How to Beat the Vaporizer in Arc Raiders

Complete strategy guide for defeating the Vaporizer, the new airborne ARC enemy in the Arc Raiders Flashpoint Update. Attacks, weak points, counters, and loadout recommendations.

Understanding the Vaporizer

The Vaporizer is a new flying ARC type introduced in the Flashpoint Update. It patrols areas around ARC Operations like Close Scrutiny and uses devastating laser attacks with erratic, unpredictable movement patterns. Unlike ground-based ARC units, the Vaporizer attacks from above, making it a unique threat that requires different tactics than what most Raiders are used to.

Attack Patterns

The Vaporizer has two primary attacks. Its sustained laser beam tracks players and deals heavy damage per second. Breaking line of sight is the primary counter. It also performs strafing runs where it sweeps across an area at high speed. The strafing run is telegraphed by a brief hover and targeting laser before the sweep begins. When you see the targeting laser, move perpendicular to its direction immediately.

Weak Points and Damage Windows

The Vaporizer is most vulnerable during its hover phases between attacks. It pauses briefly to recharge and reposition, giving you a window to deal damage. Target the glowing core underneath its chassis for bonus damage. The core is exposed during hover phases and strafing run wind-ups.

Best Weapons Against Vaporizers

The <a href='/items'>Dolabra</a> energy shotgun excels against Vaporizers when they swoop low, dealing massive burst damage to the exposed core. For sustained damage at range, the <a href='/items/ferro-rifle'>Ferro Rifle</a> and <a href='/items/tempest'>Tempest</a> are solid choices. The new <a href='/items'>Surge Coil</a> deployable can zone Vaporizers away from an area since they avoid electrified zones.

Positioning and Cover

Always fight Vaporizers near structures with overhead cover. Buildings, tunnels, and rock overhangs let you break line of sight from the laser attack. Open areas are death zones. If caught in the open, sprint to the nearest cover before engaging. Never stand still when a Vaporizer is targeting you.

Solo vs Squad Tactics

Solo players should prioritize avoidance over engagement. Only fight Vaporizers when necessary and always have an escape route planned. In squads, designate one player to draw aggro while others deal damage during the Vaporizer's attack animations. Rotate the aggro target to prevent any single player from taking too much damage.