If you’ve been playing Arc Raiders, you’ve probably noticed that quests often combine exploration, scavenging, and combat. One quest that tends to confuse newer players is Broken Monument, given by the trader Tian Wen. This guide breaks down the quest in a practical way, explaining what you need to do, how the objectives work in general, and what most players focus on to complete it efficiently.
Who Gives the Broken Monument Quest?
Broken Monument is provided by Tian Wen, a trader located in the Dam Battlegrounds. In general, Tian Wen’s quests involve searching for items left behind in old battlegrounds or raider camps. Most players treat his tasks as a mix of exploration and scavenging, rather than combat-heavy missions.
When you accept the quest, Tian Wen emphasizes that this isn’t a salvage mission. In practice, that means players usually avoid destroying anything in the area and instead focus on identifying items that stand out. This is important because the quest rewards depend on collecting specific objects, not on breaking containers or looting indiscriminately.
What You Need to Do in Broken Monument
The quest is structured as a series of exploration and retrieval steps, usually completed within a single round. Here’s how it works in practice:
Reach the hallowed grounds near the Scrap Yard Most players start by heading directly to the Scrap Yard area, since this is the most obvious location for the First Wave battleground. In general, the game doesn’t guide you step by step, so following the map and environmental cues is necessary. Look for broken-down vehicles or distinctive landmarks.
Search for the compass near broken-down vehicles The First Wave Compass is typically placed in spots that seem like they might have been used in the past, often near wrecks or rubble. Most players scan these areas carefully instead of rushing through, because it’s easy to miss small interactive objects.
Search for the video tape near cylindrical containers In practice, video tapes are tucked near clusters of containers or barrels. Players often check every stack, as missing the tape will prevent quest completion. It’s usually quicker to systematically sweep container groups rather than randomly searching.
Search for old field rations in the Raider camp Field rations are found in abandoned raider camps. Most players notice that these rations are placed on tables, crates, or near campfire spots. You don’t need to fight anyone unless there are hostile NPCs or other players nearby, depending on the game mode.
Deliver the items back to Tian Wen After collecting the First Wave Tape, First Wave Compass, and First Wave Rations, you return them to Tian Wen. Most players deliver them in the order collected, but the game doesn’t strictly require a specific sequence. Once delivered, you receive the standard rewards:
1× Arpeggio I
1× Compensator II
80× Medium Ammo
These rewards are usually sufficient for most players to upgrade basic gear or resupply before further missions.
Tips for Efficient Completion
From experience, there are several strategies that make Broken Monument smoother:
Take your time in each location – While the quest isn’t combat-heavy, items can be small or hidden. Most players scan methodically rather than sprinting from point to point.
Pay attention to environmental storytelling – Even though the quest is about gathering items, the placement of objects often reflects the old battleground. Noticing these cues can save time and prevent backtracking.
Avoid unnecessary destruction – Since Tian Wen emphasizes respect for the site, destroying objects won’t help you and can sometimes remove interactive items.
Be aware of other players – In multiplayer raids, other players may interfere or take items first. Most players plan a route to minimize competition.
How Players Usually Handle Rewards
Once the quest is complete, players typically evaluate their rewards based on current inventory needs:
Arpeggio I is often used as an entry-level weapon, useful for general combat.
Compensator II usually serves as a weapon attachment or modification. Players often combine it with their preferred loadout for better performance.
Medium Ammo is universally useful, so most players stock up even if they don’t need it immediately.
Some players also explore secondary markets for gear optimization. For example, it’s common to see references to the ARC Raiders items marketplace with low prices on U4N, which can help players access specific equipment more quickly. In general, these marketplaces are used to supplement in-game progression rather than replace exploration entirely.
Common Player Questions About Broken Monument
Is Broken Monument Combat-Heavy?
Not usually. While there may be some hostiles near raider camps or scrap yards, the focus is on exploration and item retrieval. Most players find it easier than missions that require constant fighting.
Do I Need a Specific Level or Gear?
Most players can complete this quest at a moderate level. Since combat is limited, even standard weapons and basic armor are usually sufficient. Higher-level gear mainly speeds up movement and reduces risk from random encounters.
Are the Items Randomized?
In general, the quest items—Compass, Tape, and Rations—appear in fixed locations. However, environmental clutter can make them harder to spot, so careful searching is essential.
Can This Quest Be Repeated?
Broken Monument is usually a one-time quest per storyline progression. Once completed, players often move on to follow-up quests like Marked for Death or Straight Record.
How Long Does the Quest Take?
For most players, it takes around 15–30 minutes to complete, depending on familiarity with the map and search efficiency. First-time players may take longer if they explore the area thoroughly.
Broken Monument is a straightforward exploration quest in Arc Raiders that emphasizes careful searching over combat. Most players approach it methodically, scanning the Scrap Yard and Raider camp areas for the First Wave Compass, Tape, and Field Rations. Respecting the environment, following environmental cues, and planning efficient routes are key to completing it without frustration. Rewards include useful items like Arpeggio I, Compensator II, and Medium Ammo.
For players looking to expand their gear options, it’s common to consider resources like the ARC Raiders items marketplace with low prices on U4N, though in-game completion provides everything necessary to progress.
Overall, Broken Monument is a good example of a quest that blends lore, exploration, and light scavenging. Most players treat it as a minor but meaningful mission in the early-mid game progression.
Power Level Tips: Arc Raiders Defibrillator Blueprint Location, Use, Craft, Guide
