ARC Raiders Devs Confirm Delaying Release to Avoid GTA VI Launch
It’s no surprise that developers often adjust game release dates to avoid competing with major titles like Grand Theft Auto VI. Even successful narrative-driven games feel the impact of GTA hype, which draws massive attention and sales.
Interestingly, live service online games are regaining popularity, and ARC Raiders is a prime example. The game has already sold over 12 million copies, and despite being session-based, developers remain cautious about release timing. Patrick Söderlund, an executive at Embark Studios, revealed in a podcast with Dean Takahashi that the GTA schedule was a major factor in their release planning.
According to Patrick, Embark Studios actively monitors GTA’s launch timeline and considers it the primary variable affecting when they can release ARC Raiders. They aren’t intimidated by Battlefield 6 or Call of Duty, even deliberately releasing in overlapping windows with these shooters. However, releasing near GTA’s launch would risk being overshadowed, as players collectively focus on the open-world phenomenon.
About ARC Raiders
ARC Raiders is now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The game is an Extraction Shooter PvPvE, where players team up to fight the ARC alien robot forces, collect critical items, and survive until extraction. Players take on the role of resistance fighters protecting humanity, navigating diverse maps ranging from abandoned industrial zones to dense forests. Each area offers unique tactical opportunities, rewarding strategic exploration and combat creativity.
