•The long-awaited PvE test for Arc Raiders has finally gone live, providing players with an option to experience the game’s surface without the constant threat of being attacked by other raiders.
Arc Raiders recently acknowledged that a significant portion of its audience preferred a more passive approach to the game, announcing plans to test a temporary PvE toggle. While this was announced several weeks ago, the mode has only just become available to play.
The author’s personal account describes dropping into Pendola Pass as noticeably calmer than the standard experience. Upon leaving their bunker, they encountered ongoing combat involving other players attempting to take down a newer arc known as the Bully—a tougher-than-expected enemy that absorbed damage from a Wolfpack grenade.
“It may sound boring to someone who loves the adrenaline dump of PvP, but for someone who just wants to explore the map, take down arcs, and perhaps help out their fellow raider along the way this experience right here is golden,” the writer stated.
The PvE mode introduces notable changes to how enemies operate. Arcs will finish off players if they catch them moving while downed, which shifts the social dynamic—rather than fearing approaching footsteps, raiders now find reassurance in hearing others nearby.
This cooperative element proved central to the experience. When confronted by a Skulker alongside companions, one raider found themselves pinned behind crates running low on ammunition until an unnamed stranger provided covering fire and eliminated the threat before departing.
“They were gone before I could say thank you, so I decided to pay it forward instead,” the writer recounted, later helping another raider distract Wasps around a shed. “Nothing was said, but after a thankful wave we went our separate ways and I extracted back to Speranza.”
The piece concludes that Arc Raiders already earns affection for its world, action, and crafting systems, but the PvE test adds something distinct: the ability to help others without concern of betrayal.
“It also just feels really nice to help without the worry that the person you’ve just saved may shoot you in the back of the head,” the writer said, adding they plan to play the mode “almost exclusively while I still have the chance.”
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