Embark says 37% of ARC Raiders players prefer friendly co-op, a group that has grown consistently since launch. Its figures help explain why the studio is testing a dedicated PvE option.
In brief:
- Friendly co-op players account for 37%, mixed players 27%, and pure PvP players 34%.
- 51% of surveyed players expressed interest in dedicated PvE.
- A PvE matchmaking test runs October 13–20, 2026.
ARC Raiders Players Want Fewer Hostile Encounters
According to Embark’s September 24 announcement, over 70% of friendly players and 40% of PvP players want fewer hostile encounters. The studio also reports friendly players avoiding PvP and complaints about ratting and camping.
The PvP group has remained stable since launch. These categories describe preferred playstyles, so “friendly” shouldn’t be read as a guarantee about every encounter.
The new PVE test disables player-to-player damage and lowers loot value. Players can switch between PvE and regular PvPvE matchmaking.
Embark will remove the toggle afterward and review feedback. A permanent PvE mode remains undecided.
