Arc Raiders has expanded its Buried City map with the Headwinds update, introducing a new Combat Recon quest that tests players’ ability to scout rather than fight. Unlike earlier missions like With a View or A Prime Specimen, this one skips the combat entirely—relying instead on finding three overlooked observation spots and retrieving a Spotter Relay to deliver to Shani.
The twist? These locations are scattered across familiar territory, but their exact coordinates remain elusive. Players must navigate Plaza Rosa, Parking Garage, and Marano Park—not just to complete the mission, but to avoid triggering Bombardiers and their Spotter drones, which respawn quickly if left unchecked.
Below is a breakdown of each location’s hidden vantage point, along with tips for securing the Spotter Relay without unnecessary risk.
Why This Quest Matters
Combat Recon isn’t just another fetch quest. It rewards players for mastering the map’s verticality—whether climbing attics, ziplining across rooftops, or sneaking into abandoned transit hubs. The mission also ties into broader objectives, as Spotter Relays are useful for other projects, like the Trophy Display. Destroying Spotters without killing their Bombardier parents ensures they respawn, making this a viable farming spot for players short on resources.
The Three Locations: Where to Look
Each of the three observation points offers a distinct challenge, from exposed rooftops to crowded plazas. Players can tackle them in any order, but timing matters—Bombardiers and other threats patrol these areas unpredictably.
- Plaza Rosa (Main Street): The most deceptive of the three. The clue—Main Street—is vague, but the correct vantage is the attic of the westernmost house in Plaza Rosa. From the roof window, players can overlook the plaza and trigger the mission’s objective. Warning: This area is a hotspot for Bombardiers and swarms of players.
- Parking Garage: Accessible via zipline, the roof of the Parking Garage offers a clear view of the southwestern stairwell. The prompt is near a broken railing at the top of the stairs. Like Plaza Rosa, this spot is exposed—Leapers and Rocketeers often lurk nearby.
- Marano Park: The simplest of the three. Enter the rusted bus near the metro entrance, facing Piazza Roma. The prompt appears at the back door. Given its central location and proximity to an exfil point, this is the safest spot to visit last.
Securing the Spotter Relay
The mission requires destroying two Spotter drones and retrieving at least one Spotter Relay. These drones are deployed by Bombardiers in the same three areas—Plaza Rosa, Parking Garage, and Marano Park—so players can combine objectives efficiently.
- Spotters respawn quickly if the Bombardier isn’t destroyed, allowing for farming.
- Avoid engaging the Bombardier itself—its presence will draw other threats.
- If you already have a Spotter Relay from previous missions, you can skip this step entirely.
Once all three locations are scouted and the relay is in hand, deliver it to Shani to complete the quest. The mission unlocks no loot but serves as a critical step for players pursuing side projects or mapping the Buried City’s hidden layers.
Looking Ahead
With Arc Raiders’ roadmap promising further updates, Combat Recon sets a precedent for future missions that emphasize exploration over brute force. Players who master these vantage points will be well-prepared for whatever comes next—whether it’s uncovering new secrets or adapting to evolving threats in Buried City.
