Understanding Extraction Zones in ARC Raiders
Extraction Zones in ARC Raiders are high-risk areas where players call an elevator to escape the map with their loot. Understanding how the elevator works is critical for surviving late-game encounters.
Critical Warning
The extraction zone is where most raids are won or lost. A successful extraction can turn a mediocre raid into a great one – but a failed extraction means losing everything you've collected.
Calling the Elevator
To extract, interact with the Extraction Console at an Extraction Zone. This begins the extraction sequence – but it also alerts everyone nearby.
What Happens When You Call
- The elevator does NOT arrive immediately
- Creates loud noise and visual signals
- Attracts ARC machines and other players
- Enemies can push you while waiting
Elevator Arrival & Boarding Phase
When the elevator arrives, the doors open – but your danger isn't over yet. This is actually one of the most dangerous moments in the game.
Key Facts
- Elevator remains open for limited time
- Players can still enter during this window
- Other players CAN board your elevator
Critical Danger
Anyone – friendly or hostile – can enter the same elevator, even if they didn't call it. Expect company.
Elevator Departure (Extraction)
Once the doors close, extraction begins. You're locked in place and cannot exit – you either survive or you don't.
Extraction Rules
- ✓Once doors close, you cannot exit
- ✗If you die before doors fully close, you lose your loot
- ✓Survive until extraction completes = successful escape
After this, your raid ends and loot is secured.
Can the Elevator Be Interrupted?
Yes. The extraction process can absolutely be interrupted. There is no invulnerability until extraction is fully complete.
Other Players Can:
- • Kill you before the doors close
- • Enter the elevator and fight you inside
- • Camp extraction zones
- • Third-party ongoing extractions
ARC Enemies Can:
- • Attack during the call-in phase
- • Sometimes enter elevator area
- • Shoot into the elevator
- • Spawn during extraction sequence
Key Survival Tips for Extraction
#1 Clear Before Calling
Clear nearby enemies BEFORE calling the elevator. You don't want to fight while waiting.
#2 Use Utility Items
Grenades, traps, and other utility items can give you a significant advantage during extraction. Set up defensive positions.
#3 Hold High Ground or Cover
Position yourself with good sightlines while waiting. Being exposed in the middle of the zone is a death sentence.
#4 Listen Carefully
Footsteps often signal late pushers. Use audio cues to anticipate attacks before they happen.
#5 Solo Players: Extract Early
If solo, consider extracting early rather than waiting until fully loaded.A smaller haul is better than losing everything.
Recommended Items for Extraction
These items can significantly improve your extraction success rate. Consider bringing at least one or two of these into every raid.
Risk vs Reward by Phase
Understanding the risk level at each phase helps you make better decisions about when to push and when to play defensively.
Downed State Mechanics & Survival Trick
ARC Behavior Toward Downed Players
When a player is downed (bleeding out and crawling), ARC enemies will no longer attack that player. This mechanic can be used strategically.
- Crawling players are often ignored by ARCs
- Provides temporary protection from ARC enemies
- Other players can still kill you
Do NOT Assume Safety
This only applies to ARC units, not PvP threats. Enemy players will absolutely finish you off when downed.
Crawling Over Edges – The Backward Trick
When downed, moving over ledges, small edges, or uneven terrain can be difficult. Here's a useful trick that can save your life.
The Backward Crawl Technique
Crawling backwards gives you better collision handling than crawling forward. This often allows you to climb over edges that are impossible when crawling forward.
- →Reach cover more easily
- →Hide from other players
- →Move into safer revive positions
This technique can significantly increase your survival chances while waiting for a revive.
Final Notes
- All extraction timers are subject to change during playtests and updates.
- Always assume another player is coming when you call extraction.
- Winning fights at the elevator is often more important than loot value.
Master the extraction zone and you'll find yourself escaping with loot far more consistently. Remember: it's not about how much you loot, it's about how much you extract.
Continue Learning
Now that you understand extraction mechanics, explore more guides to improve your raid success rate.
