Embark Studios is not messing around as they have officially opened up preorders for ARC Raiders and, even better, confirmed a massive, global Server Slam event for the middle of October.
Get ready to clear your schedule because the early access window for this extraction shooter is finally happening.
ARC Raiders Preorder
The full launch is locked for October 30, 2025. The purpose of the Server Slam is clear: push the infrastructure to its limits before launch day. For us, it is a hands-on opportunity to see how the systems hold up.
Development Details and the Server Slam Rundown
Let us get into the details. First up, preorders: Standard, Deluxe, and the Lucky Duck Bundle.
There are two editions available now:
- Standard Edition at 39.99 dollars
- Deluxe Edition at 59.99 dollars.
Either one will get you the Lucky Duck Bundle at launch. That bundle includes the Golden Rubber Duck backpack charm and the Hatchling backpack. It is all cosmetic, but it is hard to say no to a golden duck.
The Deluxe Edition brings more to the table. It includes the base game, the Wanderer Cosmetic Pack (with the Valente Legendary Outfit, Pathfinder Backpack, and Blanket Roll Backpack Attachment), the Astro Cosmetic Pack (featuring the G-suit Legendary Outfit), the Finger Gun Rapid Fire Emote, the Scrappy Skin, and 2,400 Raider Tokens.
Raider Tokens are the in-game currency used to buy cosmetic items like outfits, charms, and decks. If you want full customization options from the start, this is the one to get. Preorder bonuses will disappear once the game launches.
ARC Raiders Server Slam Event
Mark your calendar. The Server Slam is happening from October 17 to 19, with no registration needed. Just download and play on your preferred platform. It is open to everyone on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, Steam, and the Epic Games Store. It is a real test of the game’s cross-platform and network stability.
The test will feature the Dam Battlegrounds map and will include a full look at core mechanics. That means players can explore the progression system, try crafting, and jump into some early quests. This is where we start seeing the full gameplay loop: collect materials, craft weapons, gear up, and level your Raider.
Embark Studios is taking this event seriously. The team is aiming to make sure launch day goes smoothly and that every player gets a polished, balanced experience. That kind of preparation is exactly what live service games need to succeed.
Extraction Mechanics and Platform Reach
Quick overview for newcomers: ARC Raiders is a multiplayer extraction shooter set on a ruined future Earth. It is third-person, blends PvE and PvP, and supports solo play or squads of up to three. The main loop revolves around surviving ARC machines on the surface, gathering loot, and retreating to the underground city of Speranza to craft and upgrade gear.
The threats are not limited to machines. Other Raiders can hear your fights and decide to ambush you to take your loot. This blend of PvE and PvP adds tension to every run.
Fitting the Extraction Mold
Extraction shooters are everywhere right now. ARC Raiders joins a crowded field that includes recent hits like Helldivers 2 and The Cycle: Frontier. The formula is clear: leave the safe zone, risk everything in the field, and bring your loot back home. ARC Raiders builds on that with four launch maps, dynamic conditions, and a deep customization system.
Players will have three skill trees (Survival, Mobility, Conditioning) to shape their Raider’s style. The crafting system lets you modify recovered parts and ARC machine components into new weapons. Runs are meant to feel different every time.
Building the Community Hype
This open test is a chance to start building the ARC Raiders community. With shared quests, progression, and competitive trials, the event helps lay the groundwork for day-one engagement. Leaderboards will give hardcore players something to chase.
If the event runs well, Embark could be in a strong position for launch. October 17 is more than just a test. It is the real start of the fight.