How is Matchmaking Done in ARC Raiders?
One of the most talked-about topics in the ARC Raiders community in recent weeks has been the matchmaking system. The perception that some players were placed in “calmer” lobbies fueled claims that ARC Raiders used an aggression-based system. However, statements from the development team reveal that this perception is not entirely accurate. Embark Studios clearly stated that the game’s matchmaking logic is not as simple or based on a binary structure as some believe.
How Does the ARC Raiders Matchmaking System Work?
In an interview, Embark Studios design director Virgil Watkins explicitly stated that ARC Raiders does not use an aggression-based matchmaking system. He emphasized that players are not consciously separated into PvE-focused or PvP-heavy lobbies, and that the system mixes everyone together. In other words, it’s not a case of suddenly being thrown into a “full PvP lobby” after killing a few players.
According to Watkins, the matchmaking process is more complex and dynamic than players realize. The game doesn’t categorize its lobby structure sharply; instead, it brings together players with different motivations in the same environment. Choosing to play more peacefully doesn’t eliminate other players’ desire for conflict. This points to ARC Raiders’ core design philosophy: PvP is a choice, not a necessity.
Another point highlighted in the explanations was that post-match polls don’t affect matchmaking. Expressing dissatisfaction after an intense PvP round doesn’t automatically move you to a calmer lobby in the next round. This data is only used for analysis and balancing, not for mechanical guidance.
Emberk Studios also notes that the system continues to evolve over time. As ARC Raiders grows, the dataset expands and balance adjustments become more precise. However, the clear message is: the game’s matchmaking structure doesn’t consciously separate players into aggressive or friendly lobbies. The biggest factor determining the lobby atmosphere is still the players’ own preferences.
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