Following its first-anniversary "Frozen Path" update, ARC Raiders introduced a limited-time PvE test, allowing players to choose between the original PvPvE and PvE modes. An author reviewing over 1,100 comments collected via video found that most welcomed PvE. Developer Embark Studios currently positions this mode as a test and has not yet committed to making it permanent.
The "Frozen Path" update introduced new ARC enemies, weapons, hideouts, and game mechanics. The subsequent PvE test allowed players to avoid player-versus-player combat, exploring the map and completing missions at their own pace. Some commenters mentioned they had previously left due to PvP but were now willing to return, while others expressed interest in playing with family members.
However, these comments do not represent all players. The author of the feedback collection acknowledged that video platforms might more easily recommend content to those who already prefer PvE. There were also specific complaints in the comments: some mentioned loot being stolen by other players after defeating large enemies, others felt that reward variety was reduced during the test, and some experienced collisions and interference from other players.
If PvE is made available long-term in the future, the author believes developers will need to consider whether progression and inventory should be separate for the two modes, as well as issues like loot distribution, enemy density and difficulty, player collision, and content availability. Online player counts fluctuated before and after the update and test, but concurrent popularity changes cannot be solely attributed to the PvE test.