ARC Raiders studio is considering what comes after its PvE test

Embark is considering whether to bring a permanent PvE mode to ARC Raiders after a week-long test let players fight the machines without hurting one another. The test has ended and the option has been removed, with no decision yet on its return.

A week without player-versus-player combat

In the regular game, each trip into the field combines threats from machines and other players. During the test, players who enabled the PvE option could tackle the game’s enemies together without worrying about incoming fire from other players on the way to loot and extraction.

It’s good to see the studio consider what players want before making a permanent decision.

Less stress without losing the tension

Executive producer Aleksander Grøndal told MP1st that the test points to an audience that wants to enjoy the game without the stress of fighting other players. Embark’s challenge is to accommodate that audience without undermining the game’s premise.

The studio is considering several directions: a relaxed side mode, a challenge against the machines or a full PvE experience. Each would need a different approach to content and updates. For now, neither the mode’s return nor another test has been announced.