Changes to Arc Raiders Expedition Requirements: A New Approach

Embark Studios has announced significant changes to the reward structure for the upcoming Arc Raiders Expedition, set to open on April 28, 2026. Unlike previous Expeditions, where players earned rewards based on stash value, the new system will require players to deal damage to enemies over a five-day window to earn skill points. This shift aims to enhance gameplay engagement by moving away from resource grinding.

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The Expedition window will commence on April 28 at 13:00 CEST (11:00 UTC/04:00 PT) and will close on May 4 at 09:00 CEST (07:00 UTC/00:00 PT). Players must complete their Caravan and sign up during this window to participate. The new damage challenge will allow players to earn up to five skill points by dealing damage with any weapon or gadget against any target, excluding practice range scenarios.

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Previously, players needed to accumulate stash value—approximately $3 million worth of items—to earn skill points. The new system eliminates this requirement, focusing instead on damage dealt. Players who have completed their Caravan will automatically receive the challenge, and they will have five days to complete it. Additionally, players who missed skill points in previous Expeditions can catch up by building stash value, but they must first complete the damage challenge.

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Embark Studios stated, “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 in how you can complete the Expedition.” The studio emphasized that these changes are intended to make Expeditions more enjoyable and engaging, reducing the feeling of an endless grind.

A Triumphant Exit

Participants in the Expedition will receive various permanent rewards, including:

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• The evolved Patchwork outfit and new toggles for customization.

ARC Raiders Reveals Major Change for Third Expedition

• An increase in stash space, with 12 additional slots granted per Expedition.

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• Skill points awarded based on the damage challenge, with a maximum of five skill points available for the current Expedition and catch-up opportunities for previous ones.

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While the changes have been generally well-received, some players express concerns about the new damage challenge potentially becoming a grind in itself. Critics argue that while the removal of stash value requirements is a positive step, the focus on damage may still lead to repetitive gameplay.

Embark admits 'grinding for monetary value' isn't fun, so future Arc Raiders Expeditions will reward you for smashing bots instead

The third Expedition will conclude with the introduction of the fourth Expedition, which is expected to bring new content and features. Embark Studios has committed to gathering player feedback to refine future Expeditions and ensure that rewards are meaningful and reflective of player achievements.

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• “Above all, we want expeditions to be fun and not an endless grind.” — Embark Studios

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The upcoming changes to the Arc Raiders Expedition reflect Embark Studios' commitment to enhancing player experience by shifting the focus from resource accumulation to active gameplay engagement.

ARC Raiders Reveals Major Change for Third Expedition