In Arc Raiders, the Dam Battlegrounds are home to some of the game’s most intense firefights, challenging enemies, and high-value missions. Among the many tasks you’ll encounter there, one from Tian Wen stands out — The Major’s Footlocker. This quest sends you to locate Major Aiva’s Mementos, an important item hidden somewhere within the sprawling apartment blocks of the Ruby Residence.

On the surface, this mission seems simple enough: find the mementos and extract them. But anyone who’s spent time topside knows that in Arc Raiders, “simple” can turn deadly fast. With hostile ARC machines and rival players roaming the area, knowing exactly where to go — and how to get out alive — can make all the difference. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to complete The Major’s Footlocker quest efficiently and safely.

Understanding The Major’s Footlocker Quest

After speaking with Tian Wen in Speranza, you’ll receive the objective to locate Major Aiva’s Mementos in the Dam Battlegrounds. The Dam is one of the more dangerous zones in the game, packed with enemy patrols, ambush points, and limited cover. The quest’s key challenge isn’t just finding the ARCR Items — it’s surviving long enough to extract with it.

That’s because, like most mission-critical items in Arc Raiders, you must successfully extract it to count as collected. Dying before you escape means losing the item and having to start over. For this reason, preparation before heading out is just as important as execution once you arrive.

Prep Before You Deploy

Before setting out for Ruby Residence, make sure you’re well-equipped for a long run. Here are a few essential tips to give yourself the best odds of success:

Bring an Augment with a Safe Pocket

Equip an augment that provides a safe pocket slot. This special inventory slot allows you to store one valuable item and keep it even if you die before extraction. Once you pick up the mementos, immediately stash them in this slot — it could save you from having to redo the mission if things go sideways.

Pack Light but Smart

You’ll be fighting through enemy patrols and possibly other players. Take reliable, silenced weapons if you have them, plus healing ARC Raiders Items and shield recharge kits. The goal isn’t heavy combat — it’s survival.

Scout Your Extraction Options

Know your exit points before you even land. The two best extractions near Ruby Residence are the North Complex Elevator and the Central Swamp Lift. The former is generally safer, while the latter is closer but often crowded with players farming resources.

Locating Major Aiva’s Mementos

Now, let’s get into the heart of the mission: finding the mementos.

Head to Ruby Residence

The Ruby Residence Point of Interest (POI) is located in the northwestern section of the Dam Battlegrounds. It’s a recognizable cluster of tall, weathered apartment buildings surrounded by debris and occasional ARC patrols.

Enter the Leftmost Apartment Building

Once you arrive, look for the leftmost building in the complex. This is where you’ll find Major Aiva’s belongings. The area may be crawling with enemies — including both mechanical ARCs and opportunistic raiders — so move carefully.

Ascend to the Top Floor (Not the Roof)

Inside the building, make your way up two full flights of stairs. You’re aiming for the top interior floor, not the roof. The hallways are narrow, so watch your corners and listen closely for any nearby footsteps.

Locate the Mementos Room

Follow the corridor to the far end of the floor until you reach a room with a window and a desk in the corner. On top of that desk, you’ll spot a small box — this is Major Aiva’s Mementos.

Interact and Secure the Item

Approach the box and hold the interaction button to collect the mementos. Once picked up, immediately open your inventory and move the item into your safe pocket if you have one. That way, you won’t lose it even if things go south before you extract.

Extracting Safely with the Mementos

With the quest item secured, your final challenge is to make it out alive. Extraction in Arc Raiders is always tense, but with some strategy, you can minimize risk.

Choose the Right Extraction Point

North Complex Elevator (East) – Typically, the safer route, with fewer players lurking nearby. It’s a longer trek, but well worth it if you want a higher chance of surviving.

Central Swamp Lift (South) – Faster to reach, but expect heavier player traffic. Many raiders farm the swamp for mushrooms and resources, so consider this route only if you’re confident or running low on time.

Avoid Open Areas

The Dam Battlegrounds are notorious for long sightlines — perfect for snipers. Stick to cover, move quickly, and use terrain to break visibility.

Keep an Eye on Audio Cues

Use the game’s directional audio to your advantage. The mechanical whir of an approaching ARC or distant gunfire can alert you before you stumble into danger.

Don’t Hesitate to Retreat

If extraction points are heavily contested, fall back and wait for a quieter moment. Losing a few minutes is better than losing your hard-earned loot.

Tips for a Smooth Run

Go Solo or in a Small Squad: Larger groups attract more attention and can be harder to manage in tight indoor areas like Ruby Residence.

Use Prox Chat Cautiously: If you encounter other players, communication might help you avoid unnecessary firefights — but always stay alert.

Watch for ARC Patrols: These machines tend to wander near residential structures. Lure them away before you enter the building if possible.

Wrapping Up

Once you extract safely, return to Tian Wen in Speranza to complete The Major’s Footlocker quest. You’ll be rewarded with valuable loot, experience, and the satisfaction of having successfully navigated one of the more deceptive missions in Arc Raiders.

While the task itself might seem simple — grab an item and extract — the danger comes from everything standing between you and that goal. Preparation, patience, and a bit of luck are key. Follow this guide, play it smart, and you’ll walk away with Major Aiva’s Mementos (and your life) intact.