ARC Raiders tests PvE matchmaking, with lower loot value

ARC Raiders normally combines fights against ARC machines with rival human players. Embark has announced a temporary matchmaking toggle that lets players choose PvE servers alongside the standard PvPvE experience, from 13 October 2026 at 09:00 UTC until 20 October at 09:00 UTC. This is a test, with no confirmed permanent availability.

In the PvE option, damage between players is disabled. Stun and fire throwables do not work on other players either. Barricades, ziplines and other physical items are unaffected. You still face ARC machines; PvE does not mean removing the game’s machine enemies.

The trade-off is lower overall loot value. Embark does not provide a percentage in this notice. Matchmaking will also put less priority on squad size, so groups of different sizes may encounter one another more often.

Night Raid, Locked Gate, Hidden Bunker, Frigate and Redirection have no PvE option during this test. Embark also warns that queue times could be affected in quieter regions, and downed players may attract ARC enemies again after eight seconds.

Standard PvPvE matchmaking continues. The choice offers a way to compare less hostile player encounters with the usual higher-risk experience and give Embark feedback through its planned post-test survey. We have verified the developer’s announcement, not independently tested live matchmaking. This test is separate from the Steam free-play weekend, which ended on 12 October.