If you are a fan of hardcore extraction shooters and the dynamics of Arc Raiders remind you of a mix between Destiny’s visuals and the uncompromising gameplay of Escape from Tarkov, get ready for a truly electrifying experience. The developers have released a new Trial that tests not only your courage but also your ability to take calculated risks. Forget about teamwork—this is a purely solo ride where your greatest enemy (and source of points) is the sky itself.
Chasing Lightning: The New Trial Mechanics
This specific Trial introduces a unique “lightning hunting” mechanic to the world of Arc Raiders. Unlike standard missions where you try to avoid damage, your goal here is to get hit by a discharge from the heavens. The entire scoring system is built on precision and estimating your distance from the epicenter of the strike.
- Solo Challenge: This Trial cannot be completed in a party (Co-op). You must venture out as an individual, which increases the tension and the risk of being ambushed by enemy mobs while point-farming.
- Proximity Scoring: The closer you are to the center of the lightning strike at the moment of impact, the higher your point gain. Peripheral hits hurt less but will only grant you minimum points.
- Point Range: A single successful strike can net you anywhere from a base of 270 points to a massive 1,850 points if you are standing directly in the “eye of the storm.”
How to Farm Points Effectively and Increase Strike Chances
If you want to reach the top of the leaderboards and maximize your point gain, you must literally become a walking lightning rod. The game utilizes an “attraction” mechanic in this Trial, which you can influence through your loadout. The more metallic and technological items you carry, the more often the “pain” from above will strike you.
Before entering the Trial, we recommend clearing out your stash and packing your backpack with as many items as possible. The keys to success are mainly:
- Weapons: The more you carry, the better.
- Augments: Technological enhancements increase your magnetic signature.
- Grenades and Consumables: Every extra piece of gear increases the chance that the lightning will choose you as its target.
Editorial Perspective
The new Trial in Arc Raiders feels like a fresh, albeit masochistic, breath of air. Forcing players in an extraction shooter to actively seek out damage in exchange for points is an interesting design move that perfectly complements the game’s already tense atmosphere. The risk here is enormous—you must balance the desire for a high score with the fact that every lightning strike weakens you before potential encounters with AI enemies. The strategy of filling your inventory with items from your stash gives “dusty loot” a new purpose, which we as players always appreciate.
FAQ
Q: Can I play this Trial with my friends in co-op?
A: No, this specific Trial is designed exclusively for solo players. Entering as a party is not possible, and you must rely solely on your own skills and equipment.
Q: How do I get the most points in the lightning Trial?
A: Positioning relative to the lightning is key. You only get the maximum number of points (up to 1,850) if the lightning hits you directly in the center of the impact zone. The further you are from the center, the fewer points you receive.
Q: What affects the frequency of how often lightning hits me?
A: The frequency of strikes is affected by the amount of gear you are carrying. If you want to “farm” lightning faster, take as many weapons, augments, and grenades from your stash into your inventory as possible.
Q: Is the lightning damage dangerous for my game progress?
A: Yes, a lightning strike deals damage corresponding to the points earned. You must constantly monitor your health so that you don’t accidentally get knocked out of the game while chasing a high score.
