Let me tell you something – when I first picked up the Back on Top quest from Tian Wen in ARC Raiders, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I mean, how hard could it be to spray paint a few walls, right? Boy, was I in for a surprise! After spending countless hours getting shot at, running from ARC machines, and searching every corner of every map, I’ve finally mastered this quest. And I’m here to share everything I’ve learned so you don’t have to go through the same pain I did.
What is the Back on Top Quest?
The Back on Top quest is one of those missions that seems simple on the surface but requires quite a bit of dedication to complete. Tian Wen, the gun trader in Speranza, gives you this quest as part of her efforts to set up new outposts topside. And let me tell you, the rewards are totally worth the effort – especially in a game where losing your gear is always just one wrong move away.
Quest Giver: Tian Wen (Gun Trader in Speranza)
Quest Type: Multi-location Spray Mission
Estimated Time to Complete: 4+ matches (since you need to visit different maps)
Complete Quest Objectives
To finish the Back on Top quest, you’ll need to spray paint specific locations across all four maps in ARC Raiders. Here’s exactly what you need to do:
| Map | Location | Specific Target |
|---|---|---|
| Dam Battlegrounds | Pattern House | Wall facing west on ground floor |
| The Blue Gate | White Lookout Tower | South-facing wall |
| Spaceport | South Trench Tower | South-east facing wall at ground level |
| Buried City | Building with Mural | Wall on right side of doorway |
Now, let me break down each location in detail because trust me, finding these spots can be frustrating if you don’t know exactly where to look.
Location 1: Dam Battlegrounds – Pattern House
Objective: On Dam Battlegrounds, mark the Pattern House
When I first tried to find the Pattern House, I spent way too much time wandering around like a headless chicken. Here’s exactly where you need to go:
- Head to the Power Generation Complex area of Dam Battlegrounds
- Look for the residential area on the north side of this complex
- Find the Pattern House building
- Go to the ground floor and locate the wall facing west
- Interact with the wall to spray paint your mark
Pro Tip: I learned the hard way that you don’t need to find a specific spot on the wall – any part of that west-facing ground floor wall will work. Don’t waste time like I did trying to find the “perfect” spot!
Location 2: The Blue Gate – White Lookout Tower
Objective: On The Blue Gate, mark the white lookout tower south of the Warehouse Complex
This one gave me some trouble too, mainly because there are several towers in The Blue Gate map. Here’s how to find the right one:
- Spawn into The Blue Gate map
- Head toward the Warehouse Complex (you can’t miss it)
- Look south of the Warehouse Complex for a tall white-colored lookout tower
- Once you find it, look for the south-facing wall
- Interact with this wall to leave your spray paint mark
Personal Experience: I recommend approaching this area with caution. The Warehouse Complex is a high-traffic area, and I’ve gotten into more firefights here than I can count. Maybe bring some extra ammo just in case!
Location 3: Spaceport – South Trench Tower
Objective: On Spaceport, mark the South Trench Tower
The Spaceport map can be confusing with all its similar-looking structures, but I’ve got you covered:
- Drop into the Spaceport map
- Navigate to the area between East Hangar and The Trench (two major points of interest)
- Look for the South Trench Tower in this area
- Find the south-east facing wall at ground level
- Interact with the wall to complete this objective
Helpful Hint: When I was doing this part, I found it helpful to use the map markers and terrain features to orient myself. The South Trench Tower is pretty distinctive once you know what you’re looking for!
Location 4: Buried City – Building with Mural
Objective: On Buried City, mark the building with the mural in the Buried Properties
This final location is probably the most confusing of the bunch, but don’t worry – I’ll walk you through it:
- Load into the Buried City map
- Head to the Buried Properties area
- Go north from Buried Properties toward the Galleria
- Look for a small hut or building with a giant mural on its walls
- Find the wall on the right side of the doorway
- Interact with this wall to complete your final objective
What I Learned: This building is easy to miss if you’re not looking carefully. The mural is quite large and colorful, so keep your eyes peeled for something that stands out from the usual drab post-apocalyptic scenery!
Quest Rewards
After you’ve completed all four spray paint objectives, head back to Speranza and talk to Tian Wen to claim your rewards:
- 1x Renegade I (A solid weapon for your arsenal)
- 1x Stable Stock III (Weapon attachment for improved stability)
- 80x Medium Ammo (Always useful in a firefight)
Let me tell you, these rewards are pretty sweet, especially the Renegade I. In a game where dying means losing all your gear, having a reliable weapon and ammo is absolutely crucial for survival.
Tips for Completing the Quest Efficiently
Based on my experience grinding through this quest, here are some tips that will save you time and frustration:
1. Plan Your Matches Wisely
Since you need to visit four different maps, this quest will take at least four separate matches to complete. I recommend focusing on one objective per match rather than trying to rush through multiple objectives in a single match.
2. Time Your Approach
I’ve found that the beginning of a match is usually the best time to complete these objectives. Most players are still looting or getting oriented, so you’re less likely to encounter hostile players.
3. Bring the Right Gear
While you don’t need heavy combat gear for this quest, I always bring:
- A decent weapon for self-defense
- Some healing items
- Movement-enhancing equipment for quick getaways
4. Use Map Knowledge
Each spray location is near major points of interest, which means they’re also near high-traffic areas. Learn the layout of each map to plan your approach and escape routes.
5. Don’t Get Greedy
Once you’ve completed your spray objective for that match, don’t stick around trying to grab extra loot. I’ve made this mistake too many times – complete the objective and extract safely!
2026 Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen so many players (including myself) make these mistakes while trying to complete the Back on Top quest:
Mistake 1: Looking for Exact Spray Spots
You don’t need to find a specific pixel-perfect spot on the wall. Any part of the designated wall will work. I wasted so much time searching for “the right spot” before I figured this out!
Mistake 2: Ignoring Other Players
Just because you’re on a quest doesn’t mean other players won’t shoot you. Always be aware of your surroundings and ready for a fight.
Mistake 3: Rushing Through Maps
Take your time to learn each map’s layout. Rushing will only get you killed and set you back.
Mistake 4: Forgetting to Extract
After spraying, don’t forget you still need to extract safely to keep your progress. I’ve lost count of how many times I completed the objective only to die before extracting!
Why This Quest Matters
Beyond just the rewards, completing the Back on Top quest is important for several reasons:
- Progression: It’s part of Tian Wen’s quest chain, and completing it unlocks further missions
- Map Knowledge: You’ll learn the layouts of all four maps really well
- Resource Management: The rewards help with your overall gear situation
- Experience: You’ll gain valuable experience in navigating dangerous areas
Personal Experience and Final Thoughts
Let me be real with you – when I first started this quest, I hated it. I died multiple times, got lost, and nearly rage-quit several times. But now that I’ve mastered it, I actually appreciate what it teaches you about the game.
The Back on Top quest forces you to learn each map’s layout, understand high-traffic areas, and develop strategies for quick in-and-out operations. These are all skills that will serve you well throughout your ARC Raiders journey.
If you’re struggling with this quest, don’t give up! Take it one location at a time, learn from your mistakes, and soon you’ll be breezing through it like a pro.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to complete the Back on Top quest?
From my experience, it typically takes 4-6 hours spread across multiple gaming sessions, mainly because you need to complete each objective in separate matches.
Can I complete multiple objectives in one match?
Unfortunately, no. Each objective is tied to a specific map, so you’ll need to play at least four separate matches to complete all objectives.
What happens if I die after spraying but before extracting?
If you die before extracting, you’ll lose that match’s progress and will need to redo that objective in another match. Always extract safely after completing your spray!
Are the spray locations the same every time?
Yes, the spray locations are fixed and don’t change between matches. Once you learn where they are, you’ll be able to find them easily every time.
Can other players steal my spray progress?
No, once you’ve successfully sprayed a location, that progress is saved to your account even if you die later in the match.
What’s the best time to attempt these objectives?
I’ve found that the early morning or late night hours tend to have fewer players, making it easier to complete objectives without interference.
Do I need to bring specific equipment for this quest?
No special equipment is required, but I recommend bringing a decent weapon, some healing items, and movement-enhancing gear for quick getaways.
Can I complete this quest solo?
Absolutely! I completed most of it solo. Just be extra cautious and aware of your surroundings.
What level should I be before attempting this quest?
I’d recommend being at least level 15-20 before attempting this quest, as you’ll have better gear and more map knowledge by then.
Are there any shortcuts to finding these locations?
Unfortunately, no real shortcuts exist. The best approach is to learn the maps and use the landmarks I’ve mentioned in this guide.
Final Words of Advice
Look, I get it – this quest can be frustrating. There were times when I wanted to throw my controller across the room. But trust me when I say that completing the Back on Top quest will make you a better ARC Raiders player overall.
You’ll learn map layouts, develop better situational awareness, and understand the importance of patience and timing. Plus, those rewards are genuinely useful for your continued progression in the game.
So take a deep breath, follow this guide, and before you know it, you’ll be back on top – both in the quest and in your ARC Raiders journey!
Remember to bookmark this guide for future reference, and good luck out there, Raider! The ARC machines won’t know what hit them.