Adding another way to play and enjoy ARC Raiders, Embark Studios are running a limited Beta test of a a solely PvE mode for those who aren’t in the mood for the classic PvPvE action we’ve all been used to. Here’s the statement from the ARC Raiders website.
“We’re excited to share that we will be testing a PvE matchmaking toggle in ARC Raiders, and it’s coming soon!
The test will run from October 13-20, 2026, giving players the option to choose between the classic ARC Raiders PvPvE experience or a PvE experience focused on co-op gameplay with other Raiders versus the ARC threat.
Before we get into the details of the test, we want to take a step back and explain how we got here, and why we’re exploring this feature now.”
The Vision of ARC Raiders
When ARC Raiders was conceived seven years ago, the vision of the game was quite different.
We originally envisioned a raid-based PvE Co-op game with looting mechanics. While the concept showed promise, we ran into significant challenges, and eventually decided to reset the game and build the high-tension PvPvE Extraction adventure that you know today.
But when the game launched, we were pleasantly surprised; It wasn’t just extraction shooter fans who came to the Rust Belt, but a wide array of different players finding unique ways to enjoy the world. ARC Raiders became the “Extraction (Don’t) Shooter”, reaching a vibrant and diverse audience. This is something we’re very proud of here at Embark Studios.
As with all live games, the design should be an ongoing conversation with you, the players. Our goal is to stay true to the core principles on which ARC Raiders was built, but also respecting player choice and supporting different playstyles.
Introducing the PvE Matchmaking Toggle Beta test
To make a long story short, we’re going to be running a test with a PvE matchmaking toggle. This is how it will work:
- The test will run from October 13-20, 2026.
- During the test, you will be able to toggle between the classic ARC Raiders PvPvE experience and the PvE experience.
- In the PvE experience there will be zero player-to-player damage, and the session is purely focused on the ARC threat and co-op social dynamics.
- PvE sessions will include Solos, Duos and Trios in the same session.
- We’re designing the system for seamless switching, play PvE for a relaxed solo session then switch back to PvPvE for a high tension match.
- Some major conditions, Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate and Frigate will be excluded from the PvE matchmaking test. These are designed with higher tension in mind and rely on the uncertainty of encountering a variety of players.
- Your PvPvE matchmaking rating will not be affected while playing in PvE sessions.
- It’s important to remember that this is, at least initially, a limited test. When the test ends, the toggle will be removed and matchmaking will return to normal. Your feedback and data will help to shape the future of this system.
See what our Mick thought of the original release of ARC Raiders back in the mists of 2025 and for even more details on this upcoming Beta, running from October 13-20, check out the the original post here.
