Arc Raiders is finally testing a PvE-only mode: 'We can’t ignore what the data is telling us'
This is no guarantee of a permanent PvE mode, but it's something.
Embark, the developers behind Arc Raiders, have announced plans to test a purely PvE mode for the game. The test will run from October 13-20, 2026. During this period, players will be able to switch between the classic PvPvE experience and a PvE experience, where no player-to-player damage occurs. Both Solos, Duos, and Trios sessions will be supported in the PvE mode.
Certain features, such as Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate, will not be included in the PvE test as they are designed to create higher tension and rely on player encounters. Embark's decision to introduce a PvE mode comes after analyzing player data, which shows that over 70% of Friendly players and even 40% of PvP players desire fewer hostile encounters and a dedicated PvE option.
The PvE test will not affect players' PvPvE matchmaking ratings, and Embark emphasizes that this is a limited experiment. The developers believe that PvP is integral to the Arc Raiders experience but acknowledge the importance of accommodating players with different needs.
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