Embark Studios has wrapped up the PvE test for ARC Raiders. According to GamingBolt, the studio plans to share its future plans for the mode in November. MMOEXP reports that the test logged a total of 30 million raids.
This news confirms two things: the test has ended, and a decision is on the way. We didn’t find any statements from the studio in the excerpts we reviewed. Embark hasn’t clarified whether PvE will return as a permanent mode, as a recurring event, or if it’s gone for good.
The 30 million raids reported by MMOEXP indicate strong participation. However, that number is cumulative, and we lack details on player counts, session lengths, or completion rates. So, while it shows volume, it doesn’t reflect retention accurately.
The timing is crucial since the game is still new. ARC Raiders, published by Nexon, launched on October 30, 2025, priced at $39.99 on Steam. It currently has 55,612 concurrent players. Earlier coverage from Explosion noted a peak of 78.9K, so the current numbers are below that high.
Player sentiment adds to the pressure. The game boasts an 81% positive rating from 258,131 Steam reviews, which is impressive. However, the 10 community signals we tracked mostly lean negative, with complaints focusing on PvP rather than the core gameplay.
| PvE test raids completed (per MMOEXP) | 30 million |
| Steam reviews | 81% positive (258,131 reviews) |
| Current players | 55,612 |
| Price on Steam | $39.99 |
| Studio announcement window | November |
Community Pulse
The strongest feedback links the game’s future to this decision. One negative Steam review states: “One of my favorite PvE games, hands down. One of the most toxic PvP experiences otherwise. Stay away until PvE mode is permanent.” This reviewer loves the PvE aspect but warns against buying the game, highlighting how important the test was for some players.
What To Watch
- The November announcement: Whether Embark decides on a permanent PvE mode, a limited-time return, or something different will shape player perceptions regarding the test’s conclusion.
- Concurrent player counts: The current figure of 55,612 serves as the baseline. A lasting drop or increase after the announcement will indicate how much demand for PvE drives player engagement.
- Steam review trend: The 81% positive score looks healthy. Keep an eye on whether negative reviews related to PvP increase if PvE remains offline.
Alex Mercer
Alex Mercer is the Gaming News Editor at Explosion.com with over 8 years of experience covering the gaming industry. He previously wrote for several gaming publications and has attended E3, Gamescom, and The Game Awards as press. Alex specializes in breaking news coverage, studio analysis, and tracking industry trends. When not writing, he's grinding ranked matches in Valorant or exploring the latest RPG releases.
