ARC Raiders has been released since October 30, 2025. Its October 2026 schedule has two separate events: a free-play window running October 8–12 and a limited PvE matchmaking-toggle test running October 13–20. The old open pre-launch test, called Server Slam, took place October 17–19, 2025.
ARC Raiders event dates at a glance
| Event | Dates | What it offers |
|---|---|---|
| Free-play event | October 8–12, 2026 | Free access to the game during the event. The official site lists Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and GeForce NOW. ARC Raiders official site |
| PvE matchmaking-toggle beta | October 13–20, 2026 | A limited test that lets players choose between the standard PvPvE experience and a co-op-focused PvE experience. Embark’s announcement |
| Server Slam open pre-launch test | October 17–19, 2025 | The historical open test on Xbox Series X|S, held before the game’s release. Xbox Wire announcement |
The free-play event is not the PvE beta: one provides limited-time game access, while the other tests a matchmaking feature. Check the relevant platform store for availability and local event timing. Steam displayed free play through October 12 at 1:00 a.m., but that listing should not be treated as a universal end time for every platform or region. Steam listing
Is ARC Raiders released?
Yes. ARC Raiders launched on October 30, 2025, according to Embark’s launch announcement and Steam’s listing. Embark launch announcement Steam listing The October 2025 Server Slam was the open pre-launch test—not an upcoming beta.
What the October 2026 PvE test changes
During the test, players can switch between classic player-versus-player-versus-environment (PvPvE) matchmaking and a co-op-focused PvE option. PvE sessions have no player-to-player damage and can place solo, duo, and trio players together. PvE matchmaking rating will not affect PvPvE matchmaking rating. Embark’s September 24, 2026 announcement
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- ARC Raiders Deluxe Edition includes the base game and the following content: The Wanderer Set, including the following cosmetic items: “Valente” Outfit" “Pathfinder” Backpack,“Blanket Roll” Backpack Attachment.
- Plus: Character Cosmetic, Finger Gun Rapid Fire Emote, Cowboy Scrappy Body Type and Skin, 2 400 Raider Tokens.
What is excluded or adjusted
- Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate are excluded from the PvE test.
- Loot value is reduced in PvE to reflect the lower-risk environment.
- Embark says it will monitor effects on the in-game economy, matchmaking, and queue times.
The test is limited to October 13–20, 2026. Embark says the toggle will be removed when the test ends and matchmaking will return to normal. It is an experiment, not confirmation of a permanent PvE mode: Executive Producer Aleks said, “This test is not a promise that there will be a PvE mode in the future, but take this as an indication that we are seriously considering it.” Embark’s announcement
Why Embark is testing a PvE option
Embark’s September 24, 2026 announcement says its view of the overall player population found 37% friendly co-op players, 27% mixed players, and 34% pure PvP players. It also says 51% of the surveyed player base expressed interest in a dedicated PvE option. The announcement does not state the survey’s sample size or methodology, so these are Embark’s reported figures, not independently verified polling. Embark’s announcement
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where to play
The official site lists Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and GeForce NOW. It describes cross-platform social play across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Event access and exact timing may differ by platform, so use the applicable store or service listing for current details. ARC Raiders official site
Quick Recap
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Rank #4
- Use cunning strategy and tactics to tame, train, ride and breed the 100+ dinosaurs and other primeval creatures roaming the dynamic, persistent ecosystems across land, sea, air, and even underground Build your character's strengths and gain items, skills, and pet creatures using in-depth role-playing systems
- Start a tribe with hundreds of other players to survive and dominate competing tribes...and ultimately discover ARK's true purpose
- Build a fire or shelter, then craft customizable clothing & armors to help protect against damage and extreme temperatures on your way to unlocking advanced technologies and equipment
- Chop down trees and mine metal and other precious resources to build massive multi-leveled structures composed of complex snap-linked parts
Rank #3
- Capture and Tame Dinosaurs: Discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures on the island, finding ways to tame them into useful additions for your tribe's dyno herd
- Survive Above All: Hunger, thirst, basic safety, and protecting yourself from the weather are all part of the game
- Harvest, Hunt and Build: Cut down trees and turn them into a basic home, which you can quickly expand into a Jurassic estate. Hunt for meat, scavenge for plants (or start your own garden!)
- Customize Everything: An extensive crafting system invites you to mix and match materials scavenged from the island, while also modifying the colors, textures, shapes, and styles
- Explore the Island: Solve the mystery of The ARK as you explore this massive island, discovering Explorer's Notebooks (filled with clues!) throughout
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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