ARC RAIDERS / GUIDE
PvE beta: rules and matchmaking
Historical test rules: the beta ended, confirmed in update 2.2.0 on 20 October.
Check the dated test window
Update 2.2.0 confirms the PvE beta has ended. The historical window was 13–20 October 2026, 11:00 CEST at both ends. No permanent mode or extension is announced. The following rules describe that completed test.
Explore: Check the dated test window
What changes between Raiders
PvE disables damage between players. Throwable fire and stun items do not affect other Raiders, while barricades and keep their physical interactions. Ordinary PvPvE matchmaking remains available with its standard rules. Our advice: agree on your chosen queue before comparing squad plans.
Explore: What changes between Raiders
Loot and party expectations
Loot value is lower in PvE. The test does not prioritise separating different squad sizes, so solo Raiders and larger parties may meet. It is not a private world or a guarantee that you will be matched only with parties like yours. Embark also warned that quieter regions and hours can affect queue times.
Explore: Loot and party expectations
Conditions that stay PvPvE
Matchmaking
Night Raid, Locked Gate, Hidden Bunker, Frigate and Redirection do not offer PvE during the test.
Objectives
Plan those objectives under the usual risk of hostile Raiders.
Keep in mind
The map and quest tools are planning references, not a live report of queue availability.
Explore: Conditions that stay PvPvE
Downed does not mean safe from ARC
Threats
ARC have an eight-second grace period before they can reacquire a downed Raider.
In practice
After that period, they may attack if they see that Raider moving.
Combat considerations
Our advice: keep cover and a squad rescue plan; zero damage from other players does not remove machine threats.