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How to Complete the 'Empathetic Prototypes' Quest in Arc Raiders

A walkthrough for the 'Empathetic Prototypes' quest in Arc Raiders, including how to disable the magnetic lock on the cargo crate.

Oct 12, 2026
Guides & Tips
How to Complete the 'Empathetic Prototypes' Quest in Arc Raiders

The 'Empathetic Prototypes' quest in Arc Raiders presents a challenge for players, particularly after the 'Frozen Trail' update, due to its two distinct completion methods, each requiring either a rare key or skillful traversal. This quest tasks players with finding android companions for Lance and must be completed within a single round on Spaceport.

'Empathetic Prototypes' Quest Steps

The quest comprises five stages, though only four need to be completed as players must choose between two options for the second step. The entire sequence must be finished in one session.

  1. Reach the Trench Towers in the Spaceport Trench.
  2. Choose one of the following:
    • Find the terminal and disable the magnetic lock.
    • Find the magnetic lock on the crate and manually disable it.
  3. Search the cargo crate.
  4. Deliver the Project Pathos Empathy Core to Lance.

Locating the Crate and Disabling the Magnetic Lock

The Trench Towers are situated on the northern side of the map, specifically the North and South Trench Towers, positioned below the West and East Hangars and above The Trench.

For a simpler approach, players can utilize the Spaceport Trench Tower key. Upon entering the South Trench Tower with this key, a terminal will be available to override the magnetic lock.

Alternatively, if the key is unavailable, players will need a zipline and a grappling hook. Locate the cargo crate suspended beneath the North Trench Tower. To access it, find the ladder to the right of the crate, leading out of the trench.

The left-hand side of the image shows the player standing at the bottom of a zipline that leads to the crate with the magnetic lock in Arc Raiders while the right-hand side of the image shows the location of the crate marked on the in-game map with a star.

Ascend the ladder and aim the zipline towards the top of the crate. Successfully latching onto it will allow players to reach the top. A grappling hook can be useful here to prevent falling off.

The player in Arc Raiders on top of the crate to override the magnetic lock.

Once atop the crate, interact with the prompt on the hinge to manually override the magnetic lock, causing the crate to lower. Descend safely using the grappling hook. Search the crate at the bottom to retrieve the Project Pathos Empathy Core. It is advisable to secure this item in a safe pocket before delivering it to Lance, who will reward the player with 5,000 XP, a Canto SMG, and two stim shots.

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