The race to create the next exceptional extraction shooter is heating up, with big names and new studios vying for supremacy. Among these, Embark Studios is making waves with its intriguing title, Arc Raiders. This third-person PvPvE shooter combines elements reminiscent of Escape From Tarkov, the accessibility of titles like Gears of War, and a distinct architectural flair stemming from its Swedish roots.
A year ago, Bungie’s Marathon was seen as the front-runner in the world of high-budget extraction shooters. However, following an impressive tech test for Arc Raiders in May, the balance has shifted. This tech test garnered significant attention for its enjoyable gameplay, overshadowing the Marathon alpha being conducted concurrently. It appears we have a fierce extraction-off in progress.
What We Know About Arc Raiders’ Release Date
As of now, Arc Raiders does not have a definitive release date, but Embark has indicated that it will be launching sometime in 2025. Excitingly, recent updates suggest that an announcement regarding the release may be on the horizon. Fans discovered a countdown timer embedded within the Arc Raiders tech test files, set to expire on June 6—the same day as the Summer Game Fest livestream. This has led to speculation that we might witness a surprise reveal akin to the surprise release of Embark’s previous title, The Finals.
Visual and Gameplay Insights
The latest trailer for Arc Raiders was unveiled in conjunction with the recent Tech Test 2 and is more of a mood piece rather than a straightforward gameplay showcase. Viewers are given tantalizing glimpses of the formidable threats posed by the Arc robots, including a massive spider-like creature armed with a devastating laser reminiscent of scenes from War of the Worlds. If you’re eager to see how the game plays, a plethora of Tech Test gameplay footage is available on platforms like YouTube.
Understanding Arc Raiders’ Extraction Gameplay
For those unfamiliar with the term “extraction shooter,” here’s a brief overview of what you can expect from Arc Raiders. Players will equip themselves with weapons and gadgets sourced from their personal loot stash before diving into expansive maps filled with fellow raiders and hostile robots (hence the PvPvE classification). The primary goal is multifaceted—while you might embark on quests from a trader to locate specific items or eliminate a certain number of robots, you also have the freedom to set your own objectives, such as hunting for rare loot or pursuing other players.
Each match lasts approximately 30 minutes, during which players can extract at any time using designated elevators or hatches. However, players must tread carefully—if they die in the field, all of their gear and loot will be permanently lost. Progression is achieved through the completion of trader quests, but unique to Arc Raiders is the added XP gain simply for playing. Players can upgrade their character’s skills through a persistent skill tree, enhancing aspects like stamina, allowing for longer sprints and quicker climbs.
The Setting of Arc Raiders
Setting often takes a back seat in competitive shooters, yet the premise of Arc Raiders creates a compelling narrative. Players are plunged into a post-apocalyptic landscape following an invasion by a faction of ruthless robots, forcing humanity to take refuge underground. You take on the role of a raider, navigating the last human city, Speranza, and venturing to the surface in search of food, supplies, and rare weapons.
Embark Studios has done an impressive job of illustrating the perpetual threat posed by the ARC robots. These mechanical adversaries are omnipresent in matches, with flying drones patrolling, flamethrower bots lurk in the shadows, and sniper bots occupy high vantage points. Engaging multiple robots simultaneously can be perilous. Should you choose to confront them, you run the risk of depleting valuable healing items, emphasizing a stealthy approach rather than open combat.
A Shift Towards PvP
When Arc Raiders was first unveiled during the 2021 Game Awards, it was positioned as a pure PvE co-op experience. However, in 2023, Embark made the bold decision to pivot towards a more competitive PvP environment. While some may mourn the loss of the initial co-op vision, this shift could foster a dynamic and engaging experience—one that keeps players on their toes in a world filled with danger.
Scrappy the Rooster: A Unique Companion
Amidst the chaos, players will meet a quirky companion: Scrappy the Rooster. This feathered friend resides in Speranza and diligently gathers raw materials while players are out raiding. This mechanic ensures that you have a steady supply of basic materials to gear up for your next match. It’s a small yet charming touch that adds depth to the game world, and remembering to appreciate Scrappy before venturing out is a nice nod to the sense of community that Embark aims to build.
Conclusion
In summary, Arc Raiders stands as a promising contender in the rapidly evolving extraction shooter niche. With its intriguing blend of PvPvE gameplay, a captivating setting, and the potential for rich storytelling, it’s clear that Embark Studios is dedicated to delivering an engaging experience. As we await more news, including the prospective release date that might be revealed during the Summer Game Fest, excitement continues to build around this innovative title. Keep an eye on Arc Raiders—this could be the game to redefine extraction shooters in the coming years.
