A Guide to Locating ARC Probes and Couriers in Arc Raiders

10/30/2025

In the expansive world of Arc Raiders, mastering the art of locating ARC Probes and Couriers is crucial for any player aiming to advance and gather precious resources. Early in the game, the quest dubbed 'A Bad Feeling' tasks players with this very objective, which, despite its apparent simplicity, often presents a challenge due to the elusive nature of these devices. Beyond quest progression, these contraptions serve as excellent sources of valuable loot, making their discovery a consistent priority for sustained gameplay.

Successfully completing the 'A Bad Feeling' quest swiftly is highly recommended, as it unlocks a suite of additional missions that can be tackled concurrently. Overcoming this initial hurdle streamlines your progression within the game. For those struggling to pinpoint these vital ARC components, understanding their characteristics and potential locations is key. ARC Probes are typically identified as missile-like structures, either embedded in the ground or lying on their side post-crash, while ARC Couriers are larger, more rectangular entities. Both types conspicuously emit a dense plume of black smoke, making them visible from a distance across the horizon. Furthermore, Probes emit a distinct beeping sound, signaling your proximity and guiding you closer to their position.

While the quest allows for the retrieval of either ARC Probes or Couriers, focusing on Couriers is generally advisable. Couriers tend to spawn in a handful of fixed locations, offering a more predictable search pattern. Probes, conversely, appear to have a more randomized spawn mechanism, sometimes even dropping from the sky mid-match. On the Dam Battlegrounds map, ARC Couriers have been observed in several key areas. These include the vicinity of the Electrical Substation's western perimeter, near the intersection leading from the Electrical Substation to Water Treatment, on the slope south of Research & Administration, within the South Swamp Outpost, in the hills southeast of Research & Administration (east of Small Creek), and along the road adjacent to West Broken Bridge, en route to the Hydroponic Dome Complex.

Similarly, ARC Probes have been encountered in various spots on the Dam Battlegrounds, though their appearance might vary. Notable locations include the central area of the Power Generation Complex, the heart of the Hydroponic Dome Complex, and potentially multiple Probes in the hills south of Research & Administration, east of Small Creek—particularly during electromagnetic storm events that can influence ARC machine activity. Another reported site is the South Swamp Outpost, close to the Field Depot. Completing the 'A Bad Feeling' quest rewards players with ten Metal Parts, five Steel Springs, and five rolls of Duct Tape. Even after fulfilling this initial mission, maintaining vigilance for ARC Probes and Couriers remains beneficial, as they consistently offer high-quality materials and gear, which are easily acquired upon discovery.

Ultimately, a keen eye for the tell-tale black smoke and an ear for the distinctive beeping sound of ARC Probes will significantly enhance your search efficiency. Coupled with knowledge of the more consistent Courier spawn points, players can effectively navigate the game world to gather essential resources and ensure steady advancement. The continuous pursuit of these objects transcends the early game, providing a reliable avenue for acquiring valuable items needed for crafting and upgrades throughout your Arc Raiders journey.