Embark Studios has announced that it will conduct a limited-time “PvE Matchmaking Test” for the PvPvE escape shooter *ARC Raiders*.
The test is scheduled to take place from October 13 to 20.
Join Forces to Face the ARC Threat! “PvE Test” Begins October 13—Including Development Concepts and Data
The news article “Testing the PvE Switch: What It Means for You,” published on the official website, introduces the game’s original vision and development history, as well as data on the player base.
This “PvE Matchmaking Test” will be a limited-time mode available from October 13 to 20, allowing players to switch between the traditional PvPvE and PvE modes. Damage between players will be set to 0, and the test will focus on gameplay centered on confronting the ARC threat and cooperative play among Raiders.
In PvE mode, solo, duo, and trio players will deploy within the same session, and the developers have designed a system that allows for seamless switching to PvPvE matchmaking.
It has also been explicitly stated that data from PvE sessions will not affect ratings in the standard PvPvE matchmaking system, and certain content—such as “Night Raid,” “Hidden Cache,” and “Frigate”—will not be available via PvE matchmaking.
Furthermore, it appears there are unique mechanics specific to PvE mode, such as a reduction in the overall value of loot and the risk of being targeted again by the ARC if you move while downed after being taken down by it.
While “ARC Raiders” was originally conceived as a PvE co-op title, the development team reset the project after facing significant challenges and rebuilt it as the current PvPvE-style escape shooter. Since the game’s release, the developers have also expressed surprise at the diversity of players who have found unique ways to enjoy the game world.
Players who prioritize the friendly, cooperative playstyle that Embark Studios refers to as an “Extraction (Don’t) Shooter” account for 37% of the total player base, and this group has continued to grow since the game’s release.Players seeking pure PvP have stabilized at 34 percent, while 27 percent are hybrid players.
More than 70% of friendly players and 40% of PvP players want to reduce hostile encounters between Raiders, and friendly players in particular seem to have a clear tendency to avoid PvP.
This “PvE Matchmaking” test was prompted by the continued growth of a group of users interested in cooperative play and battles against the ARC—rather than fighting other raiders—and Embark Studios has noted, “It’s important to learn how to provide appropriate support, rather than making players figure out solutions on their own within the game.”
The Largest Update in History, “Frozen Path,” Launches October 8
Additionally, the game is scheduled to release its “largest-ever” major update, “Frozen Path,” on October 8. The update will expand the game with a wealth of new content, including new locations and the threats that await there, as well as hideout expansion features and the ability to customize weapon behavior.
Game*Spark is currently featuring articles with detailed coverage of the latest information on “Frozen Path,” so be sure to check them out alongside the PvE mode test starting October 13.
"ARC Raiders" is now available on PC (Steam/ Epic Games Store /Microsoft Store),PS5, andXBOX Series X|S. A limited-time PvE matchmaking test is scheduled to run from October 13 to 20. Please check the news section on the official website for further details.
