ARC Raiders has taken the gaming world by storm as it launches into 2026, capturing the hearts of players everywhere. Known for its intense gameplay and captivating graphics, this live service game has secured its spot as the #1 trending title of the year. Recent reports highlight its dominance during the Holiday week, with ARC Raiders outpacing both the Steam Deck and Battlefield 6 as the top-selling premium product on Steam. The game’s engaging dynamics have led to a peak of 428K concurrent users, setting it apart from many competitors.
A Record-Breaking Launch
ARC Raiders has not only captured the attention of gamers but has also set new records for its publisher, Nexon. The game achieved over four million sales within just twelve days, marking it as Nexon’s most successful launch. As it continues to gain traction, it edges closer to the ten million mark across various platforms. In 2025, ARC Raiders was Google’s most searched video game, surpassing even the much-anticipated GTA VI. Its achievements were further solidified when it won the Best Multiplayer Game award at The Game Awards 2025.
Embracing Technology Amidst Controversy
Despite its success, ARC Raiders has faced criticism, particularly regarding its use of AI-based text-to-speech technology. This technology became a focal point of contention following a review by Eurogamer, which rated the game 2 out of 5 stars. The debate gained traction when Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney defended Embark Studios, asserting that reviews should steer clear of political bias. Nexon’s CEO Owen Mahoney and Level 5-CEO Akihiro Hino both weighed in, debating AI’s role in modern game development.
Patrick Söderlund, founder of Embark Studios, addressed these concerns in an interview, inviting the public to reconsider their perceptions of AI in games. He emphasized that AI is not intended to replace jobs but to enhance productivity and expedite game updates. Söderlund noted that AI played a crucial role in their previous game, The Finals, allowing for regular updates without financial constraints.
Embark Studios, with its team of approximately 350 developers, showcases a robust commitment to innovation and quality. Despite not matching the size of some industry giants, their impact is undeniable. Söderlund’s insights invite a broader discussion on AI’s potential in gaming, stressing that it serves to complement human creativity rather than replace it.