The Untended Garden quest in Arc Raiders sends you back into the dangerous Dam Battlegrounds to retrieve crucial research data from the Hydroponic Dome Complex. This extraction shooter quest might seem tricky at first, but with the right approach, you can complete it quickly and safely without risking your best gear. Whether you’re new to Arc Raiders or just need clear directions, this guide will walk you through every step of the quest.
Key Takeaways
- Quest Location: Hydroponic Dome Complex in northwestern Dam Battlegrounds
- Primary Objective: Access data archive in southernmost dome, then upload to nearby Field Depot
- No Extraction Required: You can complete this quest without extracting, saving your best gear
- Free Loadout Recommended: Use basic equipment since you don’t need to extract with valuable items
- Closest Extraction: Central Swamp Lift (if available) after completing objectives
- Quest Giver: Celeste at the Dam settlement
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate, mainly navigation-focused
Understanding the Untended Garden Quest
The Untended Garden quest is one of the early missions you’ll receive from Celeste in Arc Raiders. As an extraction shooter, Arc Raiders challenges you to complete objectives while avoiding enemy Raiders and hostile ARC machines. This particular quest focuses on data retrieval rather than combat, making it perfect for players who want to complete objectives without heavy fighting.
You’ll be exploring the underground society of Speranza’s research facilities, specifically the Hydroponic Dome Complex where valuable agricultural research was conducted before the ARC invasion. The data you’re retrieving could help humanity’s survival efforts, which adds narrative importance to your mission.
For more information about Arc Raiders’ setting and gameplay mechanics, check out our comprehensive Arc Raiders system requirements guide to ensure your PC can handle the action.
How to Find the Hydroponic Dome Complex?
Locating the Hydroponic Dome Complex is your first major challenge in the Untended Garden quest. This facility is situated in the northwestern section of Dam Battlegrounds, one of the first maps you’ll encounter in Arc Raiders. The complex consists of several large dome structures that are visible from a distance, making navigation easier once you know what to look for.
When you drop into Dam Battlegrounds, head toward the northwest corner of the map. You’ll recognize the Hydroponic Dome Complex by its distinctive glass and metal dome structures. The area is frequently visited by other Raiders, so stay alert and move carefully between cover points. The complex represents one of the more valuable locations on the map, which explains the higher player traffic.
Pro tip: Consider dropping during less busy times or using a quieter spawn point to reduce encounters with hostile players. Since you don’t need to extract with valuable items, you can focus purely on reaching your objective rather than looting.
Where to Access the Data Archive in the Dome?
Once you arrive at the Hydroponic Dome Complex, your next objective is to find and access the data archive. Head specifically to the southernmost dome of the complex – this is where the quest objective is located. The dome will have a computer terminal in the center that contains the research data Celeste needs.
Inside the southern dome, look for a computer terminal with glowing screens. This is your data archive. Simply walk up to it and interact to download the research data. The process is quick and doesn’t require any special items or tools. Be aware that other Raiders might also be visiting this location for the same quest, so keep your guard up during the download process.
The data archive contains information about hydroponic farming techniques that could help sustain the human population in Speranza. This narrative element adds depth to what might otherwise be a simple fetch quest, connecting your actions to the larger story of humanity’s survival against the ARC threat.
For players looking to optimize their loadout for similar quests, our Arc Raiders weapons tier list can help you choose the right gear for different situations.
How to Upload Data to Field Depot?
After accessing the data archive, your objective updates to upload the data to a computer terminal in any Field Depot. The good news is that there’s a Field Depot located just steps away from the Hydroponic Dome Complex, making this part of the quest straightforward.
Exit the southern dome using the southernmost exit, and you’ll spot a Field Depot nearby. Field Depots in Arc Raiders are large, rectangular metal buildings that resemble retro RVs, with a radar tower and blue tarpaulin on top. They’re easy to recognize once you know what to look for.
Inside the Field Depot, find the computer terminal along the back wall near the door. Interact with it to upload the data you just downloaded. This completes the main objectives of the Untended Garden quest. The upload process is instant, and you’ll receive quest completion confirmation immediately.
Field Depots are valuable locations in Arc Raiders, often containing good loot and serving as quest objectives for multiple missions. Learning their locations and layouts can significantly improve your efficiency in the game. For more tips on valuable locations, check out our guide on Arc Raiders Supply Drops.
Should You Extract After Completing the Quest?
One of the best aspects of the Untended Garden quest is that you don’t need to extract to complete it. This means you can use a free loadout without worrying about losing valuable items. Once you’ve uploaded the data to the Field Depot terminal, the quest is considered complete, and you can safely leave the match without extraction.
However, if you do want to extract with any loot you might have picked up along the way, the Central Swamp Lift is the closest extraction point to your location. This elevator is typically located to the southeast of the Hydroponic Dome Complex. Keep in mind that extraction points can be camped by other players, so approach with caution.
The ability to complete quests without extraction makes Arc Raiders more accessible to new players who might be hesitant to risk their hard-earned gear. It’s a smart design choice that allows players to progress through story content while they’re still learning the game’s mechanics.
For players looking to maximize their profits in Arc Raiders, our guide on the best Arc Raiders items to loot can help you prioritize what to grab during your raids.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Untended Garden Quest
Even experienced players can make mistakes during this quest. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
Bringing Expensive Gear: Since you don’t need to extract, bringing your best weapons and armor is unnecessary. Save your high-tier items for quests where extraction is required. This reduces the risk of losing valuable gear if you encounter hostile players.
Ignoring Other Players: The Hydroponic Dome Complex is a popular location, especially during peak hours. Always assume other players are nearby and move tactically between cover points. Use audio cues to detect approaching enemies.
Getting Lost: Dam Battlegrounds can be confusing for new players. Use landmarks like the distinctive dome structures and the nearby river to navigate. If you’re unsure about your location, check your map regularly.
Rushing the Upload: While the upload process is quick, rushing can make you vulnerable. Take a moment to scan the area and ensure it’s safe before interacting with the Field Depot terminal.
Missing the Closest Extraction: If you do decide to extract, many players miss the nearby Central Swamp Lift and travel to more distant extraction points, increasing their exposure to danger.
Understanding these common mistakes can help you complete the quest more efficiently and safely. For more advanced tips on navigating Arc Raiders’ world, check out our guide on Arc Raiders Arc Probes and Couriers locations.
Pro Tips for Completing Untended Garden Quest Faster
Experienced Raiders have developed several strategies to complete this quest quickly and safely:
Drop During Off-Peak Hours: The Hydroponic Dome Complex is busiest during evening hours. Try playing early morning or late night for fewer player encounters.
Use Audio Cues: Listen for footsteps, gunfire, and other player activities. Sound design in Arc Raiders is excellent for situational awareness.
Master the Route: Practice the route from spawn to Hydroponic Dome Complex to Field Depot. Knowing the path saves time and reduces exposure.
Coordinate with Teammates: If playing with others, have one player watch for enemies while others complete objectives. Teamwork makes this quest much safer.
Learn Multiple Extraction Points: While Central Swamp Lift is closest, knowing alternative extraction points gives you options if the primary one is compromised.
These strategies can help you complete the Untended Garden quest efficiently while minimizing risks. As you gain experience in Arc Raiders, you’ll develop your own techniques for navigating quests and avoiding danger.
For players looking to improve their overall performance, understanding the game’s mechanics is crucial. Our Arc Raiders PS5 gameplay guide offers insights into console-specific strategies and controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
### Where exactly is the Hydroponic Dome Complex in Dam Battlegrounds?
The Hydroponic Dome Complex is located in the northwestern section of Dam Battlegrounds. Look for distinctive glass dome structures that are visible from a distance. The complex consists of multiple domes, but you’ll want to focus on the southernmost one for the data archive. The area is marked on your in-game map once you accept the Untended Garden quest from Celeste. Many players use the nearby river as a navigation landmark since it runs close to the complex.
### Do I need to extract to complete the Untended Garden quest?
No, you don’t need to extract to complete the Untended Garden quest in Arc Raiders. Once you’ve accessed the data archive in the Hydroponic Dome and uploaded it to the Field Depot terminal, the quest is considered complete. This makes it one of the safer quests to attempt with a free loadout, as you won’t risk losing valuable items. However, if you do want to extract with any loot you’ve collected, the Central Swamp Lift is the closest extraction point to your location.
### What happens if I die during the Untended Garden quest?
If you die during the Untended Garden quest, you’ll lose any items you brought into the raid, but the quest progress is saved. When you return to the Hydroponic Dome Complex in another raid, you can continue from where you left off. This is why it’s recommended to use a free loadout for this quest – you won’t lose valuable gear if you get eliminated. The quest objectives will remain completed, so you won’t need to redo steps you’ve already finished.
### Can I complete the Untended Garden quest solo?
Yes, you can absolutely complete the Untended Garden quest solo in Arc Raiders. The quest doesn’t require any team coordination or special multiplayer mechanics. In fact, going solo might be advantageous as you’ll have a smaller profile and make less noise, potentially avoiding unwanted attention from other Raiders. Just be extra cautious about your surroundings and use cover effectively when moving between objectives.
### What level should I be to attempt the Untended Garden quest?
The Untended Garden quest is designed as an early-game mission in Arc Raiders, so you can attempt it at relatively low levels. Most players receive this quest around levels 5-10, but there’s no strict level requirement. Since the quest focuses on navigation rather than combat, your character level matters less than your knowledge of the map and awareness of other players. Just make sure you’re comfortable with basic movement and interaction mechanics before attempting it.
### Are there any ARC enemies near the Hydroponic Dome Complex?
Yes, the Hydroponic Dome Complex area can spawn ARC enemies, the hostile machines that threaten humanity in Arc Raiders. However, the spawn rate is relatively low compared to more contested areas. You might encounter basic ARC scouts or patrols, but they’re generally manageable with basic weapons. The bigger threat comes from other human Raiders who are also completing the quest or looting the area. Always be prepared for both AI and human enemies.
### What rewards do I get for completing the Untended Garden quest?
Completing the Untended Garden quest rewards you with experience points, reputation with Celeste, and potentially some basic gear or resources. The exact rewards can vary based on your current level and progression in the game. More importantly, completing this quest unlocks additional missions from Celeste and progresses the main story arc involving the research data from Speranza’s pre-ARC facilities. The narrative rewards often outweigh the material ones in early-game quests.
Conclusion
The Untended Garden quest in Arc Raiders serves as an excellent introduction to the game’s quest system and map navigation. By following this guide, you can complete the objectives efficiently while minimizing risks from other players and ARC enemies. Remember that you don’t need to extract to finish this quest, making it perfect for practicing your movement and awareness skills without pressure.
As you become more comfortable with Arc Raiders’ mechanics, you’ll find that quests like Untended Garden become routine parts of your raiding experience. The skills you learn here – navigation, situational awareness, and objective prioritization – will serve you well in more challenging missions later in the game.
Whether you’re a new player just starting your journey in Arc Raiders or an experienced Raider looking for a quick quest completion, the Untended Garden mission offers valuable rewards and story progression without excessive risk. Good luck out there, and may your raids be successful!
For more comprehensive guides on Arc Raiders, including tips on resetting your skill tree and finding valuable resources like Candleberries, be sure to explore our complete collection of Arc Raiders content.
