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Once you go topside in Arc Raiders, there’s a lot to do. Whether you’re collecting resources for crafting, gathering materials to upgrade your workshop, or hunting down more Arc units for scrap, you’ll need to be prepared for tougher enemies like the Rocketeer. In the early stages, the Rocketeer can be your toughest opponent.
We’ll guide you on how to defeat this large machine and complete related quests. Take your time and be patient, as going topside always carries risks. Our goal is to help you minimize those risks and come out on top.
Where to Find a Rocketeer
To start the Out of the Shadows quest, you need to locate a Rocketeer and bring back its Drive. But first, you have to find one. Rocketeers appear in open outdoor maps, and you can identify them by their large hovering form.
If you already have a Rocketeer Drive, Shani still wants you to defeat a Rocketeer — no exceptions.
Some reliable locations to find Rocketeers include the Dam Battlegrounds. To the southeast, near the Testing Annex and Red Lake Elevator, you’ll often spot one patrolling. You can also find one east of the Ruby Residences, near the northernmost elevator. It’s best to attack the Rocketeer when you’re close enough to call the nearby elevator, allowing quick escape if needed.
Tip: Call the elevator before you start fighting or if things get too intense. This way, you’ll have an easy way to retreat.
How to Defeat a Rocketeer
Rocketeers fly through the air and scan the ground with sensors to find threats, similar to Wasps and Hornets. Their main weakness lies in their thrusters, which keep them airborne. Target these thrusters to force the Rocketeer to crash.
However, they are heavily armored. Removing this armor will take a few shots, so don’t attempt it without Heavy Ammo. Consider buying the Hullcracker from Tian Wen, and bring plenty of shells to use with it. Remember to find cover because the Rocketeer will attack with rockets, and their area damage can be devastating. In fact, with a light shield, a couple of hits can be enough to take you out. Always carry ample healing supplies and shield rechargers.
Note: Using drives from Wasps can help replenish some of your shield.
Hiding in the Ruby Residences is the safest bet, especially inside the small structure near the northern elevator. The Testing Annex offers even more cover options, including the building itself to block blasts.
Patience is key. Wait for the right moment. When the Rocketeer prepares to fire its red laser beams, move out of the way. Attack only once the danger passes. Given the strength of the enemy, it will take a lot of firepower, so stay persistent.
After destroying the Rocketeer, search its wreckage for parts. There are multiple pieces to examine, but your main objective is to find the Rocketeer Drive. If you don’t locate one, you can also take down other Raiders or enemies to search their corpses for a Drive. Be cautious, especially if they managed to take down a Rocketeer; it might be safer to keep your distance.
How to Complete the Out of the Shadows Quest
Once you’ve defeated a Rocketeer and recovered its Drive, go back to Shani for your reward. She’ll give you three Surge Shield Rechargers and two Wolfpack Grenades—valuable tools when facing enemies like the Rocketeer.
Completing this quest suggests that humanity might have a chance to push back against Arc. With that victory, the next quest, Back on Top, becomes available.
Note: If the next quest doesn’t appear, you likely need to finish other prerequisites first.




