ARC Raiders will test a PvE-only matchmaking toggle for a week next month, answering long-running outcry from players who wish to steer clear of PvP altogether.
The test will run from Oct. 13 to 20 and will allow players to choose between the standard PvPvE mode, or a PvE experience that’s focused entirely on working together to take down ARC threats, finish quests, and loot up. It seems to be following in the footsteps of another extraction shooter, Marathon, which is also adding a PvE option later this year.
“We originally envisioned a raid-based PvE co-op game with looting mechanics,” Embark explained today. “While the concept showed promise, we ran into significant challenges, and eventually decided to reset the game and build the high-tension PvPvE Extraction adventure that you know today.”
“But when the game launched, we were pleasantly surprised; It wasn’t just extraction shooter fans who came to the Rust Belt, but a wide array of different players finding unique ways to enjoy the world. ARC Raiders became the ‘Extraction (Don’t) Shooter,’ reaching a vibrant and diverse audience. This is something we’re very proud of here at Embark Studios.”
To further explain the decision, Embark said the breakdown of its players is as follows: 37 percent friendly co-op (grown since launch), 34 percent pure PvP players (remained stable since launch), and 27 percent mixed.
“We’re seeing a large and growing group of Raiders who come to the Rust Belt for the co-op and the ARC, not fighting with other Raiders,” the devs said. “That group has become a core part of our community, so it’s important we learn how to support them properly rather than leave them working around the game.”
The PvE test begins a few days after the big Frozen Trail update hits, adding a new map, three new ARC enemy types, new weapons, and more. Will you check it out?
