Embark Studios has heard a long-standing request from some Arc Raiders players. They decided to conduct a full-fledged PvE mode test from October 13 to 20.
Shortly before the feature launched, the developers presented a blog post detailing how PvE works:
- Players will no longer be able to deal damage to each other.
- Throwable items, including stun and incendiary grenades, will not affect other players.
- Other physical interaction items, such as barricades and ziplines, will work as usual.
- The overall value of loot on PvE servers will be reduced.
- Squad separation will not be a priority, so groups of different sizes will encounter each other more often.
- Some map conditions will not be offered for PvE, such as 'night raid' or 'hidden bunker'.
Standard matchmaking will continue to apply to PvPvE matches. This will allow developers to collect accurate data on how the PvE switch affects PvPvE. They warned that matchmaking times may change in regions with low populations and during quiet hours: 'we will closely monitor the situation to ensure quality gaming sessions for everyone'.
Arc Raiders developers explained that within the framework of this test, they intend to obtain 'the highest quality data'. To do this, they need players to leave as much feedback as possible. They want to hear opinions not only from PvE-oriented players. The authors are also interested in feedback from PvPvE players on how the appearance of the PvE option has affected their gaming experience:
If you primarily prefer PvE and want to see PvE systems implemented in the future, we need your help to understand what works and what doesn't. This also applies to other players: if you plan to play only in the standard PvPvE mode, please continue to play and let us know how (and if at all) the PvE switch affects your gaming experience.
After the PvE testing in Arc Raiders is completed, the developers will conduct a survey during which players will be able to share more detailed impressions and tell in which direction they would like to see PvE develop.