Raiders, it is time to return to Speranza. As of today, May 19, 2026, the latest patch for ARC Raiders—version 1.29.0—is officially live.
While the team at Embark Studios recently announced a pivot toward a semi-annual update schedule to focus on more substantial content, they are continuing to support the community with meaningful adjustments in the interim.
This latest patch brings fresh utility to the Rust Belt, including a mysterious new merchant and a creative new way to neutralize ARC threats.
ARC Raiders Patch 1.29.0 at a Glance
Whether you are a veteran scavenger or just starting your journey, here is a breakdown of the most critical changes you need to know:
| Feature | Update Summary |
| New Hardware | The “Rascal,” a compact, anti-ARC grenade launcher. |
| New Trader | Meet Ermal, the Nomadic Envoy, now in Speranza. |
| Integrity | Introduction of Denuvo Anti-Cheat protocols. |
| Barter System | New trade options for high-value scrap and materials. |
Enter the Nomadic Envoy: Ermal
The rumors have finally been confirmed—the Nomadic Envoys have arrived in Speranza. If you have progressed to Level 25, you can now track down Ermal, who has set up camp in the hub.
Ermal is a major relief for those of us struggling with limited inventory space. He allows you to exchange your hard-earned ARC materials and rare salvage for:
Stash Expansions
Gain additional room to keep your hoard organized (resets post-expedition).
Expedition Vault Access
Secure up to 5 items of your choosing so they remain safely waiting for you after you return from the surface.
Ermal also cycles through a weekly selection of blueprints, cosmetics, and upgrade components. Be sure to check his stock often—if you walk away from a deal, there is no guarantee it will return soon.
Weapon Spotlight: “The Rascal”
Tian Wen has been hard at work in the workshop, and the result is the new Rascal Grenade Launcher. This tool is tailored for Raiders who need heavy-duty stopping power without carrying the weight of the larger Hullcracker.
Advantage Of “The Rascal” Weapon in ARC Raiders
It is lightweight and perfect for dealing with armored ARC units during tight encounters.
Disadvantage Of “The Rascal” Weapon in ARC Raiders
It has a bit of a “temperament.” The reload animation is lengthy, and the trajectory can be unpredictable under pressure. While it shouldn’t replace your primary rifle, it makes for a fantastic, high-damage secondary.
ARC Raiders Version 1.29.0 Update
Aside from new content, the developers are doubling down on maintaining a level playing field and overall game health.
Denuvo Anti-Cheat
This update rolls out Denuvo Anti-Cheat protocols to ensure the integrity of the Rust Belt.
Quality of Life
Various weapon tweaks and balance passes have been implemented to ensure gameplay remains challenging but fair.
FAQ
Do I need a specific level to interact with the new trader?
Yes, you must reach Level 25 before you can begin bartering with Ermal.
Is the Expedition Vault a permanent storage solution?
You can store 5 items for safe retrieval after an expedition. It is specifically designed to help you prepare your next character with your best gear.
Did the update schedule change?
Embark has transitioned to a semi-annual cadence for massive content drops—such as the upcoming “Frozen Trail” map arriving in October—to ensure higher quality. However, they remain committed to regular bug fixes, balance patches, and community events throughout the year.