How to Solo the Matriarch in ARC Raiders and Get 13+ Cores Every Match

Summary

The Matriarch can be one of the most rewarding targets in ARC Raiders, but fighting it in a solo-vs-squads lobby is risky. With the right setup and a careful approach, however, you can take it down alone and potentially extract with 12+ Matriarch Cores. The key is using the Snap Hook correctly, staying away from the first ARC wave, and saving enough damage for a clean finish. Having the right ARC Raiders Items can also help you prepare for this high-risk encounter.

1. The Best Loadout for a Solo Matriarch Run

Before attempting this strategy, your loadout matters. The Snap Hook is essential because it allows you to reach the Matriarch and get into a safe position. A Photo Cloak is also highly recommended for avoiding unwanted attention from ARC enemies and nearby players.

For your weapon, the Equalizer is the best option. Other weapons such as the Jupiter or Delilah can work, but their performance is less consistent. You should also bring enough Energy Ammo, with around 25 rounds recommended for a full solo kill.

Deadlines are another useful addition. Bringing two of them can significantly speed up the final stage of the fight once the Matriarch's health is low.

2. How to Reach the Matriarch Safely

There are two situations you need to understand. The first is arriving before anyone has aggroed the Matriarch. This is the ideal scenario because you can immediately position yourself behind it.

The second situation is when another player has already started the fight. Don't rush in immediately. The Matriarch will usually summon a first wave of ARC enemies, often including a Leaper, along with other dangerous units.

Wait until this wave moves away or loses aggro. Then quietly approach the Matriarch from behind. Keep checking the surrounding area because other players may still be nearby.

The most important mechanic is the Snap Hook. You need to be within approximately 20 meters and must target the Matriarch from behind. Trying to hook from the front or side can fail, so positioning is extremely important.

3. Getting on Top of the Matriarch

Once you're within range, use the Snap Hook and hold jump while you're airborne to gain additional height. Aim for the front section of the Matriarch after landing.

Sometimes the Matriarch will shake or move unexpectedly. If this happens, repeatedly jump to maintain your position. Once you're safely inside the correct area, you can begin dealing consistent damage without exposing yourself to as much danger.

This is what makes the strategy so effective: instead of fighting the Matriarch in the open while dealing with ARC enemies and other players, you turn the encounter into a controlled damage phase.

4. How to Kill the Matriarch Efficiently

Don't waste your strongest resources too early. Start by using your Equalizer and track your remaining ammunition carefully. The Matriarch has a large health pool, so knowing roughly how much damage you need is important.

When its health becomes low, use your Deadlines to finish the final portion quickly. This reduces the amount of time you spend exposed after the Matriarch begins showing signs of being close to death.

The original run demonstrates just how effective this approach can be. After the kill, the player collected 13 Matriarch Cores, with the total loot value reaching roughly 336,000.

5. Extracting With 13 Cores

Killing the Matriarch is only half the challenge. Extraction is where a successful run can quickly turn into a disaster.

After collecting the cores, you will likely be heavily overweight, making movement slower. Avoid unnecessary fights and don't stay in the area longer than necessary. Nearby players may hear the fighting or notice the valuable loot and attempt to ambush you at the extract.

If you hear gunfire, looting sounds, or approaching enemies, prioritize survival over additional loot. You already have the main reward.

Final Thoughts

Soloing the Matriarch in ARC Raiders doesn't require overwhelming firepower. The real advantage comes from positioning, timing, stealth, and resource management. With a Snap Hook, Photo Cloak, Equalizer, enough Energy Ammo, and a couple of Deadlines, you can potentially turn a dangerous Matriarch encounter into one of the most profitable solo runs in the game. If you need to prepare your loadout efficiently, you can also buy ARC Raiders Items to support your next Matriarch run.