In the saturated landscape of online FPS, few games arouse as much curiosity as ARC Raiders. Developed by Embark Studios, a collective made up of former DICE pillars, this Cooperative TPS with a post-apocalyptic atmosphere offers players the chance to step into the shoes of “raiders”, fighters united to survive in a broken world.
But before its official launch planned on October 30, 2025Embark makes a strong gesture: a free testing phasecalled Server Slam, open to all players on Xbox Series X|S, PS5 and PC. No code required, no pre-order necessary: simply download the version via Steam or the Microsoft Store to immerse yourself in this hostile world.
A world in ruins to explore, between mist, ruins and dangers
Server Slam allows players to discover the map The Dama vast and swampy battlefield, mixing flooded plains, abandoned research stations, oppressive forests and overgrown industrial ruins. All in a heavy, almost organic atmosphere, reminiscent of the heyday of the genre.
This unique map is designed to highlight cooperation, resource management, and strategic improvisation, rather than simple reflex aiming. Something to reassure those who were hoping for a shooter that was more tactical than frenetic.
What you can do in the demo
Far from being a simple technical showcase, this Server Slam offers a real piece of playrich enough to get a clear idea of the gameplay. Here’s what it includes:
- Basic to intermediate weapons and equipment : sufficient to experiment with different approaches, while leaving some mystery for the final version.
- A system of plans to discover : All crafting sheets can be found, although only low-level ones are usable.
- An overview of the Raider Deck : a customization mechanism with a page of unlockable items, to adapt your playing style.
- Crafting stations : workshops for care, weapons and equipment are present, even if their evolution options remain inaccessible at this stage.
A reward for testers: The Server Slammer
Participating in Server Slam is not only about taking advantage of an early demo: it is also an opportunity to unlock an exclusive item. Any player who has connected their Embark ID during this phase will receive the The Server Slammer backpacka cosmetic item that will automatically be available in one’s inventory upon the official release of the game.
This bonus is both a souvenir of the testing phase… and a way to show that you were one of the pioneers.
Xbox Play Anywhere compatibility: one purchase, two platforms
Like a growing number of cross-platform titles, ARC Raiders adopts Xbox Play Anywhere system. This means that by purchasing the game on Xbox Series or PC via the Microsoft Store, you will be able to play it on both media while keeping your saves.
A welcome initiative for nomadic gamers or those who share their time between console and PC, and a way to get even more value out of the investment required: the game is offered at €39.99 for pre-order.
A decisive try for ARC Raiders
By focusing on a free and open testing phase, Embark Studios is sending a clear signal: ARC Raiders is ready. Ready to be discovered, ready to be criticized, ready to convince. And above all, ready to position itself as a serious alternative to the behemoths of the genrefrom Destiny to Warframe.
Server Slam will end October 19leaving players ten days to wait before the official launch. It remains to be seen whether the promise of this cooperative shooter will be kept to the end.