arc raiders

ARC Raiders Server Slam: What Players Can Expect Ahead of the Game’s October 30 Launch

Key Takeaways

  • ARC Raiders’ Server Slam runs from October 17–19 and will be completely free-to-play.
  • Players can explore the Dam Battlegrounds map, take early quests, and test weapons, gear, and crafting systems.
  • Progress won’t carry over to launch, but participants will earn the exclusive “Server Slammer” backpack.

A Final Test Before Launch

Ahead of its full release on October 30, 2025, ARC Raiders is opening its doors to everyone with a Server Slam from October 17 to 19. The event will give players a comprehensive preview of the game’s survival mechanics, combat systems, and world design — all completely free, with no access codes required.

In a detailed blog post, developer Embark Studios outlined what players can expect during the test, including the first playable map, early versions of trading and crafting systems, and encounters with the game’s menacing ARC machines.

Explore the Dam Battlegrounds

The Dam Battlegrounds, the first map featured in the Server Slam, is a hauntingly atmospheric stretch of the Rust Belt — filled with flooded lowlands, decaying research stations, and mist-covered swamps.

Players can tackle the environment solo or squad up with friends to survive against dynamic challenges like Electromagnetic Storms, Night Raids, and even a rumored appearance by “the Queen.”

Embark Studios describes this map as the perfect introduction to ARC Raiders’ world: a place where exploration meets danger, and every decision counts.

Trading, Quests, and Early Game Systems

Set in Speranza, the central hub of the Rust Belt, players will meet traders with their own agendas and missions. During the Server Slam, only early-stage quests will be available, offering glimpses into the broader narrative set to unfold at launch.

Several game systems will also be partially accessible:

  • Weapons and Gear: Players can test early and mid-tier equipment.
  • Blueprints: All blueprints can be found, but high-tier ones can’t yet be crafted.
  • Raider Decks: Only one page of rewards will be unlockable during the test.
  • Workshops: Basic crafting stations (Weapon, Equipment, and Medical) will be active, though upgrades are locked for now.

Other advanced systems like Projects, Trials, and the Codex will be visible in-game but inactive until launch.

Facing the ARC

The game’s AI-driven machines — collectively known as the ARC — are designed to hunt players in unpredictable ways. From the fast-moving Wasps to the explosive Ticks and the hulking Bastions, each enemy type offers a unique combat challenge.

Players are advised to listen closely for the audio cues that hint at nearby threats — a low hum, metallic skittering, or a sudden whine of charging weapons could mean danger is seconds away.

Earn Rewards and Prepare for the Fight

While progress made during the Server Slam won’t carry over to launch, players who participate will receive an exclusive cosmetic reward: the Server Slammer Backpack. To claim it at launch, players must link the same Embark ID used during the test.

In addition, daily Feats and Cred systems will give players a taste of ARC Raiders’ reward loops. Completing in-game challenges will earn Cred, which can be spent on Raider Decks — some free, some premium, but none offering pay-to-win advantages.

A Step Into the Rust Belt

For newcomers, the Server Slam offers a perfect introduction to ARC Raiders’ high-stakes survival gameplay. For returning testers, it’s a chance to revisit the evolving systems and help Embark Studios fine-tune performance ahead of release.

As Embark puts it:

“This is your chance to experience ARC Raiders — to test, fight, and survive before the full game launches.”

The Server Slam runs October 17–19, completely free for all players, with the full game launching October 30, 2025.

Join the fight. Test your instincts. And prepare for the chaos of the Rust Belt.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of GameDegen.com. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. GameDegen.com is not responsible for any financial losses.

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