A developer at Embark Studios has clarified how the so-called aggression-based matchmaking works in ARC Raiders, addressing the topic often referred to as ARC Raiders how player matchmaking works within the community discussion.
“Matchmaking doesn’t depend upon skill or gear score”, design lead Virgil Watkins said. It depends upon how much people are doing PvP versus PvE and balances the match accordingly. Players who are avoiding PvP are less likely to be matched with very aggressive players, but it doesn’t go entirely separate ways. Here is how Matchmaking Works in ARC Raiders:
- Matchmaking is weighted, not binary PvP-only or PvE-only.
- No skill-based or gear-based matchmaking is used.
- The system tracks actions like who shoots first or deals damage.
- Player intent is not evaluated, only outcomes.
- The system will continue to be adjusted based on match health and feedback.
From previous statements made by CEO Patrick Söderlund, the approach being taken is indeed aggression-based. Although Watkins also emphasized that there is no true “opt-out” from PvP combat for players. You can affect your experience in your lobby, but you are going to encounter mixed playstyles anyway.
Embark has stated that they will continue to watch the response of the community and improve the system accordingly. This is in addition to the efforts they already make regarding issues of cheating and match quality.