Embark Studios has announced a PvE matchmaking test for its extraction shooter, Arc Raiders, set to run from October 13th to October 20th. This test will allow players to opt into a version of the game without player-versus-player combat, an initiative born from the observation that a significant portion of the playerbase exhibits cooperative behavior, often prioritizing teamwork over engaging other players.
Executive producer Aleksander Grøndal stated in a blog post that the game's origins were as a co-op PvE shooter, but it evolved into its current extraction shooter format. However, data from player activity indicates a divergence from the typical extraction shooter meta. Approximately 37 percent of players are described as friendly co-op participants, a figure that has reportedly grown since the game's launch. In contrast, PvP-focused players constitute about 34 percent, with the remaining players falling into a mixed category. This trend has led the studio to nickname the game the "Extraction (Don’t) Shooter".
The PvE test will support solo, duo, and trio queues. Certain map conditions, such as night raids and hidden bunkers designed with PvP in mind, will be excluded from this mode. Additionally, the value of loot obtainable in the PvE matchmaking will be adjusted to reflect the reduced risk compared to the standard PvP experience. Embark Studios will monitor the player economy and matchmaking times during the test, acknowledging potential risks associated with players extracting risk-free loot.
Grøndal emphasized that the test does not guarantee the permanent implementation of a PvE mode but serves as an indicator of serious consideration by the development team. Arc Raiders saw considerable popularity at launch and has maintained a strong player base. The game previously gained attention for its unusually friendly community, a characteristic that sets it apart from many other extraction shooters.
While this move coincides with broader industry discussions about player preference shifts away from hardcore PvP extraction titles, Embark's decision appears to be a direct response to the established community's playstyle within Arc Raiders, rather than a broad attempt to recapture lost players. The studio is observing how this community-driven behavior might influence the game's future, including potential updates that could cater to both PvP and PvE player preferences.