Arc Raiders, initially announced as a free-to-play cooperative shooter, has undergone a significant transformation. This shift is not uncommon in the gaming industry, with notable examples like Fortnite’s transition from Save the World to battle royale mode. However, fans anticipating Arc Raiders should be aware that the game has evolved into a premium-priced PvPvE extraction shooter.
At Gamescom Opening Night Live, Embark revealed the updated version of Arc Raiders, showcasing a gameplay experience centered around tense extraction missions. While the core world remains unchanged – set on a desolate Earth in the distant future – the gameplay loop has been redefined. Players now venture into the wastelands as Raiders to gather resources and face AI-controlled enemies and rival players in intense encounters.
Staying True to the World
Despite the gameplay shift, Embark has retained the intriguing world of Arc Raiders. The futuristic Earth backdrop, filled with vibrant sci-fi visuals, sets the stage for challenging extraction missions. The game’s setting remains gritty and grounded, offering a unique backdrop for intense PvPvE action.
The newly introduced gameplay loop, reminiscent of titles like Escape from Tarkov, adds layers of strategy and risk-reward mechanics. Players must navigate the wasteland, complete quests, and fend off threats from both AI enemies and rival players. The stakes are high, with the potential to lose collected loot upon death, emphasizing the importance of careful decision-making and teamwork.
We feel pretty strongly that we kept the good parts.
Embark’s Executive Producer, Aleksander Grøndal, emphasized the importance of preserving the core components of Arc Raiders while introducing new elements like PvP to enhance the overall gameplay experience. The decision to pivot towards an extraction shooter format was driven by a desire to deliver a more engaging and thrilling experience for players.
Embracing Live Service
In a strategic shift, Arc Raiders will be released as a premium live service title, priced at $40. This decision aims to prioritize player engagement and content quality over traditional free-to-play models. With a focus on long-term sustainability and evolving gameplay experiences, Embark is confident that this new approach will resonate with players.
Despite the significant changes, the core essence of Arc Raiders remains intact, promising an engaging and thrilling gameplay experience. With a launch planned for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S in 2025, players can look forward to a fresh take on the extraction shooter genre. A public tech test on Steam from October 24 to 27 will offer a glimpse into the evolved world of Arc Raiders.
