ARC Raiders Free Loadout Explained

ARC Raiders is a 2025 third-person extraction shooter developed and published by Embark Studios. Available on Windows PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, the game puts players in the role of Raiders who leave their underground shelters to venture topside in search of valuable resources.

Before heading to the surface, players must choose between two loadout options: Custom Loadout or Free Loadout. For new players, this decision can be confusing, especially when you're still learning the game's mechanics and don't want to risk losing gear.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Free Loadout, including how to get one, the limitations you'll face, and the pros and cons of using free equipment versus custom gear.

Also Read: How Many Blueprints Are in ARC Raiders?

What is Free Loadout?

Free Loadout is an option that lets you start a raid with a basic, randomized kit instead of using your own stored gear. The system provides you with equipment at no cost, which means you don't risk losing any of your personal inventory if you die during the raid.

When you select Free Loadout, the game assigns you random weapons, armor, and basic supplies. If you successfully extract from the raid, you keep everything you brought in plus any loot you collected during the run. If you die or fail to extract, you lose the free gear, but since you didn't invest anything to begin with, there's no real loss to your account.

This eliminates the risk for players who are afraid of losing their hard-earned equipment. New players can learn the game's mechanics without worrying about depleting their inventory. Experienced players can use Free Loadout when testing new strategies or exploring dangerous areas where death is likely.

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What Do You Get in Free Loadout?

We ran tests across more than 30 raids to understand exactly what equipment Free Loadout provides. The results show that the game uses standardized loadouts rather than completely random gear distribution. There are eight distinct loadouts in total, with two variations for each of the four available weapons.

The loadout value ranges from 4,000 Coins at the minimum to 5,930 Coins at the maximum. Higher-value loadouts typically include better utility items like Ziplines, Defibrillators, or Barricade Kits, while lower-value loadouts come with basic grenades and consumables.

Here's the complete breakdown of all eight Free Loadouts:

Every loadout includes the same core survival items: a Light Shield, Free Loadout Augment, two Bandages, and one Shield Recharger. The main differences come from the weapon type, ammunition count, and the two utility slots that change between loadout variations.

Also Read: Is ARC Raiders Cross-Platform? (Answered)

Pros and Cons of Free Loadout

Free Loadout helps when you're low on resources or don't want to risk your personal gear. However, this safety comes with significant disadvantages that can cost you valuable finds.

Cons

• No safe pocket. Custom Loadout includes a secure container that holds up to three items, which you keep even if you die or fail to extract. Free Loadout removes this protection entirely. Any rare or valuable item you find during the raid is lost if you don't make it out.

• Level 1 weapons only. Free Loadouts provide base-level weapons that perform poorly against both ARCs and other players. You'll struggle in direct combat situations, especially against Raiders using upgraded gear.

Pros

• Lets you join raids when your inventory is depleted or when you're short on resources. You can participate in raids without using any gear from your stash.

• Perfect for learning the game. New players can explore map layouts, extraction points, and enemy spawn locations without worrying about losing valuable gear.

• Pure profit on successful extracts. Since you invested nothing, any loot you bring back is completely free. A single raid where you find rare materials or expensive equipment can justify multiple Free Loadout runs, even if some end in failure.

Also Read: ARC Raiders Workshop Upgrades: Complete Guide

How to Get a Free Loadout

Getting into a raid with a Free Loadout is straightforward. The process takes just a few clicks from the main menu. Here's how to do it:

1. Launch ARC Raiders.

2. Click "Play."

3. Select your desired map and click "Confirm."

4. In the navigation bar at the top of the screen, choose "Free Loadout."

5. Click "Ready Up."

The game will assign you one of the eight loadouts randomly once you enter the raid. You won't know which weapon or utility items you're getting until you spawn topside. This randomization means you should be prepared to adapt your playstyle based on whatever equipment the system provides.

Final Words

Free Loadout provides a risk-free way to experience ARC Raiders without depleting your inventory. The system works well for learning maps, testing strategies, or playing when resources are low. The lack of a safe pocket and Level 1 weapons creates clear disadvantages, but the zero-risk approach makes it valuable for both new and experienced players. Use Free Loadout strategically to preserve your best gear for high-stakes raids while still earning loot and gaining experience.

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