Embark Studios has launched a free open test for Arc Raiders, with the studio aiming to put the servers to the test before the PvPvE extraction shooter officially launches on October 30.
The “server slam,” as it’s being referred to, is live now through October 19 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Not everyone is seeing the Steam client appear right now, but it’s said to be rolling out in waves, so keep checking back.
As announced previously, the Arc Raiders free test allows people to try the Dam Battleground map and experience the progression, crafting, and quest systems. For Embark Studios, the test is being undertaken to help the studio prepare its servers for launch.
Everyone who takes part in the test will get the Server Slammer backpack cosmetic reward when the full game launches on October 30. Progress from the test does not carry forward to the full launch.
Embark Studios was founded by a team of industry veterans, including former longtime EA and Battlefield executive Patrick Soderlund. Arc Raiders, a $40 game, is coming to market just after EA’s Battlefield 6 launched on October 10 and had a huge debut.
Arc Raiders is set in the future and has players going underground to take shelter from “Arc” robots. Players venture out into the land above ground to collect resources and fight. Take a look at the trailer above to get a closer look at Arc Raiders.
Following Battlefield 6 and Arc Raiders, the shooter space gets another jolt in November when Activision’s Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 launches.