ARC Raiders Review: A Friendly Post-Apocalyptic Extraction Shooter

ARC Raiders Review: A Friendly Post-Apocalyptic Extraction Shooter

Have you tried ARC Raiders? This extraction shooter is making waves and has me using my microphone for the first time in years. It’s an exhilarating blend of adventure and strategy at a $40 price point, simply worth every penny.

Embark Studios’ long-developed project finally unfolds, and it’s the first game in this genre that truly pulls you in beyond the first few hours of gameplay.

A Better World Above

ARC Raiders hiding from giant ARC tank

The core of ARC Raiders revolves around your interactions with fellow players—a vital aspect in any PvPvE game. While there’s an emote wheel for communication, I’ve found that in-game VOIP is essential for maximizing the experience.

Exploring solo or teaming up with a couple of friends and encountering either allies or foes is a blast. Most of my adventures so far have been positive, filled with camaraderie rather than the typical shoot-on-sight mentality seen in other PvP games. Although this dynamic may shift as the community matures, my encounters with peace-seeking gamers have been refreshing.

Time after time, I surface from underground only to meet another player on the same quest. I’ve frequently joined forces with others to combat AI foes, helping each other make it safely back home. This sense of community warms my heart.

This aspect makes ARC Raiders accessible for those of us who prefer cooperation over conflict and dread the thought of losing gear—a real concern in such titles. While there’s always a risk of being shot in the back, the rewards of collaboration are undeniable.

The worldbuilding in ARC Raiders is exceptional, showcasing a compelling fight-or-befriend theme. The initial storyline teases an evolving narrative, revealing more about this universe where menacing robots, called ARCs, dominate the surface while humanity seeks refuge underground. These ARCs—ranging from small spider bots to massive behemoths—create a thrilling sense of danger.

ARC Raiders friendly

One striking feature is its retrofuture aesthetic that invites intrigue. How did this world come to be? Completing quests uncovers layers of mystery, but beware; danger lurks in the form of powerful ARCs and crafty Raiders eager to rob you.

Those hoping for extensive exposition may find ARC Raiders slightly lacking, as the story unfolds primarily through mission dialogue and quest items. I appreciate this approach and look forward to more captivating developments as I continue my journey.

Progression can be slower for cautious players like me, where taking risks can yield better gear for deeper exploration and tougher battles. While I savor the available quests, a skilled team can blaze through them rapidly.

ARC Raiders is not only the pioneering extraction shooter but also one of the few games that have had me eager to play just one more round, even late at night. I can’t stress enough how enjoyable it is, even if losing everything after dying feels like a serious blow to the gut every single time.

A Technological Feat

ARC Raiders

A significant factor behind the enjoyment of ARC Raiders is its smooth optimization. My aging PC handles this Unreal Engine 5 title effortlessly, maintaining a sweet spot of 90 fps even on high settings.

It’s impressive how Embark Studios managed to achieve this when many larger studios struggle with performance. This seamless gameplay allows players to immerse themselves in a thrilling world without the frustration of lag or hiccups.

This optimization enhances the game’s third-person mechanics. Starting with rudimentary weapons, players gather parts to upgrade and enhance their tools. Deciding when to take your best gear on a high-stakes mission becomes a gripping dilemma—knowing the higher the risk, the greater the chance of a devastating loss. The thrill is addictive.

As ARC Raiders evolves, I am eager to see the new weapons, missions, and narrative developments Embark Studios has planned ahead.

Curious about what makes a game like ARC Raiders special? What should newcomers know before diving in? How is the crafting system designed? Explore the depths of this vibrant game to find your answers, and don’t forget to visit Moyens I/O for more exciting content and insights!