The Evolution of Arc Raiders: How a Shift in Business Model Transformed the Game

Arc Raiders, developed by Embark, underwent significant changes after moving away from the free-to-play model in 2024. This shift shed light on the game’s development process, making it “drastically easier” for the Swedish studio to design. By stepping away from the pressure to convert players into paying customers, Arc Raiders took on a new direction.

The decision to move away from the free-to-play model was a pivotal moment for the game, as revealed in a behind-the-scenes development video shared by GamesIndustry.biz. Embark’s previous title, The Finals, was free-to-play, and Arc Raiders was initially planned to follow suit. However, design director Virgil Watkins explained in the video that the free-to-play approach made it challenging to “respect the player’s time” when designing the gameplay mechanics of Arc Raiders.

Watkins highlighted the differences in game design between free-to-play and paid models, stating that in free-to-play games, there is a need to create stickier gameplay experiences that encourage prolonged engagement and spending. This often leads to mechanics that may not necessarily prioritize the player’s time.

With the decision to charge upfront for Arc Raiders, the development team at Embark was able to reevaluate and refine various aspects of the game. Watkins mentioned changes to crafting mechanics, removing timers and balancing resource requirements to align effort with outcomes more effectively.

Despite the shift to a paid model, Arc Raiders still retained elements common in free-to-play games, such as resource grinding and microtransactions. The balance between monetization and player experience remained a key focus for the team.

As Embark prepares for the first Arc Raiders expedition, players can expect a unique gameplay feature that allows them to reset their progression and embark on a new journey. The expedition system offers rewards and incentives for starting afresh, adding a layer of prestige and challenge to the game’s live service model.

The decision to transition Arc Raiders from free-to-play to a premium release posed challenges in finding non-predatory monetization strategies. The team continues to explore ways to monetize the game while maintaining a fair and enjoyable experience for players.

Overall, the evolution of Arc Raiders reflects the changing landscape of game development and monetization models. By adapting to new approaches and player expectations, the game aims to provide a compelling experience for players while navigating the complexities of the modern gaming industry.