TL;DR
- Use free loadouts to complete this quest risk-free since extraction isn’t required
- The EMP trap is located at Victory Ridge in the northwest map section near West Broken Ridge
- Three power switches must be activated in sequence: north cliff, east structure, and final location
- Expect potential PvP encounters and plan accordingly with defensive positioning
- Complete the entire sequence in approximately 8-12 minutes with proper route planning
Successfully navigating the Straight Record mission in Arc Raiders requires understanding both the objective mechanics and optimal preparation strategies. This guide provides comprehensive coverage of the EMP activation process from start to finish.
In Arc Raiders, restoration missions like Straight Record play a crucial role in establishing operational infrastructure against the ARC threat. Celeste dispatches you to the Dam Battlegrounds surface to reactivate a dormant electromagnetic pulse device. This multi-stage operation involves locating the primary EMP unit followed by activating three separate power relays. Proper preparation significantly impacts your success rate and resource conservation.
Since extraction isn’t mandatory for quest completion, deploying with complimentary gear eliminates potential equipment losses. This approach lets you focus purely on objective completion without worrying about resource depletion from player encounters or environmental hazards. Consider this strategy especially valuable during initial learning phases.
Your primary objective begins at Victory Ridge, situated in the northwestern quadrant of the Dam Battlegrounds map. This elevated position lies slightly southwest of the West Broken Ridge landmark, offering strategic visibility but also potential exposure. Navigating to this location typically presents minimal difficulty, though situational awareness remains essential.
Upon reaching the designated area, you’ll identify the EMP apparatus as a slender, towering mechanism encircled by conductive wiring. The distinctive silhouette makes recognition straightforward even from moderate distances. Initial interaction reveals the device’s inactive status, automatically triggering the subsequent power restoration phase.
First switch location
Three separate power switches require activation to restore functionality to the EMP system. Fortunately, all relays reside within close proximity, minimizing travel time between objectives. Systematic activation following the recommended sequence optimizes efficiency and reduces backtracking.
The initial power relay occupies a compact cliff formation directly north of the main EMP unit. Circumnavigate the rock formation’s perimeter to access the switch interface. Engagement initiates the power distribution sequence.
Positioned east of the primary device, the secondary switch resides atop a collapsed architectural framework. Utilize scattered debris as improvised climbing apparatus to reach the elevated platform housing the control mechanism.
Second switch location
Third switch location
The final switch completes the power restoration circuit. Its precise location varies slightly between instances but consistently remains within visual range of the primary EMP apparatus. Completion of this final activation enables the main device functionality.
Anticipate potential opposition from both ARC units and fellow raiders pursuing identical objectives. While cooperative play remains an option, defensive positioning during switch activation reduces vulnerability. High ground advantage near each relay location provides tactical oversight.
Common errors include inadequate perimeter scanning before engagement, resulting in ambush scenarios. Additionally, misidentifying the EMP device can waste valuable mission time. The tall, wire-wrapped structure distinguishes it from other environmental objects.
Efficient route planning between switches typically yields completion within 8-12 minutes. Factor in additional time for enemy encounters or assisting other players. While extraction isn’t mandatory, completing additional objectives before departure maximizes resource acquisition. For comprehensive gameplay mechanics, consult our Complete Guide to enhance your overall performance.
Mastering these restoration missions contributes significantly to your progression in Arc Raiders. The reactivated EMP infrastructure provides strategic advantages in subsequent engagements against ARC forces. For weapon optimization strategies, explore our Weapons Unlock guide, and for role specialization, reference the Class Guide for detailed loadout recommendations.
Action Checklist
- Select free loadout to conserve resources
- Navigate to Victory Ridge in northwest map sector
- Locate and interact with tall, wire-wrapped EMP device
- Activate northern cliff power switch
- Climb collapsed eastern structure for second switch
- Locate and activate final power switch
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Arc Raiders Straight Record Quest Guide Complete guide to locating the EMP trap and power switches in Arc Raiders' Straight Record quest with expert strategies