Embark Studios
Gameplay
ARC Raiders is a free-to-play, third-person PvPvE extraction shooter set in a post-apocalyptic world under siege by the robotic ARC. Players form squads and drop into vast, hostile maps with a mission: complete objectives, scavenge valuable materials, and survive long enough to reach an extraction point. The core tension comes from battling both the relentless, unpredictable AI enemies and other player squads fighting for the same loot. Success requires tactical teamwork, smart use of your Raider's unique abilities, and adapting your strategy to dynamic threats.
Key Features:
Monetization
ARC Raiders is free to play, supported by optional cosmetic purchases that do not affect gameplay balance.
Based on publicly available reviews and community feedback for ARC Raiders.
Discover community tools, guides, and resources for ARC Raiders.
No community tools or resources have been added for ARC Raiders yet.
Have a ARC Raiders tool, wiki, or community resource? We'd love to feature it here with a possible link exchange.
Submit Your Resource โOur editorial assessment of monetization practices in ARC Raiders
How much paying affects actual gameplay power and competitive advantage
Players report that all gear obtainable through the cash shop is non-exclusive and primarily cosmetic. According to community feedback, there's no significant combat advantage from purchased items, as all gear can be found in-game.
ARC Raiders has a P2W score of 0.4/10, which is considered minimal. Minor convenience items available. No significant gameplay advantage. The game offers a fair experience for players who don't spend money.
No, ARC Raiders is not free to play. You need to purchase the game to play it.
ARC Raiders is available on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
ARC Raiders is a FPS, Co-op, PvP, PvE, Extraction Shooter, and Action game.
ARC Raiders was developed by Embark Studios.
ARC Raiders has a pay-to-win score of 0.4 out of 10. This score is calculated based on 9 factors including gameplay impact, progression pressure, and monetization ethics. A lower score means the game is fairer for non-paying players.
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Many users indicate that while cosmetic purchases exist, they don't affect competitive play. Any gear obtained through the shop is temporary and lost upon death, ensuring that skill remains the primary factor in PvP.
Forum discussions suggest that all items, including those in the Raider Deck battle pass, are obtainable through gameplay. There are no exclusive power items locked behind a paywall, reinforcing the game's fair play ethos.
How aggressively the game pushes players to spend money to progress
Community consensus indicates that while cosmetic items are expensive, the core gameplay progression is not artificially hindered. Players can earn Raider Tokens through gameplay, minimizing the grind for essential items.
According to player experiences, there's no significant advantage to purchasing items. Players can earn everything through gameplay, and spending merely accelerates access to cosmetics rather than providing a competitive edge.
Users frequently mention that while there are cosmetic bundles and battle passes, the first Raider Deck is free and future passes can be earned without spending. This reduces the urgency typically associated with FOMO tactics.
Fairness and transparency of the monetization practices
Players report that there are no loot boxes or gacha mechanics in ARC Raiders. All purchases are straightforward, with clear pricing for cosmetic items and battle passes.
Many users indicate that the pricing structure is relatively clear, but some players express frustration over the high costs of cosmetics in a premium game. However, the absence of hidden fees or complex currencies is noted.
According to community feedback, while cosmetic bundles can cost between $10 and $20, players can still compete without spending any money. The free Raider Deck allows for earning currency, making it accessible for free players.
Our assessment of ARC Raiders is based on the following publicly available sources:
Disclaimer: The P2W analysis for ARC Raiders represents our editorial opinion based on publicly available information and community feedback as of January 2026. Game monetization systems may change over time. We encourage players to research current in-game purchases before making decisions. This analysis is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered definitive or exhaustive.
If you believe any information is inaccurate or outdated, please contact us with corrections.
