ARC Raiders

ARC Raiders is a multiplayer extraction shooter set in a dystopian future where humanity survives underground while hostile mechanical entities known as ARC dominate the surface.



Developed and published by Embark Studios, the game blends cooperative PvPvE gameplay with high-stakes scavenging, tactical combat, and survival-focused progression.

Players deploy from an underground base into hostile surface zones, either solo or in squads of up to three, to complete missions, gather valuable resources, and extract before time runs out.

Each raid is built around risk versus reward: dying during a mission means losing most of the loot you carry, while successful extractions push long-term progression forward.

Built on Unreal Engine 5, ARC Raiders for PC emphasizes atmospheric world design, heavy mechanical enemies, and emergent encounters with other players.



Matches typically last around 30 minutes, offering a focused but intense gameplay loop that rewards preparation, teamwork, and smart decision-making.

Main Features

Extraction PvPvE
High-risk gameplay combining AI enemies and hostile player squads in shared maps.

Timed Raid Sessions
Each mission lasts roughly 30 minutes, forcing players to balance greed and survival.

Dynamic Loot System
Looted items are lost on death, making every encounter meaningful.

Solo and Squad Play
Playable solo, duo, or in three-player squads with coordinated roles.

Progression and Crafting
Earn experience, unlock new gear, and craft upgrades between raids.

Multiple Maps and Events
Different environments and rotating world events add replay value.

Post-Apocalyptic Sci-Fi World
A grounded futuristic setting dominated by massive ARC machines.

Cross-Platform Support
Playable on PC and consoles with cross-play enabled.

Recommended by the FileHorse review team for this multiplayer extraction adventure set on a lethal future Earth!

User Interface

ARC Raiders features a clean but information-dense user interface focused on functionality.



Inventory management, loadouts, mission selection, and crafting systems are clearly separated, though new players may initially feel overwhelmed by the amount of data presented.

In-game HUD elements provide essential information such as ammo, health, threat indicators, and extraction timers.

During heavy combat situations, the screen can feel busy, but clarity generally remains intact.

Mouse and keyboard controls feel responsive, while controller support is solid but slightly less intuitive in menu navigation.

Installation and Setup

• Purchase ARC Raiders through a supported PC storefront
• Download and install the game client
• Launch the game and log into your account
• Configure graphics, audio, and performance settings
• Set preferred control scheme (keyboard/mouse or controller)
• Complete the introductory tutorial
• Join matchmaking or form a squad

The installation process is straightforward, and performance settings scale well across mid-range and high-end PCs.



How to Play

• Choose solo or squad mode
• Prepare your loadout before deployment
• Deploy from the underground base to the surface
• Explore the map and scavenge resources
• Engage or avoid ARC machines and rival players
• Complete missions or side objectives
• Reach an extraction point before time expires
• Secure loot and progress your character

FAQs

What kind of game is ARC Raiders?
The game is a PvPvE extraction shooter focused on scavenging, survival, and cooperative play.

Can I play ARC Raiders solo?
Yes, the game fully supports solo play, though squad play offers strategic advantages.

Do you lose items when you die?
Yes, most loot carried during a raid is lost upon death.

Are there different maps and missions?
Yes, the game features multiple environments and rotating objectives.

Is ARC Raiders beginner-friendly?
The core mechanics are accessible, but the learning curve can be steep for new players.



Alternatives

• Escape from Tarkov – A hardcore extraction shooter with deeper survival mechanics
• Hunt: Showdown – PvPvE shooter with strong atmosphere and tactical pacing
• The Cycle: Frontier – Extraction-based shooter with lighter progression systems
• Warframe – Fast-paced sci-fi co-op shooter with some extraction elements
• Risk of Rain 2 – Cooperative survival shooter with roguelike progression

Pricing

Standard Edition – Approx. $39.99

Deluxe Edition – Approx. $59.99 with cosmetic and bonus content

Pricing may vary depending on platform and seasonal discounts.

System Requirements

Minimum

• OS: Windows 10 or Windows 11
• CPU: Quad-core processor, 3.0 GHz
• RAM: 16 GB
• GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1060 or AMD RX 580
• Storage: 60 GB available space (SSD recommended)

Recommended

• OS: Windows 10 or Windows 11
• CPU: 6-core processor, 3.5 GHz or higher
• RAM: 16 GB or more
• GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2060 or AMD RX 5600 XT
• Storage: SSD for optimal performance

PROS

• Strong PvPvE extraction gameplay loop
• High tension and meaningful risk-reward system
• Excellent cooperative play mechanics
• Atmospheric world and enemy design
• Solid performance on PC
• Ongoing updates and evolving content
• Cross-platform play support

CONS

• UI can feel overwhelming initially
• Server stability issues reported at times
• Loot loss may frustrate casual players
• Heavy reliance on teamwork
• Limited appeal for purely PvE players
• Occasional balance issues

Conclusion

It delivers a polished and intense extraction shooter experience that rewards tactical thinking, cooperation, and risk management.

Its sci-fi setting, meaningful progression, and tense raid structure make it stand out in the PvPvE genre.

While the learning curve and high-risk mechanics may not suit everyone, players who enjoy strategic survival shooters will find ARC Raiders a compelling and replayable PC title.