Embark Studios has announced that a player-versus-environment (PvE) mode for its extraction shooter, Arc Raiders, will be available for testing between October 13 and October 20. This cooperative-focused mode will be accessible via a new toggle, allowing players to choose between standard PvP matchmaking and the PvE option during the test period.
In the PvE mode, solo players, duos, and trios will share lobbies, as threats from other players are removed. However, certain major map conditions, such as Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate, will remain exclusive to the standard PvP matchmaking. Embark has cautioned that the success of a permanent PvE mode is not guaranteed, stating in a press release that the test is an indication of serious consideration rather than a promise.
The studio has noted that a significant portion of its player base has expressed interest in a PvE-only experience. According to Embark, 37% of Arc Raiders players identify as cooperative-only raiders, actively avoiding PvP encounters. Of this group, 70% have indicated a desire for fewer hostile interactions with other players. Even among PvP players, 40% share a similar sentiment.
This upcoming PvE test follows a period of dwindling player numbers, partly attributed to Embark's shift to bi-yearly updates, which has led to content droughts. The introduction of a PvE mode shortly after the planned Frozen Trail update on October 8 could potentially revitalize the game's player base. The Frozen Trail update itself will introduce new quests, an additional map, expanded weapon customization, and various quality-of-life improvements.