Last year, Embark Studios made waves in the multiplayer shooter scene with The Finals. Now, the same studio raises the bar for the extraction shooter genre with ARC Raiders, set in a post-apocalyptic sci-fi universe. With an impressive Metacritic Critic Score of 86 and glowing player feedback, ARC Raiders is already being called one of 2025’s top multiplayer experiences.

Atmosphere and Story: Survival at Its Finest

ARC Raiders takes place on a visually stunning planet ravaged by a mysterious, machine-driven threat known as the ARC.

• Atmosphere: The game revolves around emerging from underground bunkers (Speranza) to scavenge valuable resources. The surface offers both breathtaking vistas and a constant sense of danger. The visuals and audio design instantly immerse you in this deadly world.

• Mysterious Threat (PvE): ARC machines range from small drone swarms to the massive, destructive Matriarch. Their advanced AI and unique weak points make each PvE encounter a tactical puzzle that demands strategy.

Gameplay: Striking the Perfect Balance Between Chaos and Control

ARC Raiders keeps the core thrill of the genre while making it accessible for newcomers.

• Extraction Experience: Players must collect gear, complete objectives, and most importantly, extract their loot safely back to base. Thanks to dynamic weather and ever-changing events, no two runs ever feel the same.

• PvPvE Action: You’ll be fighting both robotic enemies and rival Raider squads. PvP moments are incredibly tense; the sound of gunfire can quickly attract other teams looking for an opportunity.

• Progression System: Completing missions earns you XP, which you can spend on skill trees divided into Survival, Mobility, and Stamina. This lets you shape your playstyle to fit your strengths.

Critics and Player Feedback

Since launch, ARC Raiders has received praise from both critics and players.

• Critic Score (86): Outlets like IGN, Eurogamer Germany, and GameSpot call it a "genre-defining" and "incredibly immersive" experience that’s also highly accessible. Some even say it’s one of the best multiplayer games in years.

• Player Opinions (8.1/10): Gamers especially praise the top-notch audio design and the fluidity of combat. Some solo players note that going up against coordinated three-person squads can be challenging.

Verdict

ARC Raiders delivers a modern, technically polished, and atmospheric take on the extraction shooter genre. Embark Studios has created a player-focused, ever-evolving world, building on their experience from The Finals. If you love high-stakes action, rich PvE, and risk-reward mechanics, ARC Raiders is a must-play.