Embark Studios has recently unveiled a new trailer for their highly anticipated game, Arc Raiders, during Gamescom’s Opening Night Live event. This PvPvE action survival shooter has undergone a significant transformation, transitioning from a free-to-play model to a premium release priced at $40. The game is set to launch in 2025 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Arc Raiders takes place in a post-post-apocalyptic world where humanity has rebuilt and established subterranean settlements. Players assume the role of Arc Raiders, brave explorers who venture to the surface to scavenge for vital resources. However, they must not only contend with each other but also face off against hostile robotic enemies known as Arc Machines.
Unlike other fast-paced shooters, Arc Raiders encourages players to adopt a more measured and cautious approach. The gameplay showcased by GamesBeat suggests that strategic thinking and thoughtful decision-making will be key to survival. Rather than relying on all-out chaos and firepower, players will need to carefully navigate the dangerous landscape.
Stefan Strandberg, Embark’s cofounder and creative director, explains that the game draws inspiration from current-day themes, extrapolating them to an extreme future scenario. The game explores the relationship between humans and machines, which has become increasingly complex and strained. Despite the dangers and challenges of this world, Strandberg emphasizes that it is also inherently hopeful, vibrant, and charming.
The decision to shift from a free-to-play model to a premium one was driven by Embark’s desire to prioritize the core gameplay experience. Aleksander Grøndal, the game’s executive producer, states that this shift enables them to focus on creating an engaging, balanced, and replayable action survival game. By removing the distractions often associated with free-to-play titles, Embark can deliver a more immersive and satisfying experience for players.
Excitingly, Arc Raiders will have its first public tech test on Steam from October 24th to 27th, 2024. This provides players with an opportunity to get a glimpse of the game’s mechanics and provide valuable feedback to the development team.
In conclusion, Embark Studios’ Arc Raiders promises to be a unique and captivating addition to the action survival shooter genre. Its emphasis on thoughtful gameplay, strategic decision-making, and the exploration of complex themes sets it apart from other titles in the market. With its shift to a premium model, Embark aims to deliver a high-quality experience that will leave players engaged and eager for more.