ARC Raiders Is the Most ‘It’s Fine’ Game We’ve Played in a While

ARC Raiders epitomizes the quintessential extraction shooter, drawing heavily from its predecessors to create a familiar yet engaging experience. If you're a fan of scavenging for resources while dodging PvE threats and outsmarting PvP opponents, ARC Raiders will likely be right up your alley. However, if this genre isn't your cup of tea, there's little here that will sway your opinion, as the game sticks closely to established conventions.

The homage to its influences is clear, even down to the hero's default melee weapon—a pickaxe reminiscent of those wielded by Fortnite's Battle Bus jumpers. This nod, among others, ensures that fans of Battle Royale, survival, and extraction games will find ARC Raiders instantly recognizable. While originality may be scarce, the game effectively combines elements from other successful live service titles into a cohesive and satisfying whole.

ARC Raiders - Gamescom 2024 Screenshots

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Your mission in each round is straightforward: venture to the surface, gather better loot, and return underground safely. Two major threats stand in your way: the ARC, AI-controlled battle robots that roam the map in search of organic life, and your fellow raiders, who are just as eager to claim your spoils.

The ARC, ranging from small, spider-like scurriers to formidable crawlers, pose a significant danger, especially in groups. Their ability to detect and swarm humans based on sounds adds a layer of tension to every move. Defeating an ARC can yield valuable rewards like ammo and weapon components, making the risk worthwhile.

Your fellow raiders, however, present an even deadlier threat. As Casablanca's Rick Blaine would say, "this place is full of vultures, vultures everywhere." Ambushing a distracted, well-equipped player often proves more efficient than scavenging, and many raiders lie in wait near extraction points, ready to strike as you attempt to escape.

Combat in ARC Raiders is solid and satisfying, with controls that align well with modern third-person shooters. Firearms behave as expected, with SMGs being snappy and hard to control, while assault rifles offer steadiness and sniper rifles pack a powerful punch. Melee attacks are impactful, adding to the game's visceral feel.

Playing in teams of three introduces a strategic element, enabling coordinated efforts in searching and covering each other. Firefights between squads can become tactical, with flanking maneuvers and ambushes adding depth to the gameplay. Communication and vigilance are key, as your trio navigates the tension-filled environments.

Arc Raiders - Screenshots and GIFs

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The game's maps are cleverly designed, drawing players to resource-rich areas that become hotspots for both loot and conflict. The environments, while functional, have a generic post-apocalyptic feel, reminiscent of a grimier Fortnite. The focus here isn't on a rich narrative but on the thrill of the gameplay itself.

Scavenging is a core mechanic, with every drawer and cabinet potentially holding crafting components, ammunition, shields, healing items, and weapons. Ammunition comes in various types, keeping you engaged in the hunt for resources. The game features a color-coded rarity system for materials, which influences the crafting of more advanced items. A special inventory slot allows you to safeguard one rare item, ensuring you can bring back your best finds even upon death.

Some containers require time and create noise when opened, heightening the tension, especially when playing solo. The vulnerability of being exposed while making noise adds a thrilling element to the scavenging experience.

Between rounds, you retreat underground to convert your loot into better gear using crafting tables. You can also sell materials for cash and buy pre-crafted items at in-game stores. There's even a curious element involving a live rooster in crafting, though its purpose remains a mystery.

As you explore the surface, you earn experience that unlocks Skill Trees, allowing you to tailor your character to your preferred playstyle, enhancing combat, mobility, or stealth. The progression feels rewarding, with each upgrade making a noticeable difference.

Character customization starts basic but improves with premium currency, offering better textures and outfits. While default options might leave you with a bleak-looking avatar, spending can unlock more stylish appearances.

ARC Raiders may not reinvent the wheel, but its familiar design ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for fans of the genre. The gameplay loop of looting, fighting, and improving your gear is well-tuned and engaging, making it a solid choice for an afternoon of gaming.