Embark Studios has rolled out Patch 1.23.0 for ARC Raiders, a relatively focused and light update that prioritizes stability following the major Flashpoint content drop. While the patch is smaller in scope than recent additions like the new Vaporizer ARC threat and Major Map Condition, it addresses a wide range of bugs and introduces a fresh cosmetic bundle to the in-game store.
The Vanguard Set is now available for purchase, giving players a new look to equip as they continue raiding on the surface of Rubicon III. This comes as a welcome bonus for those grinding through the post-Flashpoint meta.
Live-service games like ARC Raiders naturally accumulate bugs with each new content wave. Update 1.23.0 focuses on cleaning up issues that affect core gameplay, enemy behavior, map interactions, and quality-of-life elements. Many of the fixes target annoyances that could ruin runs or create unfair situations, while others polish existing systems introduced in the Flashpoint update.
Here is the complete list of changes in ARC Raiders Update 1.23.0:
ARC Fixes
- Fixed an issue that caused Rocketeers to use the Vaporizer’s combat alert sound instead of their normal one.
Gameplay Fixes
- Fixed an issue where two Trigger ’Nades placed next to each other would sometimes deal triple damage.
- Fixed an issue that prevented items from being used as soon as possible when holding fire and quickly swapping to them.
- Fixed an issue where weapons and items would sometimes fire automatically.
- Fixed a shoulder swap problem where the camera would remain locked to one side.
- Fixed an exploit that allowed the Anvil Splitter to be used without triggering the dispersion penalty.
- Barricades can no longer be placed on ziplines.
Map Fixes
- Fixed an issue on Stella Montis where players could catch fire outside the locked room in Medical Research.
- Fixed a spot on Stella Montis where players could be shot through the floor.
- Fixed missing staircases in Buried City.
- Fixed several instances where the code printer could not be interacted with during the Locked Gate objective.
Close Scrutiny Major Map Condition Fixes
- Adjusted movement speed for Rocketeers and Vaporizers so they no longer behave strangely while idling.
- Fixed an issue where reconnected players would not see Assessor platforms correctly.
- Fixed Vaporizers getting stuck when approaching an Assessor.
- Fixed an issue that prevented Assessors from flying back into orbit.
- Fixed breach platforms breaking on an Assessor when players spammed the Breach & Search prompt, which previously stopped the platform from returning to orbit.
- All ARC summoned by an Assessor now correctly leave the area and despawn if they remain idle for too long.
- Pinging an Assessor on the map screen now accurately reflects its real location.
- Fixed a spot where players could get stuck when jumping between platforms on an Assessor.
- Fixed a location in Buried City where an Assessor and a Probe could spawn in the exact same spot.
Other Fixes
- Fixed the weapon upgrade UI showing incorrect upgrade tiers.
- Fixed an issue that caused fully transparent helmet visors.
- Fixed multiple instances where certain visual effects could cause crashes. The team continues to investigate remaining crash reports.
The patch notes show Embark is listening closely to community feedback, particularly around the new Close Scrutiny condition and the Vaporizer threat introduced in Flashpoint. Many of the Assessor-related fixes should make that challenging map modifier feel smoother and less frustrating. The Rocketeer sound fix is a small but appreciated change that restores proper audio cues during fights.
On the gameplay side, the Trigger ’Nade damage exploit and automatic firing issues were clear priorities, as both could drastically impact match fairness and player experience. The shoulder swap camera fix and Anvil Splitter exploit resolution should also improve overall combat flow.
While the update is light on new content, it demonstrates Embark’s commitment to rapid iteration. Following a large content patch like Flashpoint, quick stability updates help maintain player trust and keep the player base engaged.
Some players have already noted on forums and social media that a few persistent bugs remain unaddressed, particularly around certain visual glitches or rare disconnect issues during high-intensity raids. Embark has acknowledged ongoing crash investigations and will likely continue monitoring feedback after this deployment.
ARC Raiders continues to evolve rapidly since its full launch. The Flashpoint update brought meaningful new threats and map conditions, and patches like 1.23.0 ensure the foundation stays solid as the team prepares future seasonal content. The arrival of the Vanguard cosmetic set gives players something fresh to chase or purchase while grinding raids.
If you have encountered any bugs not listed in these notes, the community and developers are actively encouraging reports through official channels. Small patches like this often pave the way for larger seasonal updates, so expect more substantial changes in the coming weeks and months.
Overall, Update 1.23.0 feels like a necessary housekeeping release that should make raiding on Rubicon III a cleaner and more enjoyable experience. The focus on bug fixing after a big content drop is exactly what many players hoped to see. What did they miss or need to add?