ARC Raiders for Windows: Download Guide, Screenshots & Tips

ARC Raiders is a free-to-play third-person PvPvE extraction shooter from Embark Studios, the developers behind THE FINALS.

Set on a post-apocalyptic Earth, players become “Raiders” fighting against the mysterious ARC machines while competing with other players for valuable resources.

The game launched on October 30, 2025, and quickly gained popularity, topping Steam charts with over 350,000 concurrent players.

However, the launch period saw typical server strain and technical issues that the developers have been actively addressing through hotfixes and updates.

Built on Unreal Engine 5, ARC Raiders features a vibrant “post-post-apocalypse” aesthetic set in a reimagined Italy, with four distinct maps offering varied tactical environments for extraction missions.

If you enjoy tactical shooter gameplay with PvPvE elements and progression-based looting, ARC Raiders offers a fresh take on the extraction shooter genre with the polish expected from Embark Studios.

This guide covers how to install it on Windows, its key features, and essential beginner tips for surviving your first raids against both ARC machines and rival players.

Have questions or your own strategies to share? Leave a comment below or contact us.

Download and install ARC Raiders on PC

ARC Raiders is available for free on PC through Steam and Epic Games Store. Here’s how to install it:

1. Method: Steam
   1. Open the store page: ARC Raiders on Steam.
   2. Click Play Game to add it to your library.
   3. In your Steam Library, click Install and select your preferred drive.
   4. Wait for the download to complete (approximately 33 GB).
   5. Launch the game from your Library and begin your first raid.
2. Method: Epic Games Store
   1. Open the Epic Games Store application or website.
   2. Search for “ARC Raiders” in the store.
   3. Click Get to add the game to your library.
   4. Open your Epic Games Library and click Install next to ARC Raiders.
   5. Once installed, click Launch to start playing.

Quick Tip: 💡 The game features full cross-platform play between PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, so you can team up with friends regardless of their platform.

Get ARC Raiders on Steam | Get ARC Raiders on Epic Games

What is ARC Raiders?

ARC Raiders is a free-to-play tactical third-person shooter that blends PvP and PvE elements in an extraction format. Players drop into one of four maps as “Raiders,” tasked with completing objectives, gathering resources, and surviving encounters with both hostile ARC machines and other player teams.

The core gameplay loop involves selecting a mission, dropping into the map with your squad, working toward your objectives while managing threats from both AI-controlled ARC enemies and rival Raiders, then successfully extracting with your loot. Extracted resources are used to upgrade your gear, weapons, and personal hideout.

Unlike some extraction shooters, ARC Raiders emphasizes movement and verticality, with grappling hooks and other mobility tools that create dynamic combat encounters. The game also features a evolving content roadmap with new maps, enemies, and seasonal updates planned throughout 2026.

Key Features

• PvPvE Extraction Gameplay: Experience tense tactical combat against both AI-controlled ARC machines and rival player teams in dynamic match environments.
• Cross-Platform Play: Full support for playing with friends on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S with shared progression.
• Hideout Progression: Build and upgrade your personal hideout between matches, unlocking new capabilities and cosmetic options.
• Movement-Focused Combat: Utilize grappling hooks and advanced movement mechanics to gain tactical advantages in combat encounters.
• Seasonal Content Roadmap: Regular updates including new maps like “Stella Montis” in November and winter-themed content in December 2025.

Why play on Windows?

Playing on PC provides the ideal environment for ARC Raiders’ precise third-person combat and tactical gameplay. The mouse and keyboard controls offer superior aiming accuracy, while Windows ensures optimal performance for the Unreal Engine 5 graphics across a wide range of hardware configurations.

Tips for PC beginners

1. Prioritize Survival Over Kills: Your main goal is successful extraction, not maximum kills. Sometimes avoiding combat with other players is the smartest strategy for preserving your loot.
2. Learn ARC Enemy Patterns: Different ARC machines have distinct attack patterns and weak points. Learning these will help you conserve ammunition and survive encounters more efficiently.
3. Use the Environment: Take advantage of verticality and cover. The grappling hook allows access to high ground that can provide tactical advantages in both PvE and PvP situations.
4. Communicate with Your Squad: Use ping systems and voice chat to coordinate with teammates. Teamwork is essential for handling both ARC threats and enemy Raiders.
5. Manage Your Extraction Timing: Don’t wait until the last moment to head for extraction. Plan your route early and be aware that extraction points often become hotspots for ambushes.

ARC Raiders Gameplay Screenshots

ARC Raiders Beginner’s Guide Video

Watch a video full of tips to get you started including how to survive your first encounters and gather resources;

ARC Raiders PC Requirements

Minimum:

• OS: Windows 10 64-bit
• CPU: Intel Core i5-6600K / AMD Ryzen 5 1600
• RAM: 8 GB
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 580
• DirectX: Version 12
• Storage: 33 GB available space

Recommended:

• OS: Windows 10 64-bit or newer
• CPU: Intel Core i7-9700K / AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
• RAM: 16 GB
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 / AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT
• DirectX: Version 12
• Storage: 33 GB available space (SSD recommended)

ARC Raiders on Windows FAQ

• Is it really free to play? Yes, ARC Raiders is completely free to download and play with optional cosmetic purchases and battle passes.
• What are the current launch issues? Some players have reported server connectivity problems and occasional crashes, which the developers are actively addressing through patches and hotfixes.
• Is there cross-progression? Yes, your progress carries over between PC and console platforms through your Embark account.
• How often will new content be added? The developers have outlined a 2025 content roadmap with major updates planned for November and December, including new maps and enemies.
• Can I play solo? While designed for squad play, solo queue is available, though you’ll be matched against teams in some game modes.

Support and Community

• Steam Discussions
• ARC Raiders on Reddit
• Embark Studios Support

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