ARC Raiders players can now opt out of the usual player-versus-player threats for a week starting October 13, 2026. This PvE toggle test gives cooperative groups a safe space to practice without the risk of being killed by other humans. This approach provides a practical opportunity for groups to refine their tactics before returning to standard PvPvE matches.
Embark Studios tests cooperative PvE matchmaking for one week
Embark Studios is running this experiment as a limited matchmaking toggle rather than a permanent game mode change. The developer explicitly stated that the test does not guarantee a permanent PvE option in the future. Players can choose between the classic PvPvE experience or a pure PvE mode focused on co-op gameplay against the ARC threat.
The PvE matchmaking sessions support Solos, Duos, and Trios, allowing mixed groups to play together. Loot value is lowered in these sessions to compensate for the absence of PvP threat. Developers confirmed that there will be zero player-to-player damage during the test period.
Several high-tension modes remain excluded from this test, including Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate. Embark Studios warned that the toggle will be removed when the test ends and matchmaking will return to normal. The limited trial allows developers to evaluate whether the PvE experience functions effectively without the pressure of human opponents.
When we covered the last ARC Raiders update, several of the same balance and stability themes came up. The current test maintains this focus by adjusting loot and damage rules to evaluate different gameplay loops. The test runs globally from October 13 to October 20, 2026.
Source: MP1ST
