Embark Begins ARC Raiders PvE Beta Through October 20

Embark Studios has begun a one-week beta test of a player-versus-environment matchmaking option in ARC Raiders, allowing players to explore and fight the game’s machines without being able to damage one another. The test runs from October 13 through October 20, 2026, and the studio says it will use player feedback and in-game data to assess the feature’s future. Players can select the PvE option before matchmaking, without a separate beta download or access key. The mode removes player-versus-player damage, but does not eliminate danger: ARC machines remain hostile, and other players can still be present in a session. The experience also changes the game’s balance to account for the reduced risk of fighting human opponents. Embark’s update lowers the value of loot available in PvE sessions. Several special map conditions, including Night Raid, Locked Gate, Hidden Bunker, Frigate and Redirection, are not available through the new matchmaking option. The rules also retain threats from ARC units; update details say a machine can attack a downed player who continues moving after an eight-second grace period.