Embark Studios has clarified that Arc Raiders is not focused on PvP gameplay, emphasizing that the primary aim is to survive against the environment and AI threats rather than engaging in player-versus-player combat. CEO Patrick Söderlund stated that although players can engage in PvP interactions, the game is designed around the ethos of cooperating and surviving rather than killing other players. The matchmaking system takes into account players' preferences for PvE or PvP, aiming to create a balanced experience. Embark aims to enhance the tension of encounters with other players rather than encourage competitive behavior, and features such as private servers may be explored in the future. This stance has led to discussions among the game's community about player etiquette and interaction.

What is the main focus of gameplay in Arc Raiders?

The main focus of gameplay in Arc Raiders is on cooperative survival against environmental challenges and AI threats, rather than engaging in competitive PvP interactions. The developers prioritize fostering a cooperative experience among players.

Arc Raiders is a multiplayer extraction adventure that immerses players in a post-apocalyptic world teeming with dangers like machines and unpredictable fellow survivors. This unique design philosophy positions it differently from traditional battle royale games, focusing on collaboration and strategy to navigate the chaotic environment and make critical decisions that affect the survival of players. The game aims to create tension through audio cues and subtle interactions, making each encounter significant without elevating direct conflict as the core gameplay element.