ARC Raiders was originally announced as free-to-play, but Embark’s plan changed to a premium release ahead of launch. GameSpot reported the shift on August 20, 2024, and put the announced launch price at $40 for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. That was a launch-plan figure reported in 2024—not confirmation of the game’s current price.
What changed in ARC Raiders’ business model?
ARC Raiders had initially been presented as a free-to-play game. In August 2024, GameSpot reported that it had moved to a premium model, meaning players would need to buy the game rather than download it under the previously announced free-to-play plan. GameSpot’s report gave the planned launch price as $40 on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. GameSpot’s August 20, 2024 report
Why did Embark switch from free-to-play?
The available reporting establishes that Embark changed the plan, but does not establish a well-sourced explanation for why. Without an attributable statement from Embark or a named representative, it would be speculation to assign a motive to the decision.
When did ARC Raiders actually launch?
The 2024 announcement was made ahead of a planned 2025 release. NEXON later announced that ARC Raiders would launch globally on PC and consoles on October 30, 2025. NEXON’s release-date announcement The game is therefore already released; the official ARC Raiders news page lists post-launch updates.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
![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.
Is $40 still the current price?
The $40 figure is the announced launch price reported in 2024, not a verified current price. Prices and editions can vary by platform and region, so check the relevant store listing before buying. Official materials establish PC and console availability; the PlayStation Store listing confirms a PS5 version. It also notes that PS5 and PS Portal cloud streaming requires a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ARC Raiders–Inspired Design: Bold, high-quality graphics with vibrant colors that capture the iconic ARC Raiders aesthetic.
- Durable Premium Vinyl: Made from thick, high-grade vinyl for long-lasting use on cars, laptops, skateboards, walls, and flasks.
- UV & Weather Resistant: Fade-proof, waterproof, and scratch-resistant—perfect for indoor and outdoor applications.
- Easy Application & Removal: Applies smoothly without bubbles and removes cleanly with no sticky residue left behind.
- Versatile Décor & Gift Idea: Ideal for personalizing gear, accessories, and spaces, and a great gift for ARC Raiders fans.
Rank #4
- 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.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
