Arc Raiders, originally announced in 2021 as a free-to-play co-op third-person shooter, has undergone significant changes and is now scheduled for release in 2025. Developed by Embark Studios, the game has faced multiple delays, partly due to the rapid progress of Embark’s other project, The Finals, which diverted resources and momentum away from Arc Raiders. Additionally, the game has been re-tooled into a PvPvE extraction shooter, shifting its gameplay focus and overall direction.

Arc Raiders shifts to a premium model

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In a surprising move, Arc Raiders is no longer a free-to-play title. Embark Studios has announced that the game will now be a “$40 premium title.” The decision to shift away from the free-to-play model was driven by the studio’s belief that a premium business model is better suited to the game they are building. According to Embark, this change will allow them to create a more focused, balanced, and engaging action-survival experience for players.

what to expect in Arc Raiders

In Arc Raiders, players take on the role of survivors living in an underground colony, battling against the ARC, deadly machines that dominate the surface. As scavengers, players embark on missions to gather supplies, working with or against other players in a tense, survival-driven environment. The game’s retooling as a PvPvE extraction shooter adds a new layer of strategy and competition, making each mission a high-stakes endeavor.

upcoming beta tests and release plans

Before its official release, Embark Studios plans to run several beta tests for Arc Raiders, beginning with a tech test from October 24th to 27th. Players can sign up for this test via the game’s Steam page. These tests are expected to provide valuable feedback and help fine-tune the game before its full release in 2025.

The future of arc raiders

The shift to a premium model for Arc Raiders reflects Embark Studios’ changing strategy with their experience from The Finals. While the change away from free-to-play might disappoint some, it aligns with the studio’s vision for the game and ensures a more sustainable future for the title. As the release date approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a unique and challenging entry in the action-survival genre.

Arc Raiders is set to make a significant impact when it launches in 2025, offering players a richly detailed world filled with intense combat, strategic gameplay, and the thrill of survival.