Arc Raiders ditches “mandatory wipes” in favor of player-driven reset system

Arc Raiders is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated extraction games in recent times and with Embark Studio’s latest announcement, it could reel in even more players.

This reveal has given us more insight into how wipes will work — something that both seasoned extraction fanatics and new players alike will be keen to get a breakdown of.

Luckily, there seems to be something for everyone in how Arc Raiders will handle wipes. This is no ‘enforced’ reset, and instead, you can opt in, receiving some special rewards for doing so.

How do Arc Raiders wipes work?

As previously alluded to, Arc Raiders is definitely looking to avoid the extremely ‘hardcore’ nature of Escape From Tarkov by completely removing mandatory wipes, opening it up for more casual players to stick around for longer.

If you’re a little unfamiliar with this mechanic, essentially all of your progress made during a period of time — your items, hideout, and more, gets reset on one of these “wipes” in Escape From Tarkov, making everyone start from scratch.

This is a double-edged sword, with it allowing you to progress once more in conjunction with building your inventory and cash, but it’s yet another time sink that only those who religiously play the game will really want to do.

Embark has instead opted for something called “Projects” which takes wipes to a new realm, also making them optional.

At level 20, you unlock the option to undertake the first Project called Expedition, a substantial in-game task that, once completed, allows you to reset your character. You will lose your level, gear, inventory, and skills, but keep cosmetics, achievements, rankings, and anything tied to real money.

This reset option is linked to an 8-week cycle and you can work on the Expedition Project during this time. If completed by week 8, you can finalize the reset. If not, progress carries over to the next cycle.

While not explicitly stated as to what the specific goodies are for resetting, the reveal does say that there will be permanent unlocks, unique cosmetics, and growing account buffs, all incentivising you to push the button.

Extremely serious extraction fans may look at this and be a little disheartened but it’s clear that the vast majority of Arc Raiders’ playerbase should welcome Projects with open arms, providing the ‘grind’ while also letting them keep their progress if they want.