Arc Raiders PvE Explained: Test Status, Matchmaking, Co-op

Updated 5 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Arc Raiders is a free-to-play PvE extraction shooter where you and your squad fight against ARC, a robotic threat, rather than against other players. You choose a loadout, drop into a mission, complete objectives, and extract with loot. The game is currently in a closed beta test phase, with matchmaking that pairs you with up to two other players, and it fully supports both solo and three-player co-op play.

What Is Arc Raiders?

Arc Raiders is developed by Embark Studios, the team behind the FPS game The Finals. It was originally announced as a PvPvE title, but the developers later pivoted to a purely PvE experience. In the game, you play as a Raider, a fighter defending the last human city from waves of ARC robots. The core loop involves entering a mission zone, completing objectives like collecting data or destroying targets, and then extracting safely. The game is set in a sci-fi world with a strong emphasis on teamwork and resource management.

Current Test Status

As of now, Arc Raiders is in a closed beta phase. The developers have run several limited tests, including a technical test in 2024 and a more recent closed beta in 2025. These tests are invite-only, and players can sign up on the official website for a chance to participate. The game is not yet fully released, and there is no official release date announced. The beta tests are used to stress-test servers, gather feedback on gameplay, and refine the matchmaking system. If you are not in the beta, you can still watch streams and videos, but you cannot play until the next test wave or full release.

Matchmaking Explained

Matchmaking in Arc Raiders is squad-based. You can queue up with up to two friends, forming a three-player squad. The game does not have a solo-only matchmaking option in the current beta; you are always matched with other players to fill your squad if you queue alone. The matchmaking system tries to pair you with players of similar skill level, though in the beta this is less refined due to the smaller player pool. You can also play solo if you choose to, but the game is designed around team play, and going solo is significantly harder. The matchmaking process is quick, usually taking under a minute, but during off-peak hours it may take longer.

Co-op Choices: Solo, Duo, or Trio

Arc Raiders offers flexible co-op options. You can play:

Solo: You drop in alone, with no AI teammates. This is the hardest way to play, as you must handle all objectives and enemies by yourself. It is possible, but not recommended for beginners.
Duo: You can play with one friend. The game will not fill your third slot with a random player if you choose to keep your squad private. This is a good balance of teamwork and control.
Trio: The standard squad size. You can play with two friends, or the game will match you with a random third player if you queue with one friend and leave the third slot open. Trio is the intended experience, as many missions are balanced around three players.

You can change your squad privacy settings in the lobby, allowing you to control whether random players join your squad. This is useful if you want to play with a specific group and not have a random player join.

How to Choose Your Co-op Mode

Choosing the right co-op mode depends on your experience and goals. Here are some factors to consider:

Skill level: If you are new, playing in a trio with experienced friends is the best way to learn. Solo is for veterans who want a challenge.
Communication: Duo and trio require good communication. If you are playing with friends, you can coordinate better. With random players, you may need to rely on pings and in-game voice.
Loot sharing: In a trio, loot is shared, but you can split up to cover more ground. In solo, you get everything, but you are also a bigger target.
Difficulty: The game scales difficulty based on squad size. Solo missions have fewer enemies, but you have less firepower. Trio missions have more enemies, but you have more firepower.

Ultimately, the choice is about your playstyle. If you want a relaxed experience, play with friends. If you want a hardcore challenge, go solo.

Common Problems and Solutions

Players in the beta have reported a few common issues:

Matchmaking errors: Sometimes the game fails to find a match. This is often due to server issues. Try restarting the game or waiting a few minutes.
Connection drops: If you get disconnected mid-mission, you may lose your loot. The game has a rejoin feature, but it is not always reliable. Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Teamkill accidents: Friendly fire is not present in the current build, but you can still block each other’s shots. Be mindful of your positioning.
Difficulty spikes: Some missions are harder than others. If you are struggling, try upgrading your gear in the hub before dropping in.

If you encounter a bug, report it through the official feedback channels. The developers are actively working on fixes during the beta.

Comparison with Other Extraction Shooters

Arc Raiders is often compared to games like Escape from Tarkov and Hunt: Showdown, but it is distinctly PvE. Unlike Tarkov, where you fight other players, Arc Raiders is purely cooperative. This makes it more accessible to players who do not enjoy PvP. The closest comparison is to games like Deep Rock Galactic or Warhammer 40K: Darktide, which are cooperative horde shooters with objectives. Arc Raiders adds the extraction mechanic, where you must leave with your loot, which adds tension. The game also has a lighter tone than Tarkov, with more arcade-like gunplay.

Cost and Availability

Arc Raiders is free-to-play. There is no upfront cost to play the game. However, the beta is currently closed, so you cannot play unless you are invited. The full release will be free-to-play, with monetization likely through cosmetic items and a battle pass, similar to The Finals. There is no pay-to-win mechanics announced. You can wishlist the game on Steam or the Epic Games Store to be notified of future tests and the release date.

Safety and Fair Play

As with any online game, it is important to follow fair play rules. Cheating, exploiting glitches, or using third-party software can result in a ban. The developers use anti-cheat software to detect cheaters. Also, be cautious of phishing scams that offer beta keys. Only use official sources to sign up for the beta. Never share your account credentials with anyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arc Raiders fully released?

No, Arc Raiders is not fully released. It is in a closed beta phase, with limited tests. The full release date has not been announced.

Can I play Arc Raiders solo?

Yes, you can play solo, but the game is designed for three-player squads. Solo play is more challenging, but it is possible.

Does Arc Raiders have crossplay?

Crossplay has not been confirmed for the beta. The developers have not announced whether it will be available at launch.

How do I get a beta key?

Beta keys are distributed through the official website and sometimes through streamer giveaways. Sign up on the official site to be considered for future tests.

Is there a battle pass or microtransactions?

The game is free-to-play, and it is expected to have cosmetic microtransactions and a battle pass, similar to The Finals. No pay-to-win items have been announced.

What platforms is Arc Raiders on?

Arc Raiders is planned for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The beta is currently on PC only.

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