In ARC Raiders, completing quests often means exploring dangerous locations, gathering specific materials, and understanding new mechanics that can make future expeditions easier. One objective that deserves attention is the Gondola Prototype mission, which is part of the “To The Skies” quest. Players need to locate the prototype at the top of the Dried Riverbed and bring the required material to complete the task. Preparing suitable ARC Raiders Items before heading out can make the journey more manageable, especially when the surrounding area presents unexpected threats.
Locating the Gondola Prototype
The main objective of the “To The Skies” quest is straightforward, but reaching the correct location is essential. The Gondola Prototype can be found at the top of the Dried Riverbed. Rather than spending time searching unrelated areas, players should focus their exploration on this specific destination and plan their route carefully.
Before leaving for the mission, check your available equipment and make sure you have enough supplies for the trip. Encounters with hostile machines or other Raiders can interrupt progress, so it is sensible to prepare for possible combat along the way. A well-planned expedition can save valuable time and reduce the risk of arriving at the objective without the materials needed to finish it.
Bring ARC Performance Steel Before Starting
Finding the prototype is only part of the task. Players must also bring ARC Performance Steel and install it at the designated site to advance the quest. Forgetting this requirement can force you to make another trip, which is particularly inconvenient when the map is dangerous or your inventory is already full.
For a smoother run, confirm that ARC Performance Steel is available before setting out. Organize your inventory so that essential quest materials are easy to manage, and avoid carrying unnecessary items that could take up useful space. If you are traveling with teammates, coordinating your supplies can also help everyone prepare efficiently.
Once you reach the top of the Dried Riverbed, locate the prototype and interact with the objective as required. Install the necessary material to progress through the mission. Taking care of these steps in the correct order helps you avoid confusion and makes the quest easier to complete.
Understanding the Ballistic Gondola
The Ballistic Gondola, also called the Sky Bucket or Gondola, introduces a different way to leave an expedition. Added in the Frozen Trail update on October 8, 2026, this extraction mechanic is available on the Pendola Pass map. Instead of relying exclusively on familiar extraction methods, players can use the gondola to make a dramatic departure from the battlefield.
To activate it, look for designated extraction icons on the map. These locations are associated with a Gondola Transceiver, which players can interact with to summon the capsule. Once activated, the gondola descends into the area by parachute, resembling the arrival of a supply drop.
This arrival animation provides a clear indication that the extraction opportunity is becoming available. However, players should still remain alert. An extraction point can attract attention, and rushing toward the gondola without checking the surrounding area may expose your squad to unnecessary danger.
How the Three-Seat Extraction Works
One unusual feature of the Ballistic Gondola is its limited interior space. The cabin physically accommodates only three seated players, which might initially seem restrictive for larger squads or groups attempting to escape together.
Fortunately, the seating limit does not necessarily prevent additional Raiders from joining the extraction. Players can climb onto the exterior of the gondola, ride on top of the capsule, or use a grappling hook to attach themselves as it launches toward Speranza. These options create opportunities for groups to leave together even when the interior seats are occupied.
Timing and coordination are important when using this mechanic. Teammates should communicate before boarding, decide who will occupy the seats, and make sure everyone understands how to secure a position outside the capsule. Since the gondola is an extraction method rather than a guaranteed safe zone, maintaining awareness of nearby threats remains important until departure.
Prepare for Better Expeditions
Learning how the prototype quest and Ballistic Gondola work can make future runs across ARC Raiders more efficient. The prototype objective rewards careful preparation, while the new extraction mechanic offers additional flexibility when planning an escape from Pendola Pass. Remember to carry ARC Performance Steel, follow the objective to the top of the Dried Riverbed, and familiarize yourself with Gondola Transceiver locations before relying on the new system.
Inventory management is another useful part of preparation. Keep the materials required for quests, choose equipment suited to your intended route, and avoid wasting resources on unnecessary detours. Players who want to improve their readiness can also look into cheap ARC Raiders BluePrints to explore additional options for developing their equipment plans. With the right preparation and a clear understanding of extraction mechanics, you can approach objectives more confidently and make each expedition count.
