Embark Studios 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 change, transitioning from a free-to-play model to a premium release priced at $40. The game is slated for release in 2025 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S platforms. GamesBeat had the opportunity to preview the gameplay ahead of its showcase at Gamescom, revealing a tactical approach rather than a chaotic one for players.
In Arc Raiders, players assume the roles of the eponymous Arc Raiders, who are tasked with scavenging for resources on the surface of a post-apocalyptic world for underground settlements. They must contend with both rival players and hostile robots known as Arc Machines to secure limited supplies. However, the characters can only progress and develop if they manage to return to the settlements alive. The gameplay showcased by Embark encourages thoughtful decision-making and strategic planning over mindless combat.
According to Stefan Strandberg, Embark’s co-founder and creative director, the game draws inspiration from current-day themes taken to extremes. The prospect of space colonization and the increasingly complex relationship between man and machine serve as key influences for Arc Raiders. Set in a distant future that has moved past the apocalypse, the game’s world is portrayed as dangerous yet 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 focus on creating an engaging, balanced, and replayable action survival experience. Aleksander Grøndal, the game’s executive producer, emphasizes the importance of this shift and believes it will allow the team to deliver a more polished and fulfilling game.
Excitingly, Arc Raiders will have its first public tech test on Steam from October 24-27, 2024, giving players a chance to experience the game before its official release. This test will provide valuable feedback to the developers and help shape the final version of the game.
In conclusion, Arc Raiders promises to offer players a unique and immersive gaming experience. With its shift to a premium model and a focus on strategic gameplay, the game aims to captivate players with its thought-provoking narrative and engaging mechanics. Embark Studios’ dedication to creating an engaging and balanced action survival experience indicates that Arc Raiders has the potential to become a standout title in the gaming industry.
