The introduction of the PvE Matchmaking test in ARC Raiders has raised an important question among players. Is this the beginning of the end of PvP? Or is it Embark Studios trying to find a better balance between competitive and cooperative gameplay? The week-long test is allowing players to choose between the traditional PvPvE experience and a new mode where Raiders could not damage one another. With reduced loot rewards and several other gameplay adjustments, the beta test is designed to explore how a PvE option might fit into the game.
ARC Raiders: Video Game Transformation Or Trying To Find Balance?
ARC Raiders is at a turning point. Embark Studios has decided to explore balance between its original PvPvE extraction shooter experience and a PvE-focused gameplay. Rather than completely transforming the video game, the developers appear to be exploring ways to accommodate different playstyles while preserving the tension. The introduction of a PvE matchmaking test raises an important question about the future direction of ARC Raiders.
ARC Raiders groups players according to their playstyle using a system known as Aggression-Based Matchmacking (ABM). Often called the “Karma” system by the gaming community. Rather than dividing players into just two playstyles, friendly and aggressive, the system uses a spectrum of playstyles. This means lobbies can range from more cooperative to more focused on player-versus-player combat. Your player position can change as your behaviour evolves over time.
However, there are no standard PvE-only lobbies where other Raiders can never attack you. The risk of meeting hostile players remains an essential part of the ARC Raiders experience. Furthermore, game patches and updates do not actually reset your matchmaking profile. Matches may temporarily feel less predictable after an update if player numbers are low. Although this depends on matchmaking conditions and is not guaranteed to happen.
Arc Raiders PVP ABM “Karma” System
The ARC Raiders PVP “Karma” system is a name players use for a feature that tries to match people with others who play in a similar way. Its official name is the playstyle-based matchmaking system. Embark studio explained back in May 2026 how this system works.
ARC Raiders uses playstyle-based matchmaking to influence who players play with.
❗Not to be confused with RaiderRep. A service that gives players a Trust Score based on reported behaviour and positive recommendations.
When creating a lobby, two main factors come into consideration:
- Fairness, such as, matching similar squads (in size) where possible.
- Enjoyment, such as, matching players with similar playstyles.
Players who frequently engage in PvP may be more likely to encounter others with similar tendencies, whilst cooperative players have a greater chance of meeting Raiders who prefer to avoid unnecessary fights. Your behaviour can also influence future lobbies over time. If you change the way you approach other Raiders, your matchmaking experience may gradually change accordingly. This system does not lock you permanently into a particular type of lobby.
❗However, this matchmaking system does not guarantee that every encounter will follow your preferred playstyle
New PvE System, as Stated from the ARC Raiders team
From the 13th to the 20th of October 2026, Embark Studios is testing a PvE matchmaking toggle in ARC Raiders. This will allow players to choose between the standard PvPvE experience and a dedicated PvE mode. The aim was to explore how a less hostile environment would affect gameplay.
In PvE matches, players could not damage one another, and throwable items such as stun and fire grenades could not be used against other players. However, loot rewards were reduced, and matchmaking was less strict about separating squads of different sizes. Certain major map conditions were also excluded from the PvE option. ARC enemies could still pose a threat to downed players. After an eight-second grace period, they could target players again if they detected movement.
This test also allows Embark Studios to assess the impact on standard PvPvE matchmaking, queue times and player experience. After the trial, players are invited to complete a survey and share feedback to help inform future decisions about the PvE option.
The community responds to the PvE Beta test
Community opinions on the ARC Raiders PvE beta test are divided. Whilst some players welcome a more relaxed experience, others worry that a permanent PvE option could undermine the tension and unpredictable encounters that define the original PvPvE gameplay.
One player explained that they missed the spontaneous cooperation, communication and moments when strangers helped each other. They felt PvE had made the game too easy, whilst returning to standard PvPvE matches seemed more aggressive than before.
However, other players believe that a dedicated PvE mode would make ARC Raiders more enjoyable by allowing them to explore without the constant fear of unexpected attacks. One player explained that while PvP can be exciting when everyone expects it, being ambushed by players who target peaceful Raiders often feels unfair and frustrating. These encounters have also discouraged some other users to continue to play. They believe separate PvP and PvE options would allow everyone to enjoy the video game according to their preferred playstyle.
Can Everyone Find Their Place in the Same Game?
Ultimately, the challenge for Embark Studios is deciding how much freedom players should have to choose their preferred experience. The community’s feedback suggests that both playstyles have a place in the game, raising the question of whether they can coexist without compromising the experience either group enjoys. A dedicated PvE mode could make ARC Raiders more accessible, while preserving PvPvE for those who enjoy the risk of hostile encounters.
Perhaps the real question is not whether PvE will mark the end of PvP, but whether ARC Raiders can support both playstyles without losing its identity.
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