Since its exciting reveal at The Game Awards in 2021, anticipation for ARC Raiders, a thrilling extraction adventure developed by former EA and DICE developers, has been steadily building. With the opening of pre-orders, fans can now take significant steps towards joining the action.
As the release of Marathon approaches, ARC Raiders has gained traction in gaming discussions. Both titles, sci-fi extraction shooters launching in 2025, share intriguing similarities that invite comparisons.
Created by Embark Studios, known for their work on The Finals, ARC Raiders is set in a retro-futuristic landscape where PvE challenges are crafted to be as intimidating as their human adversaries. Following a notably successful first playtest, it stands as one of the most eagerly awaited gaming releases of 2025.
If you’re ready to dive into the world of ARC Raiders, here’s everything you need to know about its release date, platform availability, and gameplay highlights.
Release Date
ARC Raiders is officially set to launch on October 30, 2025. This date was confirmed during the Summer Game Fest 2025. Originally intended for a 2022 release, the game’s launch was moved back to enhance player experience and potential. Despite a tentative 2023 window, further delays ensued.
Available Platforms
ARC Raiders will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, ensuring accessibility for all current-generation gamers. However, it’s important to note that there will be no legacy console version, which means players on older systems will have to upgrade to join the fun.
While there are currently no plans for a Nintendo Switch 2 version, possibilities for future releases remain open.
Steam Deck Compatibility
Yes, ARC Raiders is compatible with the Steam Deck. However, there hasn’t been confirmation whether it will be fully verified upon release. Players using ProtonDB have reported decent performance on the device with minor instability and ray tracing limitations. Notably, some crashes occurred during the Alpha playtest phase, so improvements are anticipated.
Pre-order Information
On September 22, Embark Studios announced that pre-orders have officially opened, offering two unique editions with distinct benefits:
Standard Edition
- Base game
- Lucky Duck Bundle
Ultimate Edition
- Base game
- Lucky Duck Bundle
- Astro Bundle
- Valente Outfit
- Pathfinder Backpack
- Blanket Roll Backpack Attachment
- Lip Scar Face Cosmetic
- Finger Gun: Rapid Fire Emote
- Cowboy Scrappy Skin
- 2, 400 Raider Tokens
📡 Prepare to head topside, ARC Raiders pre-orders are live! Pre-order either the Standard or Deluxe edition to receive the ‘Hatchling’ backpack and ‘Golden Rubber Duck’ backpack charm. Get geared for the Rust Belt with the Deluxe Pre-Order exclusive Astro Bundle.… pic.twitter.com/J1NnSXNwgo
— ARC Raiders (@ARCRaidersGame) September 22, 2025
Pricing Details
The price for ARC Raiders is set at $40 for the standard version, while the Ultimate Edition is priced at $60. Initially envisioned as a free-to-play model, Embark Studios decided to implement a purchase requirement to enhance the overall player experience without incentivizing paid in-game transactions.
Server Slam Open Test
Players will have one final opportunity to experience ARC Raiders ahead of its launch during the Server Slam test, scheduled from October 17 to October 19. Unlike previous tests, no codes are needed, allowing anyone on any platform to join seamlessly.
Players can download the game from their respective platform stores. This test aims to evaluate server stability pre-launch while also allowing players to experience the Dam Battlegrounds with elements of progression and crafting, all while completing various quests. Any progress made during this test will not carry over to the final game, but participants will receive an exclusive backpack upon release on October 30.
The Storyline
In ARC Raiders, players team up as Raiders defending a perilous version of Earth, heavily influenced by 1980s aesthetics, against the ARC—an advanced mechanized species from space.
According to the game’s official website, players will “enlist as a Raider and thrive in a desolate world, shaping your legacy by scavenging the lethal surface and building a residence in the sprawling underground neighborhood of Speranza, all while being wary of both machines and rival Raiders.”
Prepare for encounters with formidable foes like the Bison robot, loot exploration, and crafting opportunities, adding a rich layer of strategy to the gameplay.
Engaging Gameplay Mechanics
ARC Raiders offers a cooperative PvPvE extraction shooter experience, challenging players to collaborate against both AI-generated enemies and other players. A variety of weapons and gadgets are at your disposal, with more available through defeating foes and completing missions.
The official ARC Raiders website showcases an array of retro-futuristic equipment, including a grappling Snap Hook and a powerful Howitzer rocket launcher for immense destruction.
Game Trailers
The journey of ARC Raiders began with its world premiere gameplay trailer at The Game Awards 2021, highlighting intense combat scenarios and showcasing various iconic gameplay elements. View the full trailer here:
A subsequent 2023 closed Alpha trailer provided deeper insights into the storyline and gameplay mechanics, blending stealth tactics with intense skirmishes. Watch the trailer:
On August 20, 2024, a Gamescom teaser announced the game’s targeted 2025 release alongside an invitation for beta testing. Check it out here:
Following that, an early tech test in October 2024 delivered the longest gameplay trailer to date, revealing more about gameplay settings, lore, and the Raiders’ origins:
In April 2025, another trailer previewed the second tech test that took place from April 30 to May 4, further showcasing gameplay advancements:
Lastly, the latest trailer from Summer Game Fest 2025 highlighted release details and offered fresh gameplay footage:
Crossplay Features
Yes, ARC Raiders will support full cross-platform play, facilitating cooperation among players regardless of their chosen gaming system. Whether you’re on PC, Xbox, or PlayStation, you can seamlessly join forces with friends across different platforms.
Following the second playtest, it was confirmed that players can actively toggle crossplay settings to suit their preferences.
That sums up the essential information on ARC Raiders. Mark your calendars, and get ready for an exhilarating experience!
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