What's Happening?
Embark Studios has successfully concluded the 'Server Slam' playtest for its upcoming extraction shooter, Arc Raiders. The playtest, which ran over the weekend, was available on multiple platforms including PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, PlayStation
5, and Xbox Series X and S. During this period, Arc Raiders achieved a peak concurrent player count of 189,668 on Steam, marking it as one of the most-played games on the platform over the weekend. The playtest allowed players to experience the Dam Battlegrounds map and test elements of the game's progression, crafting, and quest systems. Participants earned an exclusive 'Server Slammer' backpack cosmetic reward, which will be unlocked when the full game launches on October 30. However, progress from the playtest will not carry over to the full game.
Why It's Important?
The high engagement during the 'Server Slam' playtest suggests a strong potential for Arc Raiders upon its official release. With nearly 190,000 concurrent players on Steam, the game is positioned to make a significant impact in the gaming industry, particularly in the extraction shooter genre. This level of interest indicates that Arc Raiders could attract a substantial player base, potentially rivaling other popular titles in the genre. The successful stress test of the game's servers also bodes well for a smooth launch, minimizing technical issues that could deter players. Embark Studios' previous title, The Finals, experienced a decline in player numbers post-launch, making the initial success of Arc Raiders crucial for the studio's reputation and future projects.
What's Next?
Arc Raiders is set to officially launch on October 30, and the gaming community is anticipating its arrival. The strong performance during the playtest suggests that the game could see high initial sales and player engagement. As the release date approaches, Embark Studios may continue to promote the game and address any remaining technical issues to ensure a seamless launch. The gaming industry will be watching closely to see if Arc Raiders can maintain its momentum and establish itself as a leading title in the extraction shooter genre.
