Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Arc Raiders PvE Test: Embark Studios Responds to Community Demand
Embark Studios is introducing a limited-time PvE-only mode for Arc Raiders to better accommodate diverse player preferences. Discover how this matchmaking toggle will function during the October testing phase.
In a major shift for the upcoming title, Embark Studios has announced an Arc Raiders PvE test, allowing players to toggle off player-vs-player combat to focus exclusively on the game’s core mechanical threats. Responding to community feedback, the developers are opening a window from October 13-20, 2026, to gather data on how a strictly cooperative experience fits within their vision.
How the Arc Raiders PvE Test Works
The developers are implementing this feature as a simple matchmaking toggle. During the test period, players can switch between the classic PvPvE experience and a pure PvE mode. The primary goal is to foster a more relaxed environment where the focus remains on overcoming ARC threats and engaging in co-op social dynamics without the fear of being attacked by other players.
- No Friendly Fire: The PvE mode features zero player-to-player damage.
- Team Composition: The experience supports Solos, Duos, and Trios within the same session.
- Seamless Integration: The system is designed to allow players to switch between modes easily depending on their desired intensity level.
Limitations and Scope of the Test
While this is an exciting development, Embark Studios is clear that the Arc Raiders PvE test is a temporary experiment rather than a permanent feature launch. To maintain the intended high-tension gameplay of certain areas, several zones will remain exclusively in the PvPvE pool.
The following content will be excluded from the PvE matchmaking test:
- Night Raids
- Hidden Bunkers
- Locked Gates
- Frigates
Furthermore, because the risk factor is significantly lower in PvE, loot values will be adjusted to be less lucrative than those found in the high-stakes PvPvE sessions. The developers have also confirmed that your PvPvE matchmaking rating (MMR) will remain completely unaffected while playing in these cooperative sessions.
Why Embark is Changing Course
We have to respect that some players want to enjoy the game in their own way, and we can’t ignore what the data is telling us.
Embark Studios has long maintained that PvP is a fundamental pillar of the Arc Raiders experience. However, this test demonstrates a willingness to adapt to player needs. By analyzing how the community engages with this toggle, the team hopes to better understand whether a permanent PvE path is viable for the game’s long-term health. For now, players should treat this as a unique opportunity to provide the data that will ultimately influence the future direction of the project.
Source: Read Original Article
