The Clean Dream represents one of the more intricate multi-stage missions introduced to the ARC Raiders experience, specifically tied to the trader Apollo. Unlike straightforward combat contracts, this quest demands a mix of environmental navigation, stealth, and multi-map deployment. Completing it requires venturing into some of the most claustrophobic and high-traffic areas of both the Spaceport and Blue Gate sectors. This walkthrough details the most efficient pathing to secure the objectives and safely extract.

Mission Overview and Requirements

Apollo issues The Clean Dream as part of the broader narrative surrounding environmental maintenance and resource reclamation. The quest is structured in two distinct phases that cannot be completed in a single deployment, as they span two different maps.

Before heading out, ensure the quest is active in your log. The objectives involve searching containers and monitoring systems in the Spaceport tunnels, followed by a trip to the Blue Gate's maintenance bunker to interact with purification units and recover blueprints via photography.

Recommended Loadout

Given the nature of this quest, heavy combat is optional but environmental awareness is mandatory. Many veterans suggest a "Free Loadout" or a low-tier kit for these runs. Since the primary goals are interaction-based and do not require extracting high-value loot to progress the quest, risking expensive gear in the high-PvP traffic of the underground tunnels is often unnecessary.

  • Mobility: Light armor is preferable for quick repositioning in the tunnels.
  • Utility: Ensure your scanner is functional, as it helps highlight interactable objects like the filtration tanks.
  • Stealth: Suppressed weapons are highly recommended if you encounter ARC husks or drones while navigating the subsurface corridors.

Phase 1: Navigating the Spaceport Underground Tunnels

The first half of the journey begins at the Spaceport. Your goal is the sprawling network of tunnels that run beneath the central Launch Tower area. This zone is notorious for player ambushes due to its limited exit points and valuable loot density.

Finding the Tunnel Entrances

While there are several manholes and service ladders scattered around the Spaceport perimeter, the most reliable entrance for this quest is the collapsed concrete section located southwest of the Launch Tower. This entrance provides immediate access to the central artery of the tunnel system.

If the central entrance is being camped by other Raiders, consider the northern service ladder near the perimeter fence. It offers a more indirect route but allows for a stealthier approach to the mission area.

Objective: Search 4 Containers

Once inside the tunnels, you need to scavenge four containers. The game is generous with what qualifies: lockers, wall-mounted electrical boxes, toolboxes, and standard supply crates all count toward progress.

  • Tactical Tip: Containers that have already been opened by other players still count for your objective. If you stumble upon a room already looted, simply interact with the open boxes to register the search.
  • Location: Stick to the raised walkways and the small control rooms branching off the main transit pipes. These areas contain the highest density of searchable electronics.

Objective: Monitor the Filtration System

After the containers are searched, your HUD will update to track the filtration system. These are large, vertical tanks—usually painted a dull green—that are integrated into the tunnel's plumbing network.

One of the most accessible filtration units is located directly adjacent to the water valve used in the "Switching the Supply" mission. If you entered through the collapsed concrete hole, look to your immediate right in the first large chamber. Approach the console on the tank and hold the interact button to "monitor" the system. Once the progress bar fills, the Spaceport portion of the quest is technically finished.

Transitioning and Extraction

You do not need to survive to progress to the Blue Gate phase, but extracting allows you to keep any secondary loot found in the tunnels. The nearest extraction point from the tunnels is often the service elevator or a nearby surface hatch. If the area is quiet, make a break for the surface. Once back at Speranza, check in with Apollo to confirm the sub-objectives are checked off before deploying to Blue Gate.

Phase 2: The Blue Gate Maintenance Bunker

The second half of the quest takes place on the Blue Gate map. Your destination is the Maintenance Bunker, a facility nestled in the rugged terrain between the Warehouse Complex and the Ancient Fort.

Locating the Bunker

The bunker is situated southeast of the Checkpoint point of interest (POI). Look for a small, unassuming structure built into the side of a hill, marked by a descent of concrete stairs leading into the earth. This area is frequently patrolled by Rocketeers and ARC drones, so clear the immediate perimeter before heading inside.

Objective: Monitor the Purification System

Upon entering the bunker, descend the main staircase into the primary industrial hall. At the center of the room, you will see massive cylindrical purification tanks. These are significantly larger than the filtration units found in the Spaceport.

Jump down to the lower floor and interact with the primary console located between the cylinders. Be mindful of the audio; the bunker's echoes can mask the sound of approaching Raiders coming down the stairs behind you.

Objective: Photograph the Blueprints

The final task is often the most missed. Do not leave the bunker immediately after monitoring the tanks. Instead, climb the blue metal staircase back toward the upper walkway.

Near the entrance area, there is a small side office or admin room. Inside, you’ll find desks covered in old monitors and stacks of paper. On one of these desks lies a specific stack of blueprints marked with a slight glow.

  • Action: You must use the interaction prompt to "Take Photo." Unlike some other quests where you use a dedicated camera gadget, this is typically a contextual interaction.
  • Confirmation: Once the photo is taken, a notification will appear indicating the quest is ready for turn-in.

Secure Extraction from Blue Gate

The Maintenance Bunker is conveniently located near the Overlook Air Shaft extraction point. If this extraction is active, it is the safest bet for a quick exit. If not, you will need to navigate toward the perimeter. Remember that the quest is considered complete once the photo is taken; even if you are neutralized before extraction, the progress remains. However, successful extraction is always the goal to maintain your gear economy.

Reward Analysis: Is The Clean Dream Worth It?

Returning to Apollo in Speranza concludes the mission. The rewards for The Clean Dream provide a solid boost for mid-tier progression:

  1. Deadline (x1): A specialized component or tool often used in high-end crafting or as a specific currency for advanced trader unlocks. In the current meta, holding onto these is wise for future base upgrades.
  2. Showstopper (x3): These are potent consumables. Given the increasing difficulty of ARC encounters in the late-game zones, having a stack of Showstoppers can mean the difference between a successful extraction and a total loss.
  3. Heavy Fuze Grenade (x3): Essential for crowd control against larger ARC units. The blast radius and armor penetration of the Heavy Fuze variant make them a staple for any serious Raider's belt.

Final Tactical Advice

The Clean Dream is a test of navigation more than raw firepower. The hardest part is often the transit between objectives in the Spaceport tunnels, where visibility is low and the threat of PvP is constant. By using the collapsed entrance and maintaining a low profile, you can bypass most of the danger.

In the Blue Gate phase, speed is your ally. The bunker is a confined space; get in, interact with the tanks, snap the photo, and get out. If you hear the distinctive hum of ARC reinforcements arriving, prioritize the blueprint photo and prepare to defend the staircase.

Completing this quest not only clears your log but also deepens your standing with Apollo, paving the way for more lucrative—and dangerous—contracts in the future.