Arc Raiders is coming to PS5, bringing an exciting new extraction shooter experience to PlayStation players. If you’re wondering about this highly anticipated game from Embark Studios (the creators of The Finals), you’ve come to the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about Arc Raiders on PS5, including release date, pricing, gameplay features, and much more.
Key Takeaways
- Arc Raiders launches on PS5 on February 30, 2026
- Standard Edition costs $39.99, Deluxe Edition costs $59.99
- Full cross-play support across PS5, Xbox, and PC
- Not free-to-play – requires purchase and PS Plus for online play
- Features both PvE combat against machines and PvP elements
- No physical copy confirmed yet – digital only at launch
- Performance optimized for PS5 with enhanced features on PS5 Pro
What is Arc Raiders?
Arc Raiders is a multiplayer extraction adventure set in a future Earth ravaged by mysterious mechanical threats known as ARC. As a Raider, you’ll explore the dangerous surface world and the underground society of Speranza. The game blends extraction shooter tension with adventure elements, creating a unique experience that’s both challenging and rewarding.
In Arc Raiders, you’ll scavenge for valuable resources, craft and upgrade gear, and face off against both deadly machines and other players. The game can be played solo or in teams of up to three players, offering flexibility for different playstyles.
Arc Raiders PS5 Release Date and Price
Arc Raiders will launch on PS5 on February 30, 2026, the same day as its release on Xbox Series X|S and PC. The game is not free-to-play, so you’ll need to purchase it to play.
There are two editions available:
- Standard Edition: $39.99
- Deluxe Edition: $59.99
The Deluxe Edition includes additional cosmetic items like the Astro Bundle and other exclusive content. Regional pricing may vary, so check your local PlayStation Store for exact prices in your area.
Does Arc Raiders Require PS Plus?
Yes, you’ll need an active PlayStation Plus subscription to play Arc Raiders online. Since the game is not free-to-play, Sony requires PS Plus for online multiplayer functionality. The game itself won’t be available on PlayStation Plus at launch, so you’ll need to purchase it separately.
Arc Raiders PS5 Performance and Features
Arc Raiders has been optimized to take advantage of the PS5’s hardware capabilities. Here’s what you can expect:
- DualSense controller support with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers
- HDR support for enhanced visual quality
- Fast loading times thanks to the PS5’s SSD
- Dynamic resolution scaling for stable performance
If you have a PS5 Pro, you’ll get even better performance with Epic Quality settings and dynamic resolution ranging from 720p to 2160p (4K). The base PS5 will run at High Quality with dynamic resolution from 720p to 1600p.
Cross-Play and Cross-Progression
Arc Raiders supports full cross-play across all platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This means you can play with friends regardless of their platform. However, there are some important details to note:
- Cross-play can be toggled in the game settings
- If you disable cross-play, you’ll only match with players on the same platform (PS5 with PS5, etc.)
- There’s no option to exclude only PC players while keeping console cross-play
Cross-progression is also available through your Embark ID. This means:
- You can carry your progress across platforms
- You’ll need to purchase the game separately on each platform
- Your items, currency, and unlocks will transfer when using the same Embark account
Gameplay Features
Arc Raiders offers a rich gameplay experience with several key features:
World Exploration
The game features four distinct maps at launch, with more planned for future updates. Each map has evolving conditions including changing weather, enemy placements, and mechanics that ensure no two play sessions feel the same.
Combat System
You’ll face various ARC machines, from small drones to massive mechanical giants. Each enemy type has unique strengths and weaknesses, requiring different strategies to defeat. Combat also includes PvP elements as you compete with other Raiders for resources.
Crafting and Progression
- Craft weapons, gadgets, and gear from scavenged materials
- Upgrade your workshop stations to unlock advanced crafting options
- Three-path skill tree: Survival, Mobility, and Conditioning
- Complete quests for Traders to earn rewards and learn more about the world
Weapons and Equipment
Arc Raiders offers a variety of weapons and equipment:
- Firearms including SMGs, rifles, shotguns, railguns, and energy weapons
- Tactical options like grenades, traps, and ziplines
- Augments that provide additional gameplay perks and inventory slots
Will Arc Raiders Have a PS5 Physical Copy?
As of now, Embark Studios has not confirmed whether Arc Raiders will have a physical disc release for PS5. Current listings only show digital editions on the PlayStation Store. A physical edition might be considered later depending on the game’s reception at launch, but for now, it’s digital-only.
Is Arc Raiders Coming to PS4?
No, Arc Raiders will not be available on PS4 or Xbox One. Embark Studios is focusing on modern hardware (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) to ensure higher visual fidelity, better performance, and large-scale world rendering. The game requires the power of current-gen consoles to deliver the intended experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arc Raiders free-to-play on PS5?
No, Arc Raiders is not free-to-play. It’s a premium title that costs $39.99 for the Standard Edition and $59.99 for the Deluxe Edition. You’ll need to purchase the game from the PlayStation Store to play it.
Will Arc Raiders be on PS4?
No, Arc Raiders will not be available on PS4. The game is being developed exclusively for current-generation platforms including PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This allows the developers to create a more visually impressive and technically advanced experience.
Does Arc Raiders support cross-play on PS5?
Yes, Arc Raiders supports full cross-play across all platforms including PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. You can play with friends regardless of their platform, though you can disable cross-play in settings if you prefer to match only with other PS5 players.
Will Arc Raiders be on PlayStation Plus?
Arc Raiders will not be available on PlayStation Plus at launch. Since it’s a premium title rather than a free-to-play game, you’ll need to purchase it separately from the PlayStation Store. You will, however, need an active PS Plus subscription to play online.
What’s the difference between Standard and Deluxe Edition?
The Standard Edition includes the base game for $39.99. The Deluxe Edition costs $59.99 and includes additional cosmetic items like the Astro Bundle and other exclusive content. Both editions include the Lucky Duck Bundle if you pre-order.
Will there be a physical copy of Arc Raiders?
As of now, Embark Studios has not confirmed a physical disc release for Arc Raiders on PS5. The game is currently only available for digital purchase through the PlayStation Store. A physical edition might be considered in the future based on the game’s performance.
Do I need PS Plus to play Arc Raiders on PS5?
Yes, you need an active PlayStation Plus subscription to play Arc Raiders online. Since the game is not free-to-play, Sony requires PS Plus for online multiplayer functionality. The subscription is necessary for all online features including co-op play with friends.
Conclusion
Arc Raiders is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the PS5’s lineup of games. With its unique blend of extraction shooter mechanics, cross-play support, and impressive visuals, it offers something fresh for PlayStation players. The February 30, 2026 release date is just around the corner, so now’s the time to decide if you want to join the world of Speranza.
Whether you’re a fan of extraction shooters or looking for a new multiplayer experience, Arc Raiders on PS5 promises to deliver hours of engaging gameplay. Will you be picking up a copy when it launches? Let us know in the comments below!
