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What kind of game is ARC Raiders?
ARC Raiders is a multiplayer extraction game from Embark Studios. Each trip takes you from Speranza, an underground community, to the surface of a future Earth threatened by machines called ARC. You search for resources and equipment, then try to reach an extraction point and get back safely. If you fail to extract, you risk losing what you gathered.
The danger comes from both the environment and other players, making each run PvPvE: ARC machines can attack, while rival Raiders may fight you or take loot you leave behind. Back in Speranza, you can trade, pursue quests, and craft, repair, or upgrade equipment. Combat can also make noise that attracts other Raiders, so choosing when to fight is part of managing a run’s risk. PlayStation’s game overview and the Steam listing describe the setting and loop.
Can you play ARC Raiders solo?
Yes. You can enter a run alone, or play in groups of two or three. Solo play does not make this an offline single-player campaign: ARC Raiders is online multiplayer-only, and the possibility of encounters with other Raiders is part of the experience. A headset and microphone may help friends coordinate in a squad, but they are not stated as requirements. PlayStation’s product page describes the online group options.
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![ARC Raiders Deluxe - PC Steam [Online Game Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51I3Aj2PM0L._SL160_.jpg)
- 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 do you do during a run?
Scavenge, assess danger, and extract
Explore topside for useful resources and loot while weighing the risk of staying longer against the chance of getting out with what you found. Machines and other players can disrupt a route or a fight; successful extraction is the goal, not simply reaching the end of a mission.
Face machines ranging from small to formidable
ARC threats include small, stealthy Ticks and larger machines such as the Queen. PlayStation names weapons including the Rattler automatic rifle, Vulcano close-range shotgun, and Equalizer energy weapon. You can craft or modify gear and gadgets to suit your approach, but combat can attract attention from both machines and Raiders. PlayStation’s overview describes these enemies and equipment.
How do maps and conditions affect a raid?
The Rust Belt’s surface locations include Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, The Spaceport, and the Blue Gate, according to PlayStation. The page also describes Stella Montis as a rumored place. Steam and Xbox describe four maps at launch; that launch count should not be mistaken for a permanent limit on the live map lineup, which can change with updates. Xbox’s listing and Steam’s listing refer to the launch maps.
Weather, time of day, and special conditions can change how a location plays and what rewards it offers. That means a familiar map may call for a different route or risk calculation on another run. Check the in-game map conditions and current update notes rather than assuming every visit will play the same way.
What platforms is ARC Raiders on?
Embark’s official website links to Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and GeForce NOW. It also describes cross-platform social play across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Storefront access and cloud-gaming availability can vary by region, so check the relevant local store or service before buying or arranging a session. Embark’s official site has the platform links.
Is ARC Raiders free, and which edition should you buy?
ARC Raiders is a paid game, not a permanently free-to-play title. Steam lists Standard and Deluxe editions. The Deluxe edition page describes cosmetic items and 2,400 Raider Tokens alongside the base game; those listed extras are cosmetics and currency, not a stated gameplay advantage. Compare the local price and contents before deciding whether they are worth the difference. Steam’s listing has the edition details.
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- 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
Steam lists October 30, 2025, as the game’s release date. Store prices, discounts, subscription terms, and availability depend on region and date, so there is no reliable universal price to quote. Xbox says the game is cloud playable with eligible Game Pass cloud tiers but that purchase is required. PlayStation says PS Plus Essential is required for online multiplayer. Check current terms for your platform and region before purchasing. Xbox’s store listing, PlayStation’s product page, and Steam’s listing provide platform-specific information.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is the Frozen Trail update, and is there a free trial?
As of October 8, 2026, Embark’s official site promotes Frozen Trail as arriving that day. GamesRadar+ reports a free trial running October 8–12, 2026, alongside additions that include the Pendola Pass map, enemies, weapons, gadgets, quests, trials, and other systems. Because the rollout and trial window are time-sensitive, check Embark’s live announcement and your storefront to confirm whether the update and trial are available in your location. Embark’s official site is the primary place to check the update; GamesRadar+’s report gives the reported trial dates and additions.
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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.
