Arc Raiders Solo vs Squad: Which Play Style Fits?

Updated 8 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Arc Raiders is a free-to-play PvPvE extraction shooter where you drop onto a map, fight AI and other players, and try to extract with loot. The core question for new players is whether to play solo or with a squad. The answer depends on your risk tolerance, communication style, and how much time you can commit to learning the game’s systems. This guide breaks down the trade-offs so you can decide which mode is right for you.

Background: What Arc Raiders Is

Developed by Embark Studios, Arc Raiders was originally announced as a cooperative PvE game but was later reworked into a PvPvE extraction shooter. In this genre, you enter a map with limited gear, collect valuable items, and try to escape before a timer expires or you get killed. Other players are also on the map, and they can either help you or shoot you on sight. The game is free-to-play, with optional cosmetic purchases, and is available on PC and consoles.

The extraction shooter genre has grown popular because it creates high-stakes moments that are different from typical battle royales. You don’t just fight to be the last one standing; you fight to get out with your loot. This means every decision—where to go, when to engage, when to hide—has a direct impact on your survival and your wallet.

How Solo and Squad Play Differ

In Arc Raiders, you can queue up alone, with a friend, or with a full squad of three players. The matchmaking system will place you in a lobby with other players of similar group size, but you can also encounter squads if you play solo. Here are the key differences:

Teamwork: Squads can coordinate pushes, cover each other, and revive downed teammates. Solo players must rely on their own skills and often avoid direct confrontation.
Loot Distribution: In a squad, loot is shared, but you have to split the spoils. Solo players keep everything they find, but they also have to carry it all themselves.
Risk vs. Reward: Squads can tackle harder areas and take on tougher AI enemies, but they also attract more attention. Solo players can sneak through quieter zones and extract with less competition.
Pacing: Squad play is often faster because you can push objectives and clear areas quickly. Solo play is slower and more methodical, with more time spent observing and waiting.

Pros and Cons of Solo Play

Playing solo in Arc Raiders is a test of self-reliance. You have no one to watch your back, but you also have no one to argue with about who gets the rare weapon. Here are the main advantages and disadvantages:

Pros of Solo

You keep 100% of the loot you extract with.
You can move at your own pace and choose your engagements.
You don’t have to coordinate schedules with friends.
You can learn the maps and mechanics without distractions.

Cons of Solo

If you get downed, no one can revive you—you’re out of the match.
You are an easier target for squads that spot you.
You have to carry all your loot yourself, which limits how much you can take.
You may miss out on the social aspect and shared victories.

For players who are patient and enjoy stealth, solo play can be very rewarding. You can pick off isolated enemies, loot abandoned areas, and extract with valuable items that squads might overlook.

Pros and Cons of Squad Play

Squad play is the traditional way to experience extraction shooters. You have backup, but you also have to share the spoils. Here’s what to expect:

Pros of Squad

You have teammates to revive you and cover your flanks.
You can take on harder AI enemies and other squads with better odds.
You can split up to cover more ground and then regroup.
You can share gear and help each other complete missions.

Cons of Squad

Loot is divided, so each player gets less per run.
You need to communicate effectively or you’ll make mistakes.
You might feel pressure to play a certain role or follow the group’s plan.
If your teammates are new or uncoordinated, you can be at a disadvantage.

Squad play is ideal if you have friends who play the game or if you enjoy the social aspect of gaming. It also allows you to attempt higher-risk strategies, like camping near extraction points or pushing into high-tier loot zones.

How to Choose: Solo vs. Squad

There is no right answer for everyone. The best way to decide is to try both and see which fits your playstyle. Here are some factors to consider:

Your skill level: If you’re new to extraction shooters, squad play can be safer because you have teammates to learn from. Solo is more punishing but can teach you faster.
Your time: Solo runs are often shorter because you can extract early. Squad runs can last longer, especially if you’re coordinating with others.
Your communication style: If you prefer to play quietly and make your own decisions, solo is better. If you like sharing information and planning, squad is better.
Your goal: If you want to maximize loot per hour, solo might be better because you don’t share. If you want to complete difficult missions, squad is essential.

A common misconception is that solo play is only for experts. In reality, many players start solo to learn the maps and then move to squads once they feel confident. The game’s matchmaking also helps by placing you with players of similar group size, so you won’t constantly be outnumbered.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

Both solo and squad play come with their own set of challenges. Here are some common issues and tips to avoid them:

Getting third-partied: This happens when another squad attacks you while you’re fighting someone else. To avoid it, always keep an eye on your surroundings and don’t stay in one place too long.
Over-encumbered: You can only carry so much loot. In solo, this is a bigger problem because you have no one to help. Prioritize high-value items and leave the rest.
Communication breakdowns: In squads, miscommunication can lead to death. Use a microphone or at least the ping system to mark enemies and objectives.
Losing gear: If you die, you lose everything you brought in. This is more painful in solo because you have no one to retrieve your gear. Consider using cheaper loadouts when playing solo.

Alternatives and Variations

If you’re not sure about solo or squad, there are other ways to play Arc Raiders. You can queue with random players, which is a middle ground between solo and a full squad. You can also play with a duo, which is a smaller squad that can be more flexible. Some players also create custom games to practice specific strategies without the pressure of losing gear.

Another alternative is to play the game’s PvE modes if they are available. These modes let you fight AI enemies without the threat of other players, which is a good way to learn the game’s mechanics before jumping into PvPvE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you play Arc Raiders solo only?

Yes, you can queue up alone, but the game will still put you in matches with other players. You won’t have any teammates, but you can still extract with loot. The game does not have a dedicated solo-only mode, so you may encounter squads.

Is squad play more profitable in Arc Raiders?

Not necessarily. While squads can tackle harder areas and get better loot, they also have to split it. Solo players can be more profitable if they are efficient at extracting with high-value items. It depends on your skill and strategy.

What is the best class for solo play?

There is no single best class, but classes with self-healing or stealth abilities are often favored for solo play. For example, a class that can go invisible or heal itself can help you survive longer without teammates. Check the current class abilities in the game to see what fits your style.

Do you lose your gear when you die in Arc Raiders?

Yes, if you die in a raid, you lose the gear you brought in and any loot you collected. This is the core risk of extraction shooters. To mitigate this, you can use lower-tier gear for solo runs and save your best gear for squad play.

Can you play Arc Raiders with a cross-platform squad?

Yes, Arc Raiders supports cross-platform play, so you can squad up with friends on different platforms. This is great for playing with people who have different consoles or PCs. Just make sure you have the same game version and are friends on the platform’s social system.

Is Arc Raiders pay-to-win?

No, Arc Raiders is free-to-play, and the only purchases are cosmetic items that don’t affect gameplay. You can earn everything you need through playing the game. This means solo and squad play are balanced in terms of progression.

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