Almost Every Extraction Game Has PvE Built In, So Why Doesn’t ARC Raiders?
The extraction game genre has become increasingly divided over PvE content, with most major titles now offering player-versus-environment alternatives to their core PvP experiences. This industry trend reflects efforts to retain players across different playstyles.
However, ARC Raiders—Embark Studios’ extraction game launched in October 2024—stands as a notable exception. Despite mounting player criticism and a declining playerbase in recent months, the studio has shown reluctance to implement PvE content, departing from industry practice. Nearly every other extraction title has either launched with or added PvE modes post-release to satisfy player demands.
The absence of PvE options has become a point of community contention, with concerns that the competitive-only approach may be contributing to the game’s retention struggles. While PvP-focused players defend the genre’s core competitive nature, the broader trend suggests that offering PvE alternatives has become expected functionality for maintaining engagement in the extraction space.
Whether PvE implementation could reverse ARC Raiders’ declining fortunes remains uncertain, but Embark Studios’ resistance to the trend places the title at odds with industry norms. The decision raises questions about the studio’s long-term strategy and whether the PvP-exclusive focus will continue to alienate potential players.