ARC Raiders Update 1.20.0: IL Toro Nerf, New Cosmetics & Flashpoint Preview

A recent update to the online multiplayer shooter ARC Raiders has sparked debate among players, not over technical adjustments or weapon balancing, but over the quality and design of new cosmetic items offered for purchase within the game.

The update, released on March 17th, included a range of aesthetic additions alongside technical fixes and weapon tweaks. Among these was the “Rawhide Outfit,” available for 1100 Raider Tokens – the game’s in-game currency. Players have expressed disappointment that the outfit, although offering a new visual style, lacks accompanying items like a new backpack or emote, leading some to consider it a limited value proposition given its price point. Two new hair styles were also added, offering players more granular control over character customization.

The controversy surrounding cosmetic “skins” in ARC Raiders is not new. Embark Studios, the game’s developer, previously stated its intention to avoid the overly elaborate or outlandish designs common in titles like Fortnite or Call of Duty, opting instead for a more grounded aesthetic consistent with the game’s setting. However, a significant portion of the player base believes the current designs fall short of expectations.

The “Devotee Outfit,” released in a prior update, drew criticism for being perceived as illogical or incongruous with the game’s overall style. This recurring dissatisfaction has prompted players to question the design team’s decision-making process at Embark Studios. The debate highlights a clear divide within the community, with some players favoring realistic and understated designs, while others desire more distinctive and unconventional options.

The update also included significant changes to the IL Toro weapon, reducing its damage output, rate of fire, and accuracy. Prior to the update, the IL Toro’s damage was 7.5, now It’s 7. Its rate of fire was reduced from 43 to 38, and shot spread increased from 4.5 to 6. Reload times were also increased, from 4.3 seconds to 5.7 seconds, with adjustments to both the initial and subsequent reload speeds. The distance at which the weapon loses damage was also increased from 40% to 50%. These changes aim to reduce the weapon’s effectiveness, particularly when utilizing the “Choke” technique, requiring players to rely more on precise positioning and timing during engagements.

Alongside the weapon adjustments, several bug fixes were implemented, including a resolution to an audio issue where the sounds of Comets and Fireballs would persist after their destruction. Collision issues within the Dam Controlled Access Zone and near an elevator in the Spaceport were also addressed. The price of Energy Clips was reduced from 1000 to 200 Coins, after they became an easily exploited source of in-game revenue, disrupting the game’s economic balance.

Embark Studios has confirmed that the next major update, “Flashpoint,” is scheduled for release sometime in March, potentially on either March 24th or 31st, following the studio’s pattern of releasing updates on Tuesdays. “Flashpoint” will introduce a new ARC threat, a new map condition, and a new Player Project, with further details expected shortly before launch.