ARC Raiders has taken the gaming world by storm in 2025, revitalizing the extraction shooter genre. Players have found themselves facing intensely competitive lobbies, prompting many to blame Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) for the challenges they encounter. However, the truth is quite different according to ARC Raiders’ CEO.
Recently, it came to light that ARC Raiders utilizes something called aggression-based matchmaking, an approach that’s not commonly seen in online gaming. As many players jump in after the latest Cold Snap update, understanding this new system could significantly enhance their experience.
ARC Raiders Boss Explains How Matchmaking Works
In an engaging interview with GamesBeat, Patrick Söderlund, the CEO of Embark Studios, addressed the matchmaking concerns many have had. He stated, “If your preference is to do PvE and have less conflict with players, you’ll get more matched up [with those players].” Unlike typical skill-based matchmaking, ARC Raiders analyzes players’ behaviors and connects them with others who share similar gameplay styles.
This means stats like kill/death ratios or ranks aren’t the focus in lobbies. Instead, the game matches players based on their preferences: if someone tends to avoid other players and heads directly for objectives, they’ll likely find themselves grouped with others who favor cooperative PvE gameplay. Conversely, those who enjoy competing against others will find they face more aggressive players.
What Is Aggression-Based Matchmaking?
A few games utilize this system, but most, like Fortnite or Call of Duty, stick to traditional Skill-Based Matchmaking, where players are paired according to their in-game statistics. The aggression-based model adopted by ARC Raiders creates a unique and personalized experience for players, allowing them to engage with others who match their playstyles.
How Does This Impact Player Experience?
This unique matchmaking system could greatly enhance the game’s longevity. It not only differentiates ARC Raiders from other extraction shooters but also gives players the ability to shape their gaming encounters. The more players understand this system, the better equipped they’ll be to maximize their enjoyment during gameplay.
Can Players Switch Between Matchmaking Preferences?
Yes, players can absolutely adjust their playstyle. If you find that you prefer objective-based gameplay over PvP encounters, simply change your approach in-game, and the matchmaking algorithm will pair you with like-minded players. This allows for a smoother gaming experience tailored to your enjoyment.
As ARC Raiders grows, it will be fascinating to see how well this aggression-based matchmaking holds up against traditional systems. Additionally, will players find themselves more connected to the game as a result? This evolution in matchmaking could signal exciting times ahead for the entire community.
What are your thoughts on this new matchmaking system? Have you experienced the differences in ARC Raiders? Share your experiences in the comments below!