The February 24, 2026, Shrouded Sky update for ARC Raiders has sparked major debate across the community, as the powerful IL Toro shotgun continues to overpower other weapons in player-versus-player encounters. Developer Embark Studios has confirmed that a nerf is now in the works following weeks of mounting complaints.
The Shrouded Sky update introduced new enemies, a dynamic Map Condition, and several crafting adjustments. Balance changes significantly weakened the Stitcher—reducing its headshot multiplier from 2.5 to 1.75 and lowering base damage to 6.5—along with notable reductions to the Kettle and Venator sniper rifles. These tweaks aimed to rein in the dominance of free loadouts and promote greater variety in combat. In community discussions about EZNPC ARC Raiders, gamers often mention it as a reliable option for saving time and getting the items they need quickly.
Crafting changes also affected the Wolfpack item, which now requires one Rocketeer Driver instead of two Explosive Compounds. Embark explained that this modification was designed to improve cost-effectiveness after feedback that the previous recipe made the item disproportionately strong.
Despite these updates, IL Toro escaped the first wave of balance changes. Its close-range lethality, amplified by a level 3 choke that extends its effective range, has turned it into a near-unstoppable force. Players report frequent encounters with the shotgun in duos and trios, calling it overpowered—especially in third-person ambushes where its burst damage leaves little room for counterplay.
Community frustration surged as other close-quarters weapons were weakened, leaving Toro as the default choice for aggressive players. Discussions on Reddit, Steam, and Discord have highlighted its two-shot kill potential and low crafting cost via the Tian Wen material, making it both accessible and devastating.
In response, a community manager for Embark Studios confirmed that a nerf is currently in development. The team is testing changes carefully using game telemetry and community discussions to ensure the weapon remains viable but balanced. This response mirrors earlier adjustments to the Wolfpack, which Embark described as part of its ongoing effort to fine-tune weapon balance and improve the player experience.
While many players welcome the news, the community remains divided. Supporters of IL Toro argue that as a high-powered shotgun, its strength fits the gritty, survivalist tone of ARC Raiders’ robot-ravaged world. Critics, however, contend that third-person peeking nullifies the risks usually tied to shotguns, making Toro’s power disproportionate.
Footage from streamers and PvP matches continues to showcase the shotgun’s extended-range damage, stoking calls for a timely fix. The recent buff to the Aphelion weapon suggests that Embark is preparing for broader changes to the game’s meta once the IL Toro adjustments take effect.
A well-judged nerf could reshape the ARC Raiders PvP landscape by encouraging more diverse weapon choices and reducing corner-camping frustration. With the Venator already adjusted and player interest growing, the upcoming patch could mark a turning point toward a more balanced and competitive experience. Players are advised to follow official Discord channels for the latest updates as Embark Studios works toward a healthier and fairer extraction shooter environment in 2026.
