What to know
- ARC Raiders uses aggression-based matchmaking to sort PvE-friendly players into relaxed lobbies and PvP hunters into intense ones.
- Avoid any damage to players—even in self-defense—for 5-15 matches to shift your behavior score toward PvE pools.
- Communicate via emotes, proximity chat, or item drops to signal friendliness and speed up the process.
- No official PvE-only mode exists yet, but this system delivers near-PvE experiences effectively.
In ARC Raiders' world of scavenging and survival, rogue raiders often turn it all into a deadly PvPvE showdown. Luckily, the game's smart matchmaking lets you curate friendlier lobbies focused on PvE action by playing peacefully over multiple runs.
How aggression-based matchmaking shapes your lobbies
Embark Studios CEO confirmed this system prioritizes skill, group size, then behavior to pair like-minded raiders. Your actions—like dealing damage to players or looting their bodies—flag you for PvP-heavy lobbies, even in defense. Play passively for several expeditions, and the algorithm gradually funnels you into calmer matches where you spot others looting the same POIs without conflict.
Settings tweaks for smoother PvE entry
Start by optimizing your setup. Turn off crossplay on PC for potentially friendlier PC-only queues, though it's not required. Pick servers matching your language for better proximity chat—like NA for English speakers—to foster cooperation and avoid misunderstandings. Queue solo or small groups during off-peak hours to dodge aggressive weekend crowds.
How to build your PvE behavior score step by step
Follow this detailed process over multiple matches to reset any prior PvP history. Use free loadouts initially since early lobbies might still have hostiles.
Step 1
Drop with basic gear or free kit. Focus solely on ARCs—ignore players completely, no shooting back even if attacked.
Step 2
Spot another raider? Spam "Hey" or "Don't Shoot" emotes immediately, or say it in proximity chat. Hide if needed, but signal peace.
Step 3
Drop low-value items near them (like ammo). If they pick up and thank you, it boosts your friendly score.
Step 4
Carry a Defibrillator—revive downed players to show cooperation and influence matchmaking positively.
Step 5
Play instruments like Acoustic Guitar near others for the Vibing effect, encouraging chill vibes.
Step 6
Extract successfully without PvP actions. Repeat 5-15 times; POIs looting fast early-game signals a PvE lobby.
Step 7
Once in, keep communicating ("Hey raider" or emotes) and team up against big ARCs for mutual gains.
Spotting and thriving in PvE lobbies
You'll know you're in one when multiple players hit POIs early without fights, or everyone ignores each other while farming. Benefits include easier Trials, blueprint farming, and high-credit runs on tough maps like Stella Montis. Watch for occasional "rats" who infiltrate—use chat and emotes to navigate, but extract smartly.
Stick to peaceful play long enough, and you'll unlock consistent PvE bliss in ARC Raiders—perfect for farming without the stress. Experiment with these tips, adapt to your server, and soon you'll extract loaded every time.
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