ARC Raiders is the quintessential extraction shooter, embodying the genre to its core. If you're familiar with games that blend scavenging, PvE combat, and PvP encounters, ARC Raiders will feel like a comfortable return to familiar territory. For those who revel in the thrill of such gameplay, this game promises to deliver exactly what you love. However, if the mechanics of extraction shooters don't excite you, ARC Raiders might not offer the novelty to change your mind.
The game's homage to its predecessors is evident right from the start, with the hero wielding a pickaxe reminiscent of Fortnite's iconic tool. This nod is just the beginning; ARC Raiders borrows heavily from the likes of Battle Royale and survival games, piecing together elements in a way that feels predictable yet satisfying. While originality might be lacking, the familiar components mesh well, creating a cohesive and enjoyable experience.
ARC Raiders - Gamescom 2024 Screenshots
View 5 Images
The objective of each round is straightforward: venture to the surface, gather better loot, and return underground alive. Two main threats stand in your way. The first are the ARC, AI-controlled battle robots patrolling the map, constantly searching for signs of life. These robots range from small, spider-like units that can be particularly unnerving, especially for those with arachnophobia, to larger, formidable crawlers. Facing the ARC can be challenging, especially when they group together or lie in wait in indoor areas. Defeating them, however, can yield valuable rewards like ammo and weapon components.
The second, and often more perilous threat, comes from other human raiders. As Humphrey Bogart's character in Casablanca might say, "this place is full of vultures, vultures everywhere." In ARC Raiders, it's often more strategic to ambush a well-equipped player than to spend time looting. This dynamic ensures you must always be vigilant, as every other raider is likely plotting the same against you.
Combat in ARC Raiders is solid and engaging. The third-person controls are intuitive, with no unexpected quirks, and the weapons feel authentic. SMGs are lively and challenging to handle, while assault rifles offer stability, and sniper rifles pack a punch. Playing in teams of three adds a layer of strategy, allowing for coordinated tactics and ambushes, heightening the tension and teamwork required to succeed.
The game's maps are cleverly designed, drawing players to resource-rich areas. These hubs become hotspots for both looters and potential ambushers, creating a dynamic environment where players must balance the risk and reward of venturing into these zones.
Visually, ARC Raiders features typical post-apocalyptic settings, with rusty warehouses, abandoned buildings, and overgrown lots. While the environments are functional, they lack a unique flair, feeling somewhat derivative. The focus here isn't on immersive lore but on the engaging gameplay loop that keeps players coming back.
Scavenging is a core component, with every drawer and cabinet offering potential treasures like crafting materials, ammo, shields, and healing items. Ammunition is thoughtfully categorized, encouraging players to scavenge and craft. A special inventory slot ensures that your most valuable find remains safe even upon death, adding a strategic layer to your looting strategy.
The game introduces tension through noisy containers that take time to open, making solo play particularly nerve-wracking as you remain vulnerable to both robots and other players. Between rounds, you return underground to craft better gear or sell your loot for cash, enhancing your equipment and abilities.
As you gain experience on the surface, you unlock Skill Trees that allow you to tailor your character to your preferred playstyle, whether focusing on combat, mobility, or stealth. The customization options are clear and impactful, making each choice feel meaningful.
Character customization with default options is basic, but premium currency unlocks more appealing textures and outfits. This allows for greater personalization and expression within the game.
Overall, ARC Raiders excels in delivering a familiar yet well-executed extraction shooter experience. Its conservative design ensures immediate comfort for fans of the genre, while the satisfying gameplay loop of looting, fighting, and improving keeps players engaged. While it may not break new ground, ARC Raiders is a solid choice for those who enjoy the thrill of extraction shooters.
