Arc Raiders: Sci-Fi Extraction Shooter - Release Date, Gameplay
From the veteran developers at Embark Studios comes one of the most anticipated new titles in the shooter genre: Arc Raiders. First revealed as a cooperative experience, the game has since evolved into a high-stakes extraction shooter set in a stunning retro-futuristic world. Combining intense player-versus-player combat with formidable AI threats, Arc Raiders is shaping up to be a unique and thrilling adventure.
Here’s everything we know so far about this upcoming free-to-play title.
What is Arc Raiders?
Arc Raiders is a player-versus-player-versus-environment (PvPvE) tactical extraction shooter played from a third-person perspective. Players take on the role of "Raiders," rogue resistance fighters scavenging for resources on a post-apocalyptic Earth. You and your squad will drop into a hostile world, battling not only other player-controlled Raider teams but also the relentless, automated ARC machines that now rule the planet. The goal is to find valuable resources, complete objectives, and extract safely before being eliminated by rival players or the mechanical menace.
The game represents a significant pivot from its original concept. When first announced, Arc Raiders was presented as a purely cooperative (PvE) game where squads would unite to take down giant ARC robots. In 2023, developer Embark Studios announced a major shift in direction, re-focusing the project as a competitive extraction shooter, a genre that has seen immense popularity. This change places a greater emphasis on tension, strategy, and the unpredictable nature of human opponents.
Story and Setting: Welcome to the Wasteland
Arc Raiders is set on the planet Spera, a world ravaged by a silent, robotic invasion from orbit. The invaders, known as ARC, are a cold and unfeeling mechanical army that has forced humanity into hiding in underground colonies. In this desolate but beautiful wasteland, humanity’s last hope lies with the Raiders.
These aren't soldiers; they are scavengers, freedom fighters, and survivalists who venture to the surface to fight back and salvage the tools they need to survive. The world itself blends a gritty, post-apocalyptic aesthetic with a distinct 1980s-inspired retro-futuristic sci-fi vibe. Think cassette tapes, analog technology, and weathered machinery set against lush landscapes and colossal, menacing robots. Early trailers showcased a world where nature has begun to reclaim civilization, with sprawling forests and overgrown ruins serving as the battlefield.
Arc Raiders Gameplay: A PvPvE Extraction Experience
The core gameplay loop of Arc Raiders centers on risk versus reward. Every match will be a high-stakes hunt for resources, where losing a firefight could mean losing all the valuable gear you’ve collected. Based on gameplay reveals and developer insights, here are the key mechanics to expect:
- Extraction Loop: Squads will deploy into large maps with specific objectives. The ultimate goal is to gather loot, from weapons and gear to rare cosmic resources, and make it to an extraction point to secure your findings.
- Tactical Third-Person Combat: The game utilizes a third-person perspective, allowing for greater situational awareness. Combat is designed to be tactical and deliberate, encouraging teams to use cover, coordinate attacks, and utilize unique gadgets to gain an edge.
- Physics and Destruction: Developed by a team with a pedigree in creating dynamic environments (many developers are veterans from the Battlefield series), Arc Raiders will feature significant physics-based destruction. This means environments can be altered and destroyed, creating new tactical opportunities and emergent gameplay scenarios.
- The ARC Threat: While other players are a primary danger, the world is patrolled by ARC machines. These AI enemies range from small, nimble drones to massive, screen-filling behemoths that will require a coordinated team effort to take down. They act as both an obstacle and an opportunity, as defeating them may yield valuable rewards.
- Gadgets and Teamwork: Success will depend heavily on teamwork and clever use of equipment. Expect a variety of tools designed for traversal, defense, and offense. A physics-based grappling hook, for instance, allows for quick repositioning and vertical flanking maneuvers.
The Development Journey of Arc Raiders
Arc Raiders was first announced to the world at The Game Awards in 2021 with a stunning cinematic trailer that immediately captured player interest. Developed by Embark Studios, a Stockholm-based company founded by former EA and DICE executive Patrick Söderlund, the game was initially slated for a 2022 release.
However, the studio later announced a delay to 2023, citing the need to expand the experience and simultaneously develop another project, which was later revealed to be the hit first-person shooter, The Finals. Following the successful launch of The Finals, Embark has continued development on Arc Raiders, running closed alpha tests throughout 2023 and 2024 to gather player feedback on its new PvPvE direction. The team has been focused on refining this new vision before moving toward a broader release.
When is the Arc Raiders Release Date?
Currently, there is no official release date for Arc Raiders. After its initial delay, Embark Studios has been focused on internal testing and refining the core gameplay loop based on feedback from its closed alpha sessions. The developer has not provided a new release window, choosing instead to focus on development until the game meets its high-quality standard. Fans should keep an eye on official announcements from Embark Studios for the latest information.
Platforms and Price
Arc Raiders is confirmed to be a free-to-play title. It is scheduled to launch on PC (via Steam and the Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. There has been no mention of a release on last-generation consoles like the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of game is Arc Raiders?
Arc Raiders is a free-to-play, PvPvE tactical extraction shooter set in a retro-futuristic sci-fi world. Players must fight against other players and AI-controlled robots to secure valuable resources and extract.
Is Arc Raiders free-to-play?
Yes, Embark Studios has confirmed that Arc Raiders will be a free-to-play game at launch.
Who is making Arc Raiders?
The game is being developed by Embark Studios, a Swedish game developer founded by industry veterans, many of whom previously worked on the Battlefield franchise at DICE. They are also the creators of the successful free-to-play shooter, The Finals.
Will Arc Raiders be on PS4 or Xbox One?
No, Arc Raiders is currently only announced for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. There are no plans for a release on previous-generation consoles.