[What changes in PvE mode]

The ARC Raiders PvE Toggle Beta Test runs from October 13 to October 20, giving players a chance to try a pure PvE match option alongside the normal PvPvE mode. In PvE matches, player-versus-player damage is disabled, so the focus shifts to exploring, completing objectives, fighting ARC machines, and extracting without worrying about hostile Raiders. Solo, duo, and trio squads still share the same match, but the pressure comes from the environment rather than other players.

This is a limited test. After October 20, the PvE switch will be removed while Embark reviews feedback and match data. The studio has not confirmed that PvE will become a permanent mode, so treat this week as a chance to experience the new format and decide whether it fits your playstyle.

What changes in PvE mode

The biggest difference is safety from other players. You can move through high-traffic areas, search containers, and complete tasks without being ambushed by another squad. However, PvE is not completely risk-free. ARC units can still detect downed players if they move, so staying still after being knocked down remains important. The goal is to keep tension even without PvP combat.

PvE also excludes some high-tension content. Night raids, hidden bunkers, and locked-door conditions will not appear in these matches. Because the environment is safer, overall loot value is reduced. On the other hand, normal PvPvE matches receive a small increase to base loot value during the test to balance the higher risk.

How to use the beta week

If you want to learn the map layout, practice extraction routes, or test weapon handling, PvE is a good environment. Without PvP pressure, you can spend more time opening containers, studying ARC patrol patterns, and practicing movement. It is also useful for players who want to complete objectives at their own pace.

If you prefer high-stakes encounters, PvPvE may still be the better choice. The increased base loot value makes successful extractions more rewarding, but you will need to manage positioning, third-party fights, and evacuate timing more carefully.

ARC Raiders items to prioritize

Even in PvE, your loadout matters. During this beta, focus on ARC Raiders items that improve survivability and mobility. Healing items, armor, grenades, and movement tools help you handle ARC encounters more consistently. Because loot value is lower in PvE, you should avoid wasting time chasing low-priority junk. Instead, clear containers near objectives, secure key supplies, and extract early if your inventory is already valuable.

Weapon attachments also become more meaningful when you are fighting machines rather than players. Recoil control, magazine extensions, and optics can make sustained fights against ARC units much smoother. If you find useful attachments or consumables, consider whether they are worth carrying out rather than replacing with random loot.

ARC Raiders blueprint strategy during the test

Blueprints remain one of the most valuable progression items in ARC Raiders. They unlock permanent crafting recipes, allowing you to build weapons, attachments, and consumables instead of relying only on random drops. During the PvE beta, you can use the safer environment to search containers more thoroughly.

If you find a blueprint you still need, prioritize extracting with it. Duplicate blueprints can usually be sold or donated, so they are not completely wasted, but losing an unlearned blueprint after a failed extraction still hurts. Because Night Raid conditions are not active in PvE, some high-value loot behaviors may also differ from what you would see in normal matches.

Should you play PvE or PvPvE this week?

Choose PvE if you want to explore maps, practice against ARC, complete objectives, or test loadouts without constant player pressure. It is also a good option for new players who want to understand extraction mechanics before jumping into full PvPvE matches.

If you want higher loot value, full tension, and the complete ARC Raiders experience, you can Choose PvPvE. The small boost to base loot during the test makes successful runs more profitable, but mistakes are punished harder.

Either way, the October 13-20 window is useful. PvE lets you learn the world with less stress, while PvPvE reminds you why extraction decisions still matter. After the test ends, Embark will decide whether this mode has a long-term future, so your feedback during this week could help shape what comes next.