Embark Studios to test PvE mode in ARC Raiders

Embark Studios has announced a beta test for a PvE-only matchmaking toggle in its extraction shooter, ARC Raiders. The test is scheduled to run from October 13 to October 20.

During this period, players will have the option to select a PvE experience that emphasizes cooperative gameplay. In this mode, player-to-player damage is disabled, allowing squads of solos, duos, or trios to focus entirely on combating ARC threats. To maintain tension in the absence of PvP risks, the studio noted that ARCs will retarget players who are in motion. Additionally, the PvE mode will feature lower overall loot values to compensate for the increased safety.

Certain map conditions, including Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate, will be unavailable during the PvE test. Executive producer Aleksander Grøndal noted that while the game evolved into a PvPvE experience, it was originally envisioned as a raid-based PvE co-op game. The results of this test will help determine if a PvE option becomes a permanent feature.