Embark Studios has released the complete patch notes for Arc Raiders update 1.17.0, detailing a series of nerfs affecting both PvP and PvE enthusiasts diving into the Shrouded Sky expansion. The specifics were shared on the extraction shooter's official site today, promising players will encounter more than just Hurricanes and new Arc threats upon logging in for the February content release.
PvP participants should note that three key multiplayer weapons—the Stitcher, Kettle, and Venator—have seen reductions in their base damage. Additionally, the Stitcher and Venator pistols have had their headshot multipliers lowered. These targeted nerfs from Embark are expected to significantly influence PvP matches, while buffs to the Jupiter and Aphelion aim to enhance their overall utility.
PvE players might welcome improvements to two energy weapons, but they also face nerfs. Specifically, crafting the Deadline, Trailblazer, Wolfpack, and Showstopper has become more challenging. Embark now requires players to collect at least one extra Arc resource to construct these items. For instance, the Vita Spray needs an additional Tick Pod, whereas the Wolfpack demands a rare Rocketeer Driver per craft, making it a substantial adjustment for PvE fans.
Shrouded Sky marks one of Embark's largest updates to date, with patch 1.17.0 introducing several highlights since its launch earlier today. Players can now interact with pianos topside, expanding the roster of playable instruments. Raiders will also find that troublesome feats can be rerolled three times daily, and PvP feats have been eliminated. The notes conclude with a team message on anti-cheat efforts, reaffirming their commitment to penalizing cheaters and exploiters after addressing additional glitches.
With Shrouded Sky live, Embark is halfway through its four-month roadmap for Arc Raiders in 2026. The upcoming Flashpoint update in late March is set to bring more threats and Scrappy changes, followed by Riven Tides in April, which will add a new map and a large Arc. In a recent interview, studio CEO Patrick Söderlund discussed plans to keep players engaged throughout the year and beyond.
For a full breakdown of all nerfs, buffs, and balance tweaks, refer to the complete patch notes below.
Violent hurricanes now rage topside, forcing new strategies for low-visibility combat, powerful gales, and flying debris. Scouts have identified two new ARC types in the Rust Belt; caution is advised during the storm, but those adept at reading the weather may find opportunities in the chaos.
Shrouded Sky update: The hurricane strikes
In version 1.13, an optimization fix for weapons unintentionally lowered the fire-rate of semi-automatic weapons. This was reverted in 1.13.1, but an unintended 'shadow buff' allowed players to spam-click, bypassing skill requirements. To balance responsiveness and skill expression, Embark has adjusted weapon input buffering on a per-gun basis, making semi-automatic weapons more responsive while rewarding paced shots.
Additionally, Embark is addressing balance between low and high tier weapons, where some lower-tier options outperformed costlier ones. Changes include reducing the time-to-kill (TTK) for the Stitcher and Kettle, increasing maneuverability for the Aphelion and Jupiter, and further nerfing the Venator, which remains dominant in PvP.
Dev Note: The Stitcher's fast TTK, especially with headshots, led to quick ambush kills. Adjustments aim to align headshot and body shot TTK by reducing full-spray accuracy and the headshot multiplier.
Dev Note: The Kettle was intended for medium-range use but often served as an SMG in close quarters. Base damage is reduced to normalize TTK, while the high headshot multiplier encourages precision.
Dev Note: Despite prior nerfs, the Venator continues to excel in PvP. An overall damage nerf aims to lower its TTK, with potential future adjustments to ammo and cost efficiency.
Dev Note: The Jupiter excels in headshot damage but is tricky at long range and vulnerable up close. ADS zoom is increased for better targeting, and equip/unequip times are reduced for easier weapon switching.
Dev Note: The Aphelion, a PvP-focused legendary weapon, felt bulky. Tweaks make it nimbler to improve viability in PvP.
Item values and costs have been adjusted with corresponding recycle and salvaging changes.
In anti-cheat efforts, Embark emphasizes the complexity of detection, using behavioral analysis, telemetry, and machine learning. Recent actions include stricter penalties for exploits, with permanent bans for severe cases and temporary suspensions for others. Family Sharing updates enhance misconduct management, and a manual review of ban appeals is in development. The dedicated anti-cheat team remains committed to maintaining fair play.
//Ossen and the ARC Raiders Team
