ARC Raiders Update 1.20.0 Nerfs IL Toro Shotgun and Introduces New Fixes

Developer Embark Studios has rolled out a new update for ARC Raiders, bringing the game to version 1.20.0 on March 17. The patch is now available across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, and players can download it immediately.

While the update includes a variety of bug fixes and minor gameplay improvements, its most significant change is a major balance nerf to the IL Toro shotgun, a weapon that has dominated PvP encounters for several weeks.

IL Toro Shotgun Receives Major Nerf

The centerpiece of the 1.20.0 patch is the balancing pass on the IL Toro shotgun, which had become one of the strongest weapons in the game due to its high damage output and effectiveness even at mid-range, particularly when paired with a choke attachment.

According to Embark Studios, the weapon was adjusted to reduce its DPS and overall versatility, especially at lower upgrade levels.

IL Toro Balance Changes

• Pellet Damage: 7.5 → 7
• Base Fire Rate: 43 → 38
• Base Dispersion: 4.5 → 6
• Total Reload Time: 4.3s → 5.7s
• Looping Reload Entry: 0.8s → 1s
• Looping Reload Time: 0.5s → 0.7s
• Damage Falloff: increased from 40% → 50%

Developers explained that these changes should make the weapon more dependent on positioning, upgrades, and attachments, rather than dominating encounters at all ranges.

Embark also confirmed it will continue monitoring IL Toro performance and may introduce further adjustments in future patches.

Bug Fixes and Gameplay Improvements

The update also includes several technical fixes and quality-of-life improvements.

One notable fix resolves an issue with persistent audio effects connected to destroyed Comets and Fireballs, a new ARC enemy introduced in recent updates. Players had reported hearing lingering sound effects even after the enemies were destroyed.

Additional fixes addressed environmental collision issues that could trap players or allow unintended movement.

Bug Fix Highlights

• Fixed persistent audio after destroying Comets and Fireballs
• Fixed an issue where players could be pushed through a wall in the Dam Controlled Access Zone
• Fixed missing collision near the Spaceport east elevator and pipe structures

These improvements are designed to increase overall stability and consistency during raids.

Energy Clip Economy Adjustment

Another notable change affects the in-game crafting economy.

The sell price of Energy Clips has been significantly reduced after developers discovered that players were exploiting the item’s value to generate excessive profits.

Economy Change

• Energy Clip sell price: 1,000 Coins → 200 Coins

Embark explained that the previous value unintentionally turned Energy Clips into one of the most profitable crafting items in the game, creating balance issues in the in-game economy.

New Cosmetics Added to the Store

The update also introduces a few new cosmetic options available through the in-game store.

Players can now purchase:

• Rawhide Outfit – 1,100 Raider Tokens
• Two new hairstyle options

Unlike some previous cosmetics, the Rawhide outfit does not include additional items such as backpacks or emotes.

Cosmetic design has been a somewhat divisive topic among players since the game’s release. While Embark has stated it wants to avoid overly exaggerated or “goofy” cosmetics like those seen in some other shooters, community reactions to recent skins have been mixed.

For example, last week’s Devotee outfit drew criticism from some players who questioned its visual design.

Flashpoint Update Still on the Way

Although this patch focuses mainly on balancing and fixes, players are eagerly waiting for the next major content update for ARC Raiders.

Earlier this year, Embark revealed a 2026 roadmap for the game that includes four large updates scheduled between January and April.

The first two updates — Headwinds and Shrouded Sky — introduced several major features:

• New map conditions
• Additional ARC enemy types
• New cosmetic items
• A controversial matchmaking option

The upcoming Flashpoint update, expected later this month, is set to introduce:

• A new map
• A large ARC enemy, similar to the Queen and Matriarch
• A new Player Project system
• Additional gameplay systems and map conditions

If Embark maintains its current update schedule, Flashpoint could arrive on March 24 or March 31.

ARC Raiders Update 1.20.0 Patch Notes (March 17)

New Content

• Rawhide Outfit added to the store
• Two new haircuts added

IL Toro Balance Changes

• Pellet Damage reduced from 7.5 → 7
• Base Fire Rate reduced from 43 → 38
• Base Dispersion increased from 4.5 → 6
• Total Reload Time increased from 4.3s → 5.7s
• Looping Reload Entry increased from 0.8s → 1s
• Looping Reload Time increased from 0.5s → 0.7s
• Damage falloff increased from 40% → 50%

Bug Fixes

• Fixed persistent audio from destroyed Comets and Fireballs
• Fixed players being pushed through walls in the Dam Controlled Access Zone
• Fixed missing collision near the Spaceport elevator and pipes

Economy Changes

• Energy Clip sell price reduced from 1000 → 200 Coins

What’s Next for ARC Raiders

While Update 1.20.0 focuses primarily on weapon balance and bug fixes, it serves as a stepping stone toward the upcoming Flashpoint expansion.

With a new map, new enemies, and additional gameplay systems expected to arrive soon, ARC Raiders players should have plenty of new content to explore in the coming weeks.

Also check out the previous update 1.19.0!