ARC Raiders from Embark Studios lands at number six on our list. Despite being a multiplayer game in a crowded genre, it really stood out by creating a thrilling and captivating extraction shooter experience.
Embark Studios started developing a cooperative shooter focused on players versus environment, but shifted direction mid-way through to the player versus player versus environment extraction shooter it is now. This change allowed them to really focus on creating the immersive, cinematic experience that defines the game.
It’s rare to find a multiplayer game that’s just as enjoyable to explore as it is to play. The game creates a believable post-apocalyptic world – reminiscent of The Last of Us – with a mix of imposing, concrete structures and reclaiming nature.
What truly stands out is the sound design, which feels like a nod to the studio’s past – many of the developers previously worked on the Battlefield games.
Sound plays a crucial role in giving players information, from hearing a raider nearby signaling for backup to recognizing the distinct electronic noises of an activated ARC machine.
The game’s visuals and design are so effective that it doesn’t rely on a lot of on-screen menus or instructions. Instead, everything the player needs to understand is presented directly within the game world, creating a deeply immersive experience.
Beyond all of that, the core gameplay focuses on finding loot and then escaping with it. The classic risk-versus-reward element of extraction shooters is present, but ARC Raiders strikes a good balance between being challenging and easy to pick up.
It creates a thrilling and enjoyable experience. The gameplay unfolds in unique ways each time, making every raid feel fresh. Sometimes you’ll have slow, careful missions focused on stealth, and other times you’ll be in the middle of fast-paced, intense action.
Adding player-versus-player combat makes the game even more engaging, and it’s home to a really fascinating multiplayer community. You can team up with others, betray those alliances, or simply focus on defeating other players.
It all works together to make for a showcase of true multiplayer immersion.
Push Square’s annual Game of the Year list is determined by votes from our team and frequent writers. We also consider the results of our community’s own Game of the Year poll. Let us know what you think of our picks in the comments!
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2025-12-27 19:07