TL;DR
- Arc Probes resemble missiles while Couriers appear as saucer-shaped drones
- Look for black smoke columns as primary visual indicators from distance
- Probes cluster around key facilities like Water Treatment and Research buildings
- Couriers frequently spawn near Victory Ridge with predictable patterns
- Strategic looting unlocks additional quests and valuable crafting materials
As you dive deeper into ARC Raiders, mastering resource collection becomes crucial for progression. Early in your journey, Celeste assigns the pivotal ‘A Bad Feeling’ mission that introduces you to the game’s scavenging mechanics. This quest requires locating and examining Arc Probes and Couriers, which serve as primary sources for loot acquisition from Arc enemy forces. Successfully completing this objective not only advances your current mission but unlocks subsequent questlines essential for character development.
Proper identification is fundamental to efficient scavenging. Arc Probes maintain a distinctive missile-like appearance, typically embedded in terrain or resting on surfaces awaiting discovery. Their internal components yield valuable resources when properly extracted. Meanwhile, Arc Couriers feature unconventional saucer designs reminiscent of extraterrestrial technology, offering different loot tables and strategic value.
Seasoned players quickly learn that visual cues dramatically improve discovery rates. The most reliable indicator for both Probe and Courier locations remains the distinctive black smoke plumes emanating from their mechanical frames. These markers become visible from considerable distances, allowing for strategic planning before engagement. Understanding these fundamentals transforms random exploration into targeted resource acquisition.


Celeste’s directive to investigate Arc Probes and Couriers serves dual purposes: introducing players to advanced looting mechanics while simultaneously unlocking additional narrative threads. The following locations represent confirmed Arc Probe spawn points based on extensive field testing:
- Western forest perimeter adjacent to Water Treatment Control facility – this area typically contains 1-2 probes with moderate enemy presence
- Southern sector of Research & Administration complex – we consistently discovered multiple probes clustered here, sometimes spawning in pairs
- Immediate exterior of Power Generation Complex – probes here often appear partially concealed by industrial debris
- Central courtyard within Hydroponic Dome Complex, particularly near Field Depot operations – high probability spawn zone
Advanced players should note that Probe spawns follow semi-predictable patterns based on in-game time cycles and player activity levels. Areas with recent combat engagement often feature refreshed Probe locations, making previously cleared zones worth revisiting after major encounters. The strategic value of these locations extends beyond immediate loot, as consistent Probe investigation contributes to faction reputation and unlockable blueprints.

Arc Couriers present different discovery challenges compared to their Probe counterparts. These mobile units follow less predictable patterns but concentrate around specific high-traffic areas:
- Primary spawn zone near Victory Ridge initial deployment point – this remains the most consistent Courier location
- Secondary locations include transport routes between major facilities – patrol these corridors for occasional encounters
- Emergency landing sites following aerial engagements – check crash locations for damaged Couriers
Expert scavengers develop specific Courier-hunting techniques that significantly improve discovery rates. Since Couriers generate the same black smoke signature as Probes, elevation becomes your greatest asset. Position yourself on high ground and systematically scan horizons for telltale columns. Couriers often appear in areas with recent aerial Arc activity, making post-combat zones prime investigation targets. Their loot tables typically include advanced components and rare crafting materials unavailable through Probe extraction.

Maximizing efficiency in Probe and Courier recovery requires understanding spawn mechanics and developing systematic search patterns. New players frequently waste valuable time by randomly exploring rather than implementing structured approaches. The most effective strategy involves dividing the map into quadrants and methodically clearing each section while maintaining high ground visibility.
Route Optimization: Plan circuits that connect multiple known spawn locations. Start at Victory Ridge for Courier investigation, then proceed to Water Treatment Control, followed by Research Complex, Power Generation, and finally Hydroponic Dome. This path minimizes backtracking while maximizing encounter probability.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Don’t ignore elevation – black smoke visibility dramatically improves from higher vantage points
- Avoid engaging unnecessary enemies while searching – focus on primary objective completion
- Never extract immediately after finding one target – complete your planned route for maximum efficiency
- Don’t overlook partially concealed probes – check behind structures and within foliage
Loot Prioritization: Couriers generally provide superior rewards compared to Probes, making them higher priority targets when time constrained. However, Probes offer more consistent spawns, making them reliable fallback options when Courier hunting proves unsuccessful. Advanced players should track spawn timers and revisit high-yield locations after major map events or time cycle advancements.
Time investment varies significantly based on player experience and route efficiency. Novice players typically require 15-20 minutes to locate all targets, while experienced scavengers can complete circuits in under 10 minutes with proper planning. For comprehensive gameplay strategies beyond scavenging, consult our Complete Guide to master all aspects of tactical combat and resource management.
Action Checklist
- Identify visual characteristics: missile-shaped Probes vs saucer-like Couriers
- Scan horizons for black smoke columns from elevated positions
- Systematically check confirmed Probe locations starting with Water Treatment Control
- Investigate Victory Ridge area for primary Courier spawns
- Complete optimized circuit connecting all major spawn zones
No reproduction without permission:Tsp Game Club » How to Find Arc Probes and Couriers in ARC Raiders Complete guide to locating Arc Probes and Couriers in ARC Raiders with advanced search strategies and loot optimization
