Arc Raiders Devs Say Adding PvE Is Easy, But Balancing Player Needs Is the Real Challenge

Embark Studios has clarified that adding a dedicated PvE mode to its extraction shooter Arc Raiders is technically simple, but the real challenge lies in meeting player expectations without harming the game's identity.

What the developers said

In a recent interview, Embark's CEO explained that implementing PvE is not difficult from a technical standpoint. The hesitation came from a desire to protect the core PvPvE loop, where the constant threat of both AI enemies and other players creates a unique tension. Removing player-versus-player encounters, the team feared, might disrupt the emotional rhythm that defines the experience.

However, after a public test during the Frozen Trial event, those concerns softened. The studio saw that letting players choose their preferred style didn't break the game. As the CEO noted, they realized it might be fine to offer both options.

Test results and player reactions

The PvE test drew significant interest. According to the executive producer, nearly half of all rounds during the test were played on the PvE server. But the feedback was mixed. Some players who had demanded a PvE mode discovered that without the human threat, the game felt less compelling. Others, however, loved the change and want it to stay.

This split puts Embark in a tricky position. The team is now analyzing data to figure out how to cater to these specific needs without watering down the experience into something bland. The goal is to preserve the integrity of Arc Raiders while giving players meaningful choices.

Why this matters for players

Live service games often face pressure to adapt to player demands, but doing so can risk the original vision. For Arc Raiders, adding a permanent PvE mode could attract a wider audience, but it might also fragment the community or dilute the tense atmosphere that makes the game stand out. The developers seem committed to finding a middle ground, but it's a delicate balancing act.

What do you think? Should Embark fully embrace a PvE mode, or keep Arc Raiders focused on its PvPvE roots? Share your thoughts below.