Arc Raiders Introduces PvE Event and Rewards in Latest Update as Duplication Glitch is Resolved

Embark Studios has unveiled update 1.15.0 for Arc Raiders, which introduces a new event centered on player versus environment (PvE) gameplay and a host of new rewards, all while finally addressing a well-known duplication bug. The patch notes reveal a substantial update leading up to the anticipated Shrouded Sky content launch in February. Fans eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new Arc threat and Raider Deck will find that update 1.15.0 revitalizes a beloved event and introduces a fresh gameplay mode along with various cosmetics to earn. Players returning to the world of Speranza will encounter the Shared Watch, which is the highlight of this update. Running until February 24, this limited-time event encourages players to join forces with both friends and strangers to combat the Arc and earn merits. These merits can be exchanged for rewards that include useful items like a Vita Spray or an acoustic guitar, as well as permanent unlocks such as the Slugger set and a quirky rooster-sized helmet for Scrappy. To gain merits, players must focus on defeating Arc, as the event is strictly PvE, meaning no merits can be accrued through player-versus-player (PvP) battles. According to the studio, "The Shared Watch is an annual celebration that serves as a reminder of the true enemy while honoring those who protect their fellow Raiders. Whether you choose to cooperate or confront the Arc, it’s all part of the Shared Watch spirit." Additionally, the winter Cold Snap event has made a comeback as a map condition following its removal last month. Players will notice that the Trailblazer has been adjusted to reduce its damage against larger Arc enemies like Leapers and Bastions, while also eliminating its ability to deal damage through walls. While the aforementioned changes are significant, one of the most crucial updates came in the form of a hotfix released shortly after the patch went live. Embark announced via social media that this hotfix effectively removes the item duplication glitch that had recently resurfaced. As the studio tackles ongoing issues with cheating, they also stated that players who exploited the glitch to duplicate items excessively will face further scrutiny and potential penalties. "There’s nothing quite like earning your loot the right way, so get back out there and collect those coins honestly!" Players had been utilizing the latest iteration of the duplication glitch to wrongly amass items and quickly accumulate in-game currency, leading to some unusual scenarios where Raiders stumbled upon vast quantities of valuable items. Embark continues to follow its Escalation roadmap, which promises new map conditions, additional Arc threats, a new map, and other content by the end of April. The next Expedition is set to commence on February 25, which will include adjustments for players dissatisfied with the previous rank reset feature. In a recent interview, Embark CEO Patrick Söderlund discussed the post-launch roadmap, the consequences for cheaters, and the studio's future plans to engage PvE players, as well as touching upon how the success of Arc Raiders has positively influenced the team. The complete patch notes for update 1.15.0 outline all changes made.