Arc Raiders emerges as a surprisingly enjoyable extraction shooter, a sentiment I didn’t anticipate expressing, especially given my past frustrations with titles like Escape from Tarkov. Following a press preview and a beta weekend, I find myself increasingly convinced that Embark Studios has crafted a compelling third-person PvEvP experience.
The concept behind Arc Raiders is straightforward: in a world ravaged by rogue robots and AI, humanity has retreated underground, with players taking on the role of raiders who venture to the surface to scavenge for resources. These resources are essential for trading, crafting gear, and upgrading bases.
On the surface, players face dual threats: the relentless Arc robots and rival raiders eager to pilfer your hard-earned loot. The challenge lies in navigating these dangers while gathering valuable items and making a timely extraction before the clock runs out.
Escaping Tarkov
As an extraction shooter, Arc Raiders inevitably draws comparisons to the immensely popular Escape from Tarkov, a game that has often left me feeling overwhelmed. Approaching the Arc Raiders beta, I was apprehensive, expecting a similar experience of stress and confusion. My initial game was fraught with tension; I found myself constantly scanning for threats, anticipating the worst as I braced for an encounter with a hostile player. However, to my surprise, my fears were largely unfounded.
While player-versus-player (PvP) interactions are a significant aspect of Arc Raiders, especially during extraction point waits, they do not dominate the gameplay. Players can choose to focus on PvE elements, engaging with the environment and the various Arc robots without necessarily encountering other players. Often, the only indication of nearby players is the distant sound of gunfire.
This design choice fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, catering to those who may not have the time or inclination to master complex maps or strategies. Unlike Tarkov, which rewards deep investment in its mechanics, Arc Raiders offers a more casual experience, equipping players with basic gear and encouraging exploration and fun. Players even receive bonuses from their companion pet, Scrappy, and skill tree upgrades upon failing to extract, adding a layer of forgiveness to the gameplay.
PvE threats save the action in Arc Raiders from becoming monotonous.
For those inclined towards PvP, the option remains, but the game subtly nudges players towards cooperative objectives, such as collecting items or defeating Arc robots, rather than hunting down other players. This distinction sets Arc Raiders apart from Tarkov, creating a different vibe and execution that may not resonate with seasoned extraction shooter enthusiasts seeking high-stakes challenges.
At the heart of Arc Raiders are the formidable Arc robots, which present a variety of threats. Some are massive and capable of inflicting devastating damage, while others are smaller but equally dangerous. My squad once teamed up with another group to take down a Queen Arc, a task that required coordination and strategy. The diverse range of Arc enemies ensures that players must remain vigilant, as unexpected encounters can quickly turn the tide of a mission.
Going topside
My first experience with Arc Raiders took place on the expansive Dam Battlegrounds map, where the juxtaposition of lush green hills and derelict structures created an unexpectedly beautiful post-apocalyptic landscape. The map’s design strikes a balance between vastness and intimacy, ensuring that threats always feel imminent.
As my team scavenged for resources, the tension heightened with the sounds of distant gunfire, hinting at potential encounters with rival squads or massive Arc robots. This atmosphere, while not unique to Arc Raiders, is enhanced by the game’s forgiving mechanics, which allow for a more relaxed yet engaging experience.
The game’s art direction further enriches the experience, blending retro-futuristic aesthetics with vibrant colors and whimsical gear. From quirky weapons to customizable gear, including hats for Scrappy, the visual design adds a layer of charm that complements the gameplay.
Suit up
Players can craft a variety of gear that fits the game’s post-apocalyptic theme, from sound grenades to cloaking devices. For those wary of losing their hard-earned equipment, a simple loadout of a gun, ammo, and a shield suffices for most encounters with the smaller Arc threats.
During my playtest, I had the opportunity to experiment with various weapons, discovering favorites like the Hullcracker and the Bobcat, which catered to my preference for long-range engagements. The dynamic between different weapons and crafting options adds depth to the gameplay, promising further exploration as I delve into Arc Raiders’ progression systems.
Overall, my experience with Arc Raiders has exceeded expectations, showcasing a more casual and enjoyable approach to the extraction shooter genre. The challenge lies in finding the right balance between fun and difficulty, and it will be intriguing to see how the game evolves as its player base grows.
