ARC Raiders stands out as a quintessentially familiar extraction shooter, drawing heavily from its genre predecessors to offer an experience that feels both comforting and predictable. If you're a fan of scavenging for valuable loot while dodging PvE threats and competing against other players in PvP scenarios, ARC Raiders is likely to captivate you. Conversely, if these mechanics don't excite you, ARC Raiders may not introduce enough novelty to change your mind.
The game's homage to its inspirations is evident even in the choice of the hero's default melee weapon—a pickaxe, reminiscent of Fortnite's iconic tool. This nod is just the beginning; ARC Raiders borrows heavily from battle royale, survival, and extraction games, assembling a familiar yet satisfying gameplay experience.
ARC Raiders - Gamescom 2024 Screenshots
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The core objective of each round is straightforward: venture to the surface, gather superior loot, and return underground safely. Two primary threats stand in your way. The first are the ARC, AI-controlled battle robots patrolling the map in search of organic life. These robots, ranging from small, spider-like scurriers to formidable large crawlers, pose a significant danger, especially when encountered in groups. Defeating an ARC can yield valuable rewards such as ammo and weapon components.
The second, and often more lethal, threat comes from other players. In ARC Raiders, vigilance is key, as fellow raiders are always on the lookout for an easy target. It's often more strategic to ambush a well-equipped player than to spend time searching for loot in abandoned warehouses or lurking near extraction points.
Combat in ARC Raiders is solid and satisfying. The third-person controls are intuitive and familiar, with firearms and melee attacks feeling appropriately weighted. SMGs are lively and challenging to control, while assault rifles offer stability and power, and sniper rifles deliver impactful shots.
Playing in teams of three adds strategic depth to the gameplay. Coordinating with teammates allows for more systematic searches and effective coverage, leading to tactical firefights where squads employ flanking and ambush tactics. The game's maps are cleverly designed, with high-value resource areas attracting players and creating hotspots for both loot and conflict.
Arc Raiders - Screenshots and GIFs
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The environments in ARC Raiders are functional but unremarkable, featuring typical post-apocalyptic settings like rusty warehouses and overgrown lots. While the world lacks depth in terms of lore, the gameplay loop remains engaging. ARC Raiders may not dazzle with its setting, but it offers a satisfying experience akin to a hearty, if unadorned, meal.
Every drawer and cabinet holds potential treasures, from crafting components and ammunition to shields, healing items, and weapons. Ammunition types are varied, encouraging players to scavenge and craft. Materials are categorized by rarity, with certain colors unlocking the ability to craft more advanced items. A special inventory slot ensures that your rarest finds remain secure even upon death.
Opening certain containers can be tense, as they generate noise that might attract unwanted attention from both robots and other players. This mechanic adds a thrilling layer of vulnerability, especially when playing solo.
Between rounds, players retreat underground to convert their loot into better gear through crafting tables. You can also sell materials for cash or buy pre-crafted items from in-game stores. An intriguing, albeit unexplained, element involves crafting with a live rooster.
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 capabilities.
Character customization starts basic but improves with premium currency, offering better textures and outfits. While default options may leave much to be desired, the potential for personalization adds a layer of engagement.
Overall, ARC Raiders previews well due to its familiar design, offering a well-tuned gameplay loop that encourages players to loot, fight, and improve their gear and abilities. It's a solid choice for fans of the genre looking for a reliable and enjoyable experience.
