The wait is finally over. As Arknights: Endfield prepares for its global launch on January 22, 2026, players around the world are gearing up to step into the role of the Endministrator. This highly anticipated title from GRYPHLINE isn't just a sequel; it's a bold genre-blending experiment that fuses real-time action RPG combat with intricate industrial base-building. Whether you are a veteran of the original tower defense game or a newcomer drawn in by the stunning open world of Talos-II, the learning curve can be steep.

To help you hit the ground running, we've compiled this essential Arknights Endfield beginner guide. From mastering the critical "Perfect Dodge" mechanic to optimizing your Automated Industry Complex (AIC), these day-one strategies will ensure you stay ahead of the curve.

1. The Reroll Reality: Best Targets and Strategy

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the Arknights Endfield reroll guide. Unlike many gacha games where you can reset your account in minutes, Endfield requires significant time investment—roughly 30 to 40 minutes—to reach the point where the gacha system unlocks (after completing Chapter 1, Process II). Because of this lengthy tutorial, many veteran players recommend sticking with your initial pulls unless you are absolutely dedicated to min-maxing.

However, if you are determined to reroll, here are the best Arknights Endfield operators to target in the launch banner:

  • Laevatain (Tier S): A powerhouse Striker who specializes in AoE Heat damage. Her ability to absorb Heat Infliction stacks makes her a top-tier DPS for clearing mobs and bosses alike.
  • Last Rite (Tier S): A Cryo-element Striker capable of massive burst damage. If you pull her, look for her signature weapon, Khravengger, to maximize her potential.
  • Ardelia (Tier S): The premier support unit. Note: While she is S-Tier, new players will receive her for free on day 3 of the login event. We recommend prioritizing Laevatain or Last Rite for your reroll targets instead.

2. Master the 'Perfect Dodge' and Combat Flow

Combat in Endfield is a departure from the series' tower defense roots, featuring real-time squad battles. One of the most critical Arknights Endfield combat tips is mastering the Perfect Dodge. Dodging right before an enemy attack lands doesn't just prevent damage; it restores a chunk of your Stamina and, more importantly, recovers Skill Points (SP). This allows you to cycle through your operators' skills much faster, keeping the pressure on enemies.

Additionally, pay attention to the Stagger Gauge (the white bar under an enemy's HP). Using heavy attacks and skills will fill this gauge. Once full, the enemy is stunned and takes increased damage—this is your window to unleash your high-cost Ultimate abilities.

3. Understanding Elemental Reactions (The Arts System)

Just hacking and slashing won't cut it against high-level bosses. You must exploit the elemental system, known as "Arts." There are five elements: Physical, Heat, Electric, Cryo, and Nature. Combining these triggers powerful reactions:

  • Combustion (Heat + Any Element): Triggers an explosion and deals heavy damage over time. Great for whittling down tanky foes.
  • Corrosion (Nature + Any Element): shreds enemy defense, making them take more damage from all sources.
  • Solidification (Cryo + Any Element): Immobilizes enemies, stopping them in their tracks.

For Physical teams, focusing on applying "Vulnerable" stacks is key. At 4 stacks, using a "Crush" or "Breach" skill will deal massive burst damage.

4. The AIC: Don't Ignore Your Factory

The Arknights Endfield AIC base building system (Automated Industry Complex) is not a side minigame—it is the engine of your progression. The AIC is where you craft gear, refine materials, and generate resources even while you are offline. Neglecting your factory will severely bottleneck your character growth.

Beginner Base Building Tips:

  • Power Grid Basics: Your Protocol Anchor Core (PAC) generates power, but you need Relay Towers to extend it. Pylons distribute this power wirelessly to nearby machines. Always build Relay Towers on high ground to maximize their line-of-sight range.
  • Use Blueprints: Don't stress about making a "perfect" factory on day one. Use the default blueprints provided by the game to set up basic mining and refining loops for Originium and Copper. You can tear it down and optimize later.
  • Automate Early: As soon as you can, move away from manual mining. Set up conveyor belts to feed ores directly into refining units.

5. Launch Day Strategy: Story First, Explore Later

Talos-II is massive and tempting to explore, but your priority on launch day should be the Main Story. Many core systems—including the Gacha, the AIC, and advanced combat mechanics—are locked behind story progress. Aim to rush through the main quest until you unlock the AIC system and the ability to build Outposts.

Once your automated industry is humming in the background, you can freely explore the world, confident that your base is generating the resources you need to upgrade your Arknights Endfield tier list 2026 operators. Good luck, Endministrator.