damage to ARC targets. While it features a slower reload time and less predictable aiming mechanics, the sidearm offers compact anti-armor capabilities. Additional adjustments include a 50% power cost reduction for the Photoelectric Cloak, improved area-of-effect healing for the Tactical Mk. 3 Augment, and various structural collision fixes to prevent automated enemies from dealing unfair knockback.
