ARC Raiders stands out as the quintessential extraction shooter, embodying the genre's core elements with such precision that it feels almost predictably familiar. If you're a fan of scavenging for resources while dodging PvE threats and outwitting PvP opponents, ARC Raiders is likely to be right up your alley. However, if this gameplay loop doesn't excite you, there's little in ARC Raiders that feels groundbreaking enough to change your mind.
The game's homage to its predecessors is evident from the get-go, with the hero's default melee weapon being a pickaxe—a nod to Fortnite's Battle Bus drop-ins. This tribute is just the beginning; ARC Raiders borrows heavily from the playbook of Battle Royale, survival crafting games, and other extraction shooters, assembling a familiar yet satisfying experience. While originality might be lacking, the game's mechanics mesh together smoothly, creating a reliable and enjoyable gameplay loop.
ARC Raiders - Gamescom 2024 Screenshots
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Each round in ARC Raiders revolves around a simple yet challenging goal: venture to the surface, gather better loot, and return underground alive. You'll face two primary threats. The first are the ARC, AI-controlled battle robots patrolling the map for any signs of life. These robots range from small, spider-like scurriers to larger, more menacing crawlers. They're particularly dangerous in groups, and the map is cleverly designed with traps and clusters of ARC units that can catch you off guard. Defeating them can yield valuable rewards like ammo and weapon components.
The second, and arguably more lethal threat, comes from other players. In ARC Raiders, you must always be on guard, as fellow raiders are eager to take you down and steal your loot. Whether it's ambushing a distracted player or lurking near extraction points, the PvP element adds a thrilling layer of tension and strategy to the game.
Combat in ARC Raiders is solid and satisfying. The controls are standard for modern third-person shooters, with no unexpected quirks. Firearms feel appropriately balanced, with SMGs being light and hard to control, assault rifles offering steady firepower, and sniper rifles delivering powerful shots. Melee attacks are impactful, enhancing the overall combat experience.
Playing in teams of three adds strategic depth to the game. Coordinating with your squad allows for more systematic searches and effective coverage, leading to tactical firefights and ambushes. The game's maps are designed to funnel players toward the most lucrative areas, creating hotspots where players vie for the best loot and engage in intense battles.
Arc Raiders - Screenshots and GIFs
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The game's environments, while functional, feel somewhat generic, reminiscent of other post-apocalyptic settings with rusty warehouses and abandoned buildings. While this might detract from the immersion, the focus of ARC Raiders is clearly on the gameplay rather than the lore.
Scavenging is a key component of the game, with every drawer and cabinet offering potential loot like crafting components, ammo, shields, and weapons. Ammo types are segmented to keep you engaged in the scavenging process, and materials are categorized by rarity, allowing you to craft increasingly powerful gear. A special inventory slot ensures that your rarest finds remain safe even if you die.
Opening certain containers generates noise, adding a tense mechanic that heightens the vulnerability of solo play. Between rounds, you head underground to convert your loot into crafting materials, enhancing your gear and abilities. There's also an intriguing element involving a live rooster in the crafting process, though its purpose remains a mystery.
As you progress, you earn experience that unlocks Skill Trees, allowing you to tailor your character's abilities to your preferred playstyle. Whether focusing on combat, mobility, or stealth, the progression feels rewarding and impactful.
Character customization starts off basic but improves with premium currency, offering better textures and outfits. While the default options might be lackluster, the game's focus on gameplay and progression more than compensates for this.
Overall, ARC Raiders excels in delivering a polished and familiar extraction shooter experience. Its conservative design ensures it's immediately accessible and enjoyable, making it a solid choice for fans of the genre. The gameplay loop of looting, fighting, and improving your gear is well-tuned and engaging, offering a satisfying way to spend your gaming time.
