Embark Studios is introducing a limited-time test for a PvE-only matchmaking option in its upcoming shooter, Arc Raiders. The test, scheduled to run from October 13 to October 20, 2026, will allow players to switch between the game's traditional PvPvE (player versus player versus environment) experience and a purely PvE mode where player-to-player damage is disabled.
During the PvE sessions, the focus will shift entirely to confronting the in-game ARC threat and engaging in cooperative gameplay. These sessions will support solos, duos, and trios. While the core gameplay loop will remain similar, certain high-tension elements such as Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate encounters will be excluded from the PvE test as they are designed around player unpredictability. Importantly, playing in PvE sessions will not affect a player's PvPvE matchmaking rating.
Embark has acknowledged that while they believe PvP is integral to Arc Raiders, the test is a response to player feedback and data. "We have to respect that some players want to enjoy the game in their own way, and we can’t ignore what the data is telling us," the studio stated in a blog post. The company noted a significant split within its player base: 37% identify as friendly co-op players, a group that has shown consistent growth since launch; 27% are mixed players; and 34% are pure PvP players, a segment that has remained stable. Data further indicates that over 70% of friendly players and 40% of PvP players desire fewer hostile encounters, with 51% of the surveyed player base expressing interest in a dedicated PvE option. The studio also highlighted friction points, such as friendly players attempting to avoid PvP entirely and frustrations with 'ratting' and 'camping' tactics.
While this PvE toggle is presented as a limited test, with the option to be removed after the testing period, its success could influence future development of PvE content for Arc Raiders. The developers emphasized that this experiment is designed to shape the future of the system based on player feedback and collected data.