ARC Raiders is an extraction shooter that embodies the genre's archetypes to the fullest, making it one of the most predictable yet familiar games in its category. If you're a fan of games where you scavenge for resources while dodging PvE enemies and outsmarting PvP opponents, ARC Raiders is likely to be right up your alley. However, if you're seeking something fresh and innovative, you might find little here to pique your interest.

The game pays homage to its predecessors in a way that's almost too on-the-nose, with the hero's default melee weapon being a pickaxe—a clear nod to Fortnite. This is just one of many elements that will feel instantly recognizable to fans of battle royale, survival, and extraction games. While originality might be lacking, the familiar components from other successful live service games mesh together smoothly, delivering a satisfying gameplay experience.

ARC Raiders - Gamescom 2024 Screenshots

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The core objective in ARC Raiders is straightforward: venture to the surface, gather superior loot, and return underground safely. You'll face two primary threats: the ARC, AI-controlled battle robots that patrol the map, and other human players. The ARC robots, ranging from small, spider-like scurriers to large, intimidating crawlers, pose a significant danger, especially in groups. Defeating them can yield valuable rewards like ammo and weapon components.

Human adversaries, however, are the more lethal threat. Playing ARC Raiders means constantly watching your back, as other players are eager to ambush you for your loot. The game's PvP dynamics encourage strategic play, whether you're attacking an unsuspecting player or setting up an ambush near extraction points.

Combat in ARC Raiders is solid and satisfying. The controls are typical of modern third-person shooters, with predictable weapon behavior—SMGs are hard to control, assault rifles are steady, and sniper rifles pack a punch. Playing in teams of three adds strategic depth, allowing for coordinated searches and tactical engagements that heighten the tension and excitement of each match.

The game's maps are cleverly designed, with clearly marked resource hubs that attract players looking for loot. These areas become hotspots for both cooperative and competitive play, as players either seek riches or lie in wait to steal from others.

The environments are functional but lackluster, resembling a gritty version of Fortnite's landscapes. While the world might not draw you into the lore, the focus here is clearly on the gameplay itself—akin to enjoying a tasty meatloaf, even if it's served cold.

Scavenging is a key element of ARC Raiders, with every drawer and cabinet potentially holding valuable resources like crafting components, ammo, shields, and weapons. The game introduces tension through containers that take time to open and generate noise, making solo play particularly nerve-wracking.

Between rounds, players retreat underground to craft better gear using the loot they've collected. There's also an option to sell items for cash and buy fully crafted gear from in-game stores. The crafting system includes an intriguing but mysterious element involving a live rooster.

As you explore and survive on the surface, you earn experience points that unlock Skill Trees. These allow you to tailor your character's abilities to your preferred playstyle, enhancing combat, mobility, or stealth. Each upgrade feels like meaningful progress.

Character customization starts basic but improves with premium currency, allowing for more stylish and detailed outfits. While the default options might leave you looking bleak, the potential for better looks is there.

Overall, ARC Raiders may not break new ground, but its familiar mechanics and well-tuned gameplay loop make it an enjoyable experience for fans of the genre. The cycle of looting, surviving, and improving your character provides a compelling reason to keep playing.