Summary:


ARC Raiders Update 1.39.0 has arrived with important matchmaking improvements, gameplay fixes, new cosmetics, and trial challenges. The biggest change is the adjustment to PvP behavior tracking:defensive fights will no longer increase your aggression rating, allowing players to defend themselves without being punished by matchmaking. This guide covers all major changes, new trial tips, loot updates, ARC Raiders Items, and what players should focus on this week.


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1. Defensive PvP No Longer Affects Aggression Rating


The biggest highlight of Update 1.39 is the new matchmaking test focused on defensive PvP.


Previously, defending yourself after being attacked would still slightly increase your playstyle aggression estimate. Now, only fights that you actively start will affect your aggression rating.


The system now works like this:

If another squad damages, downs, or eliminates your teammate first, your squad is considered defensive.

The squad that attacks first is considered the initiator.

Long and intense battles with heavy damage and multiple downs have a stronger impact.

Accidental hits or short fights where enemies escape have less influence.

Joining an ongoing battle between two squads still counts as starting a fight.


This change gives passive and survival-focused players more freedom. However, be careful of players trying to bait you into shooting first to manipulate the system.


2. Matchmaking Improvements Continue


Update 1.39.0 continues improving the matchmaking system introduced in previous updates.


The following adjustments remain active:

Solo, Duo, and Trio matchmaking tracking from Update 1.36.0.

Matchmaking optimization improvements from Update 1.38.0.


The developers are monitoring player feedback and match data to improve future matchmaking balance. Players can also submit feedback through the official matchmaking survey, but survey responses will not affect matchmaking ratings.


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3. Gameplay Fixes and Loot Improvements


Several quality-of-life changes were included in this update.


Important fixes include:

Secret and Wolf Pack weapons should now deal consistent damage.

Converging Paths trinkets can now stack.

Trinket drops have been adjusted for more consistent loot distribution.

Improved underwater footstep audio.

Added more unique dodge roll sounds.

Fixed cosmetic and map-related issues.

Fixed the problem where train models could appear in two locations inside Raider Den.


The new stacking system makes inventory management easier, especially for players collecting event items and valuable resources, ARC Raiders Materials for sale.


4. Weekly Trials Guide


Update 1.39.0 also brings new weekly trials with several useful strategies.


Blue Gate:Open Containers in Traffic Tunnels


For this challenge, Traffic Tunnels is the recommended location. Locked areas usually provide better scores, but regular containers can still complete the objective.

Damage ARC Enemies with One Blaze Grenade

This trial only counts damage from a single Blaze Grenade.


The easiest strategy:

Find a Leaper or Bombardier.

Throw one Blaze Grenade.

Maximize damage from that single explosion.


Using multiple grenades will not increase your score, so focus on one powerful hit.


Receive Damage from Pops


The exact scoring method still needs testing, but players should experiment with:

Lower shield protection.

Positioning near Pops.

Allowing multiple hits safely.


The goal is to discover whether the trial rewards total damage received or the number of hits taken.


Damage Wasps with Light Ammo

Weapons with high accuracy are ideal. The Cattle Prod or Hairpin can perform well because they allow consistent long-range hits.


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5. New Dweller Outfit and Store Content


A new cosmetic set, the Dweller Outfit, has been added to the store.


The set includes:

Multiple color variations.

Radio Mountaineer backpack compatibility.

Face style options.

Gloves, goggles, gas mask, hoodie, and harness customization.

Special glowing effects.


Players who already own the included backpack may receive a reduced price.

The outfit focuses more on exploration and survival themes, fitting the underground Raider style.


6. Final Thoughts


ARC Raiders Update 1.39.0 is not a major content expansion, but it delivers meaningful improvements to PvP balance, matchmaking, loot management, and player experience.


The defensive PvP change is the most important update because it allows players to fight back without increasing aggression ratings. This should create fairer matches and reduce situations where peaceful players are punished for defending themselves.


Until the next major content update arrives, players should focus on completing weekly trials, collecting valuable resources, and testing the new matchmaking system.