Arc Raiders: Root of the Matter Quest Guide & Seed Vault Location
In the harsh, unforgiving world of Arc Raiders, every trip to the surface is a gamble. As a Raider, your mission is to scavenge for vital resources that will help the underground colony of Speranza survive and grow. One of the critical early quests that sets you on this path is "The Root of the Matter," a task that sends you into a high-danger zone in search of something precious: a repository of seeds.
This quest requires you to find a specific seed vault located within the imposing Research Building. Navigating this structure can be a challenge, especially with ARC machines patrolling the grounds. This guide will walk you through every step, from starting the quest to locating the seed vault in the "room with a great view," ensuring you can secure a brighter future for your people.
How to Start The Root of the Matter
Before you can begin your search, you first need to accept the quest. "The Root of the Matter" is provided by Celeste, one of the key figures in Speranza. You can typically find her near The Dam area, where she will task you with this important mission. Her goal is to secure the genetic diversity of pre-war flora, and she believes the old Research Building holds the key.
Once you have the quest in your log, your objective will be clear: journey to the Research Building and find the seed vault.
Navigating to the Research Building
The Research Building is a significant point of interest on the topside map. As its name implies, it's a large, multi-story structure that stands out against the landscape. Depending on your drop point, you may need to traverse a significant distance to reach it, so be prepared for encounters along the way.
The area surrounding the building is often patrolled by ARC units. It's wise to approach with caution, using cover and elevation to your advantage. Scout the perimeter before rushing in, and decide whether it's better to engage the robotic threats or attempt to sneak past them to conserve ammunition and health for the dangers that lie within.
Finding the "Room with a Great View"
Once you've breached the Research Building's exterior, the real search begins. The quest objective points you toward a "room with a great view." This is a descriptive clue, not a marker on your HUD, meaning you'll need to do some exploring.
Here's how to find the specific room:
- Head Upwards: A "great view" almost always means height. Your primary goal upon entering the Research Building should be to find a way to the upper floors. Look for stairwells or intact elevator shafts you can climb.
- Look for Large Windows: As you ascend, keep an eye out for rooms with large, panoramic windows. Many of the building's smaller offices and labs will have standard windows, but you are looking for a more significant observation room or executive office.
- Identify the Correct Room: The room you're searching for is often a corner office or a high-level laboratory. It will have a sweeping vista of the world outside, likely overlooking the terrain you just crossed. This is the "great view" the quest refers to.
Be methodical in your search. The building can be a maze of corridors and labs, and ARC patrols may be present inside as well. Clear each floor carefully as you make your way up to your destination.
Where to Find the Seed Vault
You've found the room with the stunning, post-apocalyptic view. Now, where is the seed vault? It's not a massive, bank-style vault. Instead, you are looking for a much smaller, specialized storage unit.
Within the "room with a great view," scan the area for a piece of scientific equipment or a reinforced container. The seed vault is a small, typically white or metallic cabinet, often located against a wall or near a research console. It may have a terminal or a keypad on it.
Approach the unit and interact with it. Your character will open the vault and retrieve the data or samples, which will immediately update your quest objective.
Completing the Quest and Getting Out Safely
One of the most important things to know about "The Root of the Matter" is that you do not need to successfully extract from the surface to complete the quest. The moment you interact with the seed vault, the objective is marked as complete and your progress is saved.
This is a crucial piece of information for a few reasons:
- Reduced Risk: If you are low on health or ammo after fighting your way to the vault, you don't need to risk a dangerous fight to a distant extraction point.
- Strategic Freedom: You can focus solely on the objective. Once it's done, your priority can shift to simply surviving and getting out alive, or you can choose to continue scavenging in the area if you're in good shape.
With the seed data secured, carefully make your way out of the Research Building. Your mission is a success, and you've brought Speranza one step closer to a sustainable future.
FAQ: The Root of the Matter
Do I need a special item to open the seed vault?
No, the quest does not require you to find a keycard or a code. As long as the quest is active, you will be able to interact with and open the seed vault once you locate it.
Can I complete this quest solo?
Yes, "The Root of the Matter" can be completed by a solo player. However, given the dangers of the Research Building and its surrounding area, tackling it with a squad is highly recommended to improve your chances of survival.
What happens if I die after finding the seed vault but before extracting?
Your quest progress is saved the instant you interact with the vault. If you are eliminated afterward, you will not need to return to the Research Building to complete the objective again. The quest will remain completed.