One of the most anticipated titles of the upcoming gaming season is ARC Raiders, a third-person PvPvE extraction shooter developed by Embark Studios. This team has already made waves with their 2023 release, The Finals, a free-to-play FPS that captivated players with its dynamic gameplay and fully destructible environments.
Open Beta and Launch Details
Over the past year, ARC Raiders has undergone a series of closed playtests, allowing the community to engage with its mechanics and build excitement for its release. This momentum is set to reach new heights with an open beta event, dubbed the “Server Slam,” scheduled for mid-October. The full launch of the game is slated for October 30, making it available on Xbox Series X|S, Steam, Epic Games on Windows, and PS5.
Interestingly, ARC Raiders will also be accessible through the Xbox app on Windows, commonly referred to as Xbox on PC. This inclusion opens up a range of possibilities for players, particularly through the Xbox Play Anywhere feature. This unique offering allows gamers to own the title on both Xbox and the Xbox app on PC, provided they use the same Microsoft account.
Benefits of Cross-Progression
One of the standout advantages of Xbox Play Anywhere is its cross-progression capability. This means that any progress made on Xbox seamlessly transfers to PC and vice versa. In the context of extraction shooters, where the gear players can take into matches is heavily influenced by their previous extractions, this feature proves to be invaluable.
“Xbox Play Anywhere also encompasses cross-progression, which means that any progress you make on Xbox carries over to PC, and vice-versa. For extraction shooters like these where the gear you’re able to take into the field is highly dependent on what you extracted with in previous matches, that’s hugely beneficial.”
The availability of ARC Raiders on the Xbox PC app positions it favorably for potential inclusion in Xbox Game Pass. Microsoft’s subscription service operates exclusively through the Xbox app, and should the game be added, it would allow Game Pass users on both console and PC to enjoy it as part of their subscription.
While there is currently no confirmation regarding ARC Raiders joining Game Pass, the possibility remains open. It is not uncommon for multiplayer titles to be added to the service months or even years post-launch to enhance player engagement.
Visual Appeal and Gameplay Experience
ARC Raiders is already generating buzz as a formidable contender in the extraction shooter genre, drawing comparisons to titles such as Escape From Tarkov. Players have expressed enthusiasm for its vibrant sci-fi visuals and its immersive post-apocalyptic setting, teeming with enigmatic robotic foes. The game has the potential to outshine other upcoming titles, including Bungie’s Marathon, which faced stiff competition during its beta phase earlier this year.
The upcoming Server Slam playtest offers a golden opportunity for players to experience the game ahead of its official release without any financial commitment. However, for those eager to secure their copy, preorders are available at a price point of across all platforms, including Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and PS5. Preordering also comes with exclusive bonuses, such as a special backpack and a whimsical rubber ducky cosmetic. For enthusiasts seeking additional perks, a Deluxe Edition priced at includes several bonus unlocks.
