Embark Studios is flipping the script on how you earn skill points in Arc Raiders with their next Expedition Window kicking off April 28th. Instead of grinding for stash value like before, now it’s all about dealing damage. Yep, you’ll have to actually put your weapons and gadgets to work over the five days to snag those sweet skill points.
Skill Points Now Earned Through Combat, Not Loot
Previously, players earned skill points by gathering stash value – basically collecting and hoarding coins and loot during Expeditions. Embark Studios isn’t a fan of that grind anymore. They explained, “We know that grinding for monetary value isn’t the most exciting experience.” So now, your goal is to rack up damage against any target (except the practice range) during the Expedition window. Hit those enemies hard to grab all 5 skill points, whether it’s your first or third Expedition.
Everyone who’s completed their Caravan will automatically get the challenge; you don’t need to sign up separately to see it. You’ll have exactly five days, from noon UK time (1pm CEST) on April 28th until early May 4th, to finish it. That means you’ll be actively pushing damage for the whole window, keeping you engaged instead of sitting on coins.
Catch-Up System Returns for Missed Skill Points
If you missed out on skill points during previous Expeditions and are heading into your second or third trip, there’s a catch-up system. To unlock it, you first need to complete the damage challenge for the current Expedition. After that, you can make up to 5 skill points by earning 300,000 coins or stash value per skill point. This catch-up mechanic doesn’t apply to first-timers, so newbies won’t get overwhelmed with extra tasks.
How to Join the April 28 Expedition
Here’s the quick rundown to get started:
- Finish the Caravan if you haven’t already. You can start contributing to it right after your last Expedition or immediately if this is your first one.
- Wait for the Expedition Window to open at 1pm CEST (April 28th).
- Sign up during the five-day window.
- Complete the damage challenge to earn your skill points.
- Use the catch-up mechanic if you’re on your second or third Expedition and need to recover missed points.
- Depart with your team on Monday at 9am CEST.
Remember, finishing the Caravan doesn’t automatically sign you up for the Expedition – you have to actively register during the window. Expeditions are personal progressions you tackle in order, so keep an eye on those dates.
New Map Tracker and Future Improvements
Embark Studios also dropped a handy new tracker on the official Arc Raiders website last week. It shows current map conditions and even previews what’s coming in the next few hours. You can filter by map or conditions, giving you a leg up on planning your strategy.
As the community buzzes about these changes, it’s clear Embark wants to keep the game fun and less grindy, pushing players to get in the action. With this update, Expeditions will feel more dynamic and rewarding, encouraging you to use your loot rather than stash it away.
So whether you’re a seasoned Raider or just gearing up for your first run, get ready to deal some serious damage starting April 28th.
