Key Facts
- ✓ Embark Studios released update 1.11.0 for Arc Raiders.
- ✓ The Kettle fire rate was reduced from 600 to 450 to prevent macro usage.
- ✓ The Trigger 'Nade detonation delay increased from 0.7s to 1.5s.
- ✓ A key card exploit allowing players to keep used keys has been fixed.
- ✓ Arc Raiders has sold over 12 million copies since launch.
Quick Summary
Embark Studios has deployed update 1.11.0 for Arc Raiders, bringing a mix of new content and essential game balance adjustments. The primary focus of this patch is to address player concerns regarding the overperformance of specific weapons and exploits that have impacted the competitive environment.
The update introduces the Abyss cosmetic set for players to acquire. However, the core changes lie in the balancing of the Kettle and the Trigger 'Nade. These adjustments aim to level the playing field by curbing unfair mechanics and excessive dominance in combat scenarios. Additionally, the developers have patched a key card bug and tweaked environmental lighting to enhance gameplay immersion.
Kettle Balancing: Addressing Macro Usage
The Kettle weapon has received a critical adjustment in update 1.11.0 to combat unfair gameplay practices. The development team identified that the weapon's previous fire rate was creating an imbalance that favored players utilizing external software.
Specifically, the fire rate has been reduced from 600 to 450. The developers noted that the previous speed was only realistically achievable by players using macros, which creates an unfair dynamic. By lowering the rate of fire, the weapon becomes more dependent on player skill rather than automated inputs.
"The previous fire rate was only realistically reachable by players using macros, which creates an unfair dynamic that favors using third-party software."
— Embark Studios
Trigger 'Nade: PvP Dominance Curbed
The Trigger 'Nade has been a staple in player inventories due to its overwhelming effectiveness. The developers acknowledged that this grenade currently dominates PvP encounters, noting that players favor picking it over all other grenades available in the game.
To address this, the update introduces several specific nerfs designed to reduce its utility as a 'trigger-in-air' weapon while preserving its role as a sticky bomb:
- Damage Falloff: Rebalanced to concentrate damage closer to the center of the explosion, dealing less damage at a distance.
- Detonation Delay: Increased from 0.7s to 1.5s, giving players more time to react to the grenade.
- Air Detonation: The increased delay makes it significantly harder to time detonations while the grenade is in the air.
Quality of Life and Exploit Fixes
Beyond weapon balancing, update 1.11.0 addresses specific bugs and map adjustments. A significant key card exploit has been fixed, which previously allowed players to keep room keys even after using them. This fix ensures that resource management remains a core part of the game's loop.
Additionally, environmental changes were made to the Stella Montis Night Raid map. Lighting has been lowered in specific areas, a change intended to make the use of flashlights and listening more relevant to survival and tactical awareness.
Game Context and Player Base
Arc Raiders continues to be a significant title in the extraction shooter genre. Since its launch at the end of October, the game has sold over 12 million copies, cementing its status as one of the biggest games currently available.
To celebrate this success, the developers recently announced a free gift for all players. The game continues to generate discussion regarding its matchmaking algorithms and aim assist mechanics, topics that remain relevant within the community.
"Trigger 'Nade currently dominates PVP encounters, and players favour picking it over all our other grenades."
— Embark Studios
