u/Netrunner008 — reddlx

My buddy and I got to talking. I haven't done a single expedition since launch. I love my gear, LOVE hunting big arc with my hullcrackers and wolf packs

But he reminded me how crazy the first couple months of this game were. Figuring out what matts were used for what recipes, freaking out over finding a blueprint or a rare gun. Call me crazy, but I even sort of liked how the arc were threats you had to work around, rather than just fight and move on. Plus, maybe this time I'll actually be able to keep my stash organized lmao. Can't lie, I'm weirdly excited for someone about to lose everything. I totally get why people don't like to do these. But if the game is starting to feel a bit repetative, I'd humbly suggest giving this a try. You’ll be in good company!

Summary: It's not what people are making it out to be. There are small issues. But all and all its a very good update that the devs clearly put work into, they do not deserve the sheer amount of hate they have been getting.

Detailed Summary:

- The weapon burn rate is noticeable. But it is not near as bad as people say. I used various combinations of the Ferro, Apeggio, Venator, Hullcraker and Burletta last night for over 5 hours. I used each weapon for multiple consecutive raids. Rather than repairing every 5-7 raids (depending on use) Its now every 3 to 4 raids. Before you fly to the comments, yes, I know everyone's play style is different. And yes, your level of aggression will play a role in how often repairs are needed. But those of you not addicted to misery can rest assured, the burn rate is manageable. You're not going to break a fully repaired gun mid raid unless you're intentionally trying too.

- The new map is great, full stop. I can only assume the people complaining about size and loot concentration didn't take the time to explore the verticality. Each marked location has tons of "hidden" crates, bags and breachables you have to climb or take lifts to get to. The map design encourages either bringing the new gadgets or zip lines and snap hooks for better FOM. And they make it worth your while; I left every match with a STUFFED MK2 looting augment (including the trinket slots) and constantly found my-self having to drop loot or organize my storage because I was finding so much. Oh, and aesthetic wise, the map is gorgeous.

- Speaking of the new gadgets, being the Crash mat and Powered Descender. If NOTHING else these are something to be excited about. They are very intuitive and fun to use. I personally cannot wait for the clips. Legends are going to be made on some of the other maps I just know it.

- The Beach Combing is probably the least exciting thing about this update. I found 2 rare ships and a mag accelerator, otherwise nothing but junk. I am typically in friendly lobbies and even I felt exposed/unsafe while searching. It might be fun for those of you who like to mess around or do slice of life stuff with fellow raiders. But for the general audience, it's entirely skippable/not worth your time. They will need to adjust the RNG if they want people to engage with it on mass.

- The new Arc Turbines are QUITE the spectacle and not at all what I was expecting. They put up a decent fight but are not as dangerous as a Rocketeer for example. Personally, I love watching them enter the map and think they work great as obstacles/interactive set pieces. Make no mistake, I am happy they are in the game. But as far as blood pumping action is concerned, they leave you wanting. Its fair to say they were a little over-hyped for the how much they actually impact game play. That combined with the tremor animations in Speranza has me speculating that there is another arc threat coming sooner than we expect and the turbines are serving as a red herring.

- In closing. This update offers a lot for us players. And it saddens me to see obvious hard work and positive changes being overshadowed by bandwagon negativity and flaring tempers. If you have not played the update yet it is absolutely worth your time. Was it slam dunk win? No. Is it the end of the game? Not even close.

Edit. I won't deny, the photocloak nerf is rough and pretty nonsensical. That is probably the one thing from this update that I can't rationalize or defend to any extent. Still think the Devs deserve props for everything else though.