ARC Raiders Gameplay Tips: Second Wave Machines and Strategies

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If you’ve spent any time in ARC Raiders, you’ve probably heard players talking about the “Second Wave.” It’s a term that can be confusing for new and even some experienced players, because it isn’t just a story concept—it directly affects how the game plays. In this guide, I’ll break it down from a practical perspective, focusing on what most players actually experience and how the Second Wave shapes gameplay.

What is the Second Wave?

In general terms, the Second Wave refers to the current generation of ARC incursions on Earth. Raiders sometimes use it casually to talk about the newest and more advanced ARC machines you’ll encounter. Unlike the First Wave, which consisted of rudimentary and often predictable machines, the Second Wave introduces enemies with upgraded designs, more aggressive tactics, and higher durability.

Most players notice that even standard encounters feel tougher during the Second Wave. Machines like Barons and Queens are considered entirely new iterations rather than simple upgrades—they behave differently, have more complex attack patterns, and often require coordinated team play to handle effectively.

How Does the Second Wave Affect Gameplay?
Are missions harder than before?

Yes, in general. For much of the Second Wave, most encounters happened during short forays onto the surface. That meant Raiders were constantly exposed to hostile territory, often without much cover. Players usually approach missions more cautiously than they did in the First Wave, and you can expect higher casualties if you rush in unprepared.

However, the game has evolved. Recently, some efforts have been made to establish surface outposts, giving players safe zones to regroup, trade, and resupply. These outposts are not everywhere, and many are heavily contested, but they provide a noticeable difference in how players plan their movements and team strategies.

How Should I Approach Combat During the Second Wave?

Most players adapt to the Second Wave by changing both their gear and tactics. Here are some practical tips based on common behavior:

Stay mobile. Second Wave machines are smarter and often try to surround or corner players. Staying in one spot usually leads to trouble.

Use environmental advantages. Barricades, high ground, and natural cover are more useful now than in the First Wave. Many players use hit-and-run strategies instead of straight confrontations.

Team coordination is crucial. Solo raids are possible, but Barons and Queens usually require at least two players working together. Most groups divide roles—one player focuses on damage, another on crowd control or defense.

Upgrade your equipment regularly. ARC Raiders is a game where gear progression matters. Players who delay upgrading weapons or exosuits often find the Second Wave machines much harder to handle.

An interesting note: some newer players focus heavily on buy rare ARC Raiders items easily on U4N. While this isn’t necessary to enjoy the game, having access to upgraded gear does make a difference when facing the tougher Second Wave machines.

What Are the Most Notable Enemies of the Second Wave?

The Second Wave introduced several machine types that have distinct behaviors. Knowing these differences is key to survival:

Barons: Usually larger than standard enemies and pack more firepower. Most players approach Barons with caution, often coordinating attacks to exploit weak points.

Queens: These are even tougher, often requiring specific strategies to defeat. Queens may summon minions or alter the battlefield, so most players treat these encounters like mini-boss fights.

Standard ARC Units: Even ordinary machines have smarter AI compared to the First Wave. They patrol in groups, use cover, and sometimes coordinate attacks.

In practice, you’ll find that recognizing patterns is more important than raw firepower. Experienced players often study machine movements and attack timing before committing to a full engagement.

How Do Outposts Change Player Behavior?

Outposts have shifted how players interact with the world. Before, most surface excursions were short raids with high risk. Now, with outposts:

Players plan longer excursions. Having a safe location to fall back to allows for multi-stage objectives and longer missions.

Raiding becomes more tactical. Players often leave supplies at outposts or coordinate multi-team attacks on high-value targets.

Community hubs form naturally. Even in general gameplay, you’ll notice that outposts act as gathering points where players share intel, strategies, or trade items.

In practice, most Raiders use outposts not just for survival but as strategic bases. Understanding how to leverage them is a major part of playing effectively during the Second Wave.

How Does the Lore Affect Gameplay?

While knowing the backstory isn’t required, understanding the Second Wave lore can help explain why machines behave the way they do. For example:

The Second Wave machines are “significantly improved” compared to the First Wave. This means they have better AI, more aggressive combat routines, and stronger defenses.

Some machines, like Barons and Queens, are considered entirely new designs. This distinction isn’t just lore—it reflects gameplay changes, like new attack patterns and higher health pools.

The establishment of outposts mirrors the gradual shift in gameplay from constant exposure to more tactical surface operations.

Most players notice that knowing the lore helps them anticipate changes in enemy behavior and plan their missions accordingly.

Common Player Questions About the Second Wave

Q: Can I still handle Second Wave machines solo?
Usually, yes, if you’re well-prepared and know the enemy patterns. However, the most challenging units almost always require at least one teammate. Solo runs are possible, but they often take longer and demand careful strategy.

Q: Are there specific builds that work better?
Most players find that builds prioritizing mobility, defense, and ranged damage are effective. Crowd-control abilities are also more valuable now than in the First Wave because of smarter enemy groups.

Q: Should I focus on story missions or side raids?
In general, a balance works best. Story missions introduce new enemies and gear, while side raids provide opportunities to practice against Second Wave machines and gather resources. Experienced players often alternate between the two to steadily improve their equipment and skills.

Q: How important is gear progression?
Very important. Second Wave machines hit harder and have better defenses. Most players prioritize upgrading weapons, armor, and exosuits before tackling more challenging enemies. Some newer players even buy rare ARC Raiders items easily on U4N to speed up this process, though it’s possible to progress purely through gameplay.


The Second Wave represents a clear shift in both the story and the mechanics of ARC Raiders. It introduces smarter, tougher enemies, changes how players approach missions, and encourages more strategic use of the environment and outposts. Most players adapt by coordinating in teams, upgrading gear regularly, and learning enemy patterns rather than relying on brute force.

In general, understanding both the lore and the practical mechanics of the Second Wave helps players survive longer, plan more efficiently, and enjoy the game on a deeper level. If you take the time to observe enemy behavior, use outposts strategically, and maintain your equipment, the Second Wave can feel challenging but fair, offering a steady progression curve for both new and experienced Raiders.

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