Arc Raiders, the multiplayer extraction adventure game from Embark Studios, has ignited a passionate debate among players about its emphasis on PvP elements. The studio’s leadership has made it clear that while player encounters are part of the experience, the game’s heart lies elsewhere.
In Arc Raiders, players navigate a world ravaged by machines, facing the unpredictable decisions of fellow survivors. Though the game allows solo play or teamwork in groups of three, the presence of other players often introduces unexpected conflict. This dynamic has spurred discussions within the community, especially after a retired pro gamer gained attention for aggressively engaging casual players.
Prioritizing Player Choice and Environment
Recently, Embark Studios confirmed the implementation of an ‘aggression-based matchmaking’ system. This feature ensures players focused on PvP are paired with similarly minded opponents, while those who prefer PvE can enjoy a more cooperative experience. However, Embark Studios has decided against introducing PvP leaderboards, emphasizing that these elements are not the core of Arc Raiders.
CEO Patrick Söderlund has articulated the studio’s stance on fostering specific types of gameplay. In a conversation with Games Beat, he shared insights into the development process, revealing that adding other players was a deliberate choice to enhance the game’s tension and unpredictability.
The Role of Tension and Player Interaction
Söderlund detailed how Arc Raiders initially functioned without player interactions, relying solely on environmental challenges. The inclusion of other players, signaled through subtle audio cues and visual markers like raider flares, brought a new layer of complexity to gameplay. This design choice amplifies the tension, as players remain unsure of their surroundings and must decide whether to engage with potential threats or opportunities.
While the game currently lacks private servers, Söderlund mentioned they are “absolutely something we could consider,” hinting at potential future developments for those seeking a PvP-centric experience. For now, Arc Raiders remains a game where PvE takes precedence, with PvP serving as an additional layer of intrigue.