Arc Raiders' Flashpoint update finally streamlines crafting—oh, and you can also supercharge Scrappy using food because that just makes sense

While the Shrouded Sky update added the Controlled Access Zone, and the Firefly and Comet machines, Arc Raiders' new Flashpoint update might just be more exciting. It's only got four basic bullet points on the roadmap compared to Shrouded Sky's six, but don't let that fool you.

The Flashpoint update launches tomorrow, Tuesday, March 31, headlined by the new (and terrifying) Vaporizer machine. The name alone gives you an idea of what it's all about, but this large, aerial Arc comes equipped with a laser beam to chase you down, and often appears in groups. I can already tell they're going to be the bane of my existence.

Speaking of, Shredders have broken the confines of Stella Montis and can now appear on Blue Gate, Buried City and Spaceport, and under specific conditions in Dam Battlegrounds. As if I needed another reason to dislike Shredders.

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Coinciding with the new Arc threats, this update also adds the Close Scrutiny Arc Operation map condition. This mouthful of an event introduces "high-risk engagements and high-value targets" that take place around the Arc Assessor. This is a heavily guarded platform hauling rare items, including those required for the new High-Gain Antenna player project. From the sounds of it, we'll have to defend ourselves from waves of Arcs or take out elite enemies while trying to crack open the Assessor, but that's just my two cents.

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Naturally, bigger Arcs require better firepower, so in comes two new weapons: the Dolabra energy shotgun and the Canto sub-machine gun. The Dolabra, whose blueprint is best found in the Close Scrutiny Arc Operation, can shoot in a wide burst or a focused blast of electricity, and works a treat against Arc armour. On the other hand, the Canto uses medium ammo and is unsurprisingly designed for close to medium range.

I have no doubt that this shotgun and an SMG will cause some tears to flow in no time. The all-powerful Il Toro did just get knocked down a peg, after all, so perhaps the Dolabra will be the new terror in Stella Montis.

New Arc and guns are cool and all, but Flashpoint's smaller changes are just as great. What finer example is there than Scrappy's 'feeding boost' mechanic? You will be able to feed your pet rooster specific items to influence what he brings back for you, letting you target resources you actually need.

And, like music to all our ears, the crafting system is also being streamlined somewhat. You'll finally be able to fulfil missing items when crafting directly through the menu via suggested actions like recycling, refining, or purchasing. No more menu hopping!

Flashpoint also brings a handful of new quests, further quality-of-life updates, and new store bundles, as we've come to expect by now. This includes the Wasp Hunter cosmetic set, which might just be my favourite yet.

Arc Raiders roadmap: New and improved
Arc Raiders best skills: Survive the surface
Arc Raiders best weapons: Just don't lose them
Arc Raiders Expeditions: Retire your Raider
Arc Raiders quests: All the missions and how to beat 'em
Arc Raiders Weather Monitor Project: Beat the wind
Arc Raiders Trophy Display Project: Big game hunter