Over One Million ARC Raiders Players Reset Their Accounts, Says Embark Studios
More than one million players of the hit extraction shooter ARC Raiders chose to wipe their game progress during the title’s first “Expedition Project,” developer Embark Studios has revealed.
The feature, introduced in late December, gave players the option to reset their accounts in exchange for special in-game benefits and a refreshed playthrough. While the mechanic is completely optional, it is designed to return every two to three months as part of the game’s evolving progression system.
According to Embark, just over one million players completed the first Expedition. With ARC Raiders estimated to have sold around 12 million copies since its launch in October 2025, the figure represents roughly eight percent of the player base.
A bold experiment in progression
ARC Raiders quickly rose to the top of the extraction shooter genre following its release, earning industry awards and massive visibility across streaming platforms and social media. The Expedition Project marked the game’s first major progression experiment.
To complete the challenge, players had to collect specific resources to build an “escape caravan,” allowing them to leave the game’s main safe zone and start over with a new character. Those who finished were rewarded with gameplay boosts to help on their next run.
However, feedback from players revealed that the process was demanding, particularly the final stage, which required users to accumulate five million in-game credits to unlock all five bonus skill points.
Embark admitted the requirement proved controversial. Speaking in a recent interview, the studio said the goal was intended to be “aspirational,” but many players felt pressured to complete it in order to remain competitive.
Changes coming after feedback
The developer confirmed that only about 35 to 40 percent of players who attempted the Expedition earned the full set of skill points. In response, the team says it is reviewing data from the rollout and exploring ways to improve future Expeditions.
Embark stated it is assessing player behavior, progression pacing, and reward structures to ensure upcoming iterations feel more balanced and accessible.
Despite the mixed reactions, the studio considers the first Expedition a learning experience and plans to refine the system ahead of the next cycle.
