The Dam Control Tower Key is an epic-tier key in Arc Raiders. Its primary function is to unlock the door at the top floor of the Control Tower on the Dam Battlegrounds map. This is the only way to access that locked area, which contains high-value loot in various containers.
In practical play, this key is light (0.25 weight) and cannot be stacked (stack size 1). Its sell price is low, around 100 coins, so most players won’t bother selling it unless they already have multiple copies or no intention of using it.
The key can be acquired through scavenging, which is generally the most consistent method. Players often prioritize scavenging runs early in the game to collect keys like this because once you have it, you open areas that most other players can’t.
Keep in mind that scavenging is sometimes competitive. You’ll find that if you don’t grab a key early, other players might have already taken it, especially on popular servers. Timing and map knowledge make a big difference here.
Once you have the key, head to the Dam Battlegrounds map. The Control Tower is a tall building with multiple floors, and the key only works on the top-floor door. Other doors on the map will not respond, so don’t waste time trying.
Practical tips when using the key:
Watch for other players: The key door is often contested. If you hear gunfire nearby or see other players heading toward the tower, approach carefully.
Plan your exit: Once inside, the loot is valuable but limited. Have a route in mind to get out safely after looting.
Use it immediately: Don’t pick up the key and wait around. It’s better used right away to minimize the risk of losing it to other players.
Once the door is unlocked, you’ll find several types of loot containers scattered across the top floor. Based on common player behavior, here’s what to expect:
Weapon Cases: These contain random weapons or upgrades. They are the most sought-after containers inside the tower.
Ammo Cases: If you’re running low on ammo, these are a lifesaver. However, the content can vary, so don’t rely on finding exactly what you need.
Medical Bags: Useful for replenishing health in a pinch, especially if you’ve had to fight other players on your way to the tower.
Lockers: These sometimes contain crafting resources or blueprints. For players looking to advance their gear, these are the main attraction. In fact, some players prioritize opening these lockers because they can eventually sell arc raiders blueprints for in-game currency or trade.
From my experience, it’s rare to find every type of container filled with high-quality loot, so manage your expectations. The tower is more about reliable access to useful items than guaranteed epic drops.
The key itself has a very low sell price, so in most cases, it’s not worth selling directly. Its real value comes from the loot it unlocks. Only sell it if you’re absolutely sure you don’t plan to use it, or if you’ve already opened multiple doors and have duplicates. Otherwise, keeping it gives you access to resources that other players can’t reach.
Here are a few practical strategies I’ve developed through multiple runs:
Scout the tower first: Before heading straight in, check if other players are nearby. Climbing the tower can take time, and you don’t want to be ambushed mid-ascent.
Move quickly: Once you unlock the door, clear loot containers fast. Other players often respond to the sound of opening doors.
Team up if possible: Solo runs are viable, but having a teammate covering you can make a huge difference. One player can watch the entrance while the other grabs loot.
Prioritize high-value containers: Weapon cases and lockers should be opened first. Medical bags and ammo are secondary unless you’re low on health or supplies.
Exit safely: After looting, don’t linger. The tower is a hotspot for players looking to contest loot, and holding out too long often results in losing everything you just collected.
Q: Can I use the key multiple times? A: Yes, the key is reusable. You can open the Control Tower door every time you go to Dam Battlegrounds.
Q: Is it worth grabbing the key on every run? A: Only if you are planning to loot the tower. Carrying extra keys without using them is risky, especially if you get into fights and drop it.
Q: Can I find other keys inside the tower? A: Not typically. The tower mainly contains loot containers. Additional keys usually come from scavenging or mission rewards.
Q: Do enemies spawn inside the Control Tower? A: NPC enemies do not spawn inside the top floor. The risk is mostly other players. Plan accordingly.
The Dam Control Tower Key is a small item with high strategic value. Its primary purpose is unlocking the top-floor door in Dam Battlegrounds, giving you access to weapon cases, lockers, medical bags, and ammo cases. Knowing how to use it effectively—by timing your run, scouting for players, and prioritizing containers—can make a significant difference in your gameplay.
If you’re interested in crafting or trading, the lockers can yield valuable items, and it’s one of the places where players can sell arc raiders blueprints. The key itself isn’t valuable for direct sale, but the access it provides can give you a consistent advantage over other players. Approach the tower with a plan, and it will pay off.