“Back on Top” is one of the early–mid progression objectives in ARC Raiders, introducing players to the game’s signature mix of vertical mobility, teamwork, and tactical firefights against ARC mechanical threats. While not the most complex mission, it’s one that can easily overwhelm new or returning players if approached without preparation. This guide breaks down everything needed to complete “Back on Top,” including mission flow, recommended loadouts, enemy breakdowns, and strategies for efficiently navigating the map.

Mission Overview

“Back on Top” centers around regaining control of an elevated outpost that has been overrun by ARC units. The area functions as a forward vantage point and communication relay, which means reclaiming it is crucial for opening new routes and unlocking later objectives. The mission takes place across layered terrain: lowland approach paths, mid-elevation plateaus, and the top platform where the final encounter occurs.

The core goals remain consistent:

Reach the outpost and clear ARC patrols.

Overcome escalating enemy waves while advancing upward.

Reboot or stabilize the control module at the top.

Hold the platform until the reboot sequence finishes.

Understanding how to move efficiently between these layers is the key to success.

Recommended Loadouts and Role Choices

ARC Raiders emphasizes team synergy, even for players choosing to tackle missions in a low-man squad. Although every weapon and ARCR Items has its place, certain options excel in this mission due to their vertical layout and wave-based structure.

Primary Weapons

Assault Rifles – Ideal for consistent suppression and mid-range control.

DMRs or Semi-Auto Rifles – Great for picking off ARC Scouts and Drones before they group up.

Shotguns – Useful in the tight corridors near the top, but risky during the climb.

Secondary / Heavy Weapons

Grenade Launcher – Excellent for clearing clusters during the mid-level push.

Rocket Launcher – Helps handle Juggernaut-type mechs if they spawn.

EMP Grenades – Highly effective against ARC shields and mechanical units.

Support Items

Medkits – Essential for sustaining through the final stand.

Deployable Cover – Helpful on the top platform where exposure is high.

Harpoon or Grapple Tools – Great for repositioning quickly as enemies flank.

Teams benefit from a balanced setup: one player leaning into long-range control, one handling crowd control, and one focusing on utility and resupplies.

Step-by-Step Mission Strategy

1. Approaching From the Lowlands

The mission begins with a straightforward march toward the base of the outpost. ARC Scouts patrol the area in predictable loops. Clearing them before they alert heavier forces makes the rest of the mission significantly easier.

Tips for the approach:

Use elevation and rocks to avoid being detected early.

Tag enemy patrols to keep awareness of their positioning.

Eliminate ARC Drones quickly — they call reinforcements if ignored.

2. Securing the Mid-Level Pathways

After the first ridge, the terrain becomes more vertical. Expect narrow paths, staggered cliff edges, and enemy groups positioned to ambush players climbing upward.

Hazards include:

ARC Snipers positioned on balconies or platforms.

Roller-type units that rush players and explode on contact.

Shields and heavy mechs guarding bottlenecks.

Strategies:

Let long-range players clear high-ground threats before pushing forward.

Use grenades to break shield formations rather than trading fire.

Keep spacing between squad members to avoid area-damage chain hits.

This section is the most dangerous part of the mission for uncoordinated groups. Methodical pacing is better than rushing.

3. Reaching the Upper Platform

The last climb leads to a large, flat platform—the mission’s final arena. Once players step onto it or interact with the control module, enemy waves begin spawning from multiple edges. There is little natural cover, so preparation is crucial.

Before activating the objective:

Place deployable cover in central positions.

Set traps or mines near likely entry points.

Resupply ammunition and heal to full.

4. Holding the Platform During the Reboot Sequence

The hold phase lasts several minutes and includes staggered enemy spawns, with each wave introducing tougher ARC units.

Common threats:

Small drone swarms that overwhelm if not handled quickly.

Medium walkers with frontal cannons.

Heavy mechs are late in the sequence that require coordinated fire.

Best practices:

Assign one teammate to handle drones and light units.

Focus fire on heavies as soon as they appear — lingering mechs cause chaos.

Avoid fighting on the platform edges, as knockback can send players falling to lower levels.

Keep the control module area clear; some ARC units attempt to disrupt the reboot.

The mission completes automatically once the progress meter reaches 100%.

Additional Tips for Smooth Completion

Use elevation offensively. Higher ground gives major accuracy advantages over ARC units.

Avoid long firefights mid-climb. Prolonged battles drag additional patrols into the fight.

Watch for ARC reinforcements triggered by drones. Prioritize drones early.

Communicate rotations. Coordinated pushes between platforms keep squads from splitting up and getting overwhelmed.

Don’t hoard heavy ammo. The final wave benefits most from the early elimination of threats.

Final Thoughts

“Back on Top” isn’t just a combat challenge — it’s a test of navigation, team coordination, and resource management. With proper preparation, smart use of terrain, and deliberate pacing, the mission becomes a rewarding showcase of ARC Raiders’ signature gameplay style. Whether tackling it as a new player or returning after a break, the strategies above ensure a smoother, more controlled climb back to the top. The right ARC Raiders Items can be very helpful to you.