Embark Studios released a major update for ARC Raiders today, March 17, 2026. Patch 1.20.0 is now live across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Consequently, players must adapt to significant gameplay shifts. The developer specifically targeted the dominant IL Toro shotgun to balance PvP encounters. Furthermore, the patch introduces vital economy changes, bug fixes, and fresh cosmetic items.
Reign of “IL Toro” Finally Ends
For weeks, the IL Toro shotgun dominated player-versus-player combat. Therefore, Embark Studios heavily nerfed this popular weapon. The developers specifically tuned the shotgun to address its high DPS and extreme range effectiveness. Previously, players gained an overpowered advantage when using a choke attachment. Now, the weapon performs more closely to its designated rarity level. As a result, players must rely on superior positioning, cover, and timing to win gunfights.
Here are the specific statistical changes applied to the IL Toro:
| Weapon Statistic | Previous Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|
| Pellet Damage | 7.5 | 7 |
| Base Fire-Rate | 43 | 38 |
| Base Dispersion | 4.5 | 6 |
| Total Reload Time | 4.3 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Looping Reload Entry | 0.8 seconds | 1 second |
| Looping Reload Time | 0.5 seconds | 0.7 seconds |
| Damage Loss from Falloff | 40% | 50% |
Economy Tweaks & World Fixes
Beyond weapon balancing, Embark Studios tackled in-game economy exploits. Previously, players abused Energy Clips crafting to generate massive, unintentional profits. Consequently, the developer slashed the sell price of Energy Clips from 1,000 Coins down to just 200 Coins.
Additionally, the update squashes several annoying world bugs. For instance, developers fixed persistent audio loops caused by destroyed Comets and Fireballs. Moreover, they resolved frustrating collision issues. Players will no longer get pushed through walls at the Dam Controlled Access Zone. Similarly, the team fixed missing collision spots near the Spaceport’s east elevator and under its pipes.
Controversial Cosmetics & ARC Raiders 2026 Roadmap
Update 1.20.0 also brings new customization options to the in-game store. Players can now purchase two new haircuts alongside the “Rawhide Outfit”. Specifically, the Rawhide skin costs 1,100 Raider Tokens. However, this purchase does not include extra items like backpacks or emotes. Meanwhile, ARC Raiders’ cosmetic designs remain a highly divisive community topic. Players recently criticized the “weird” Devotee outfit, despite Embark’s initial promise to avoid goofy designs commonly seen in games like Fortnite.
Looking ahead, fans eagerly await the upcoming “Flashpoint” update. Since Embark consistently patches the game on Tuesdays, Flashpoint will likely arrive on March 24 or March 31. This specific update will introduce a new ARC threat, an additional map condition, and a new player project. Finally, a massive content drop will launch in April. This major release will feature a brand-new map and a massive ARC enemy similar to the Matriarch and Queen.
