In a recent interview with GamesBeat, Embark Studios CEO Patrick Söderlund addressed the ongoing controversy regarding the use of AI in their hit extraction shooter, ARC Raiders.
Despite the game's massive success since its October 2025 launch, critics have frequently targeted the studio's use of text-to-speech technology for NPC dialogue and the game's "ping" system.
Söderlund's defense is centered on efficiency and transparency, arguing that the technology is a "production solution, not a creative one" that ultimately benefits the player experience.
Key Points from the Interview
The "Replacement" Myth: Söderlund explicitly stated that AI is not being used to replace artists or voice actors. "We don't use AI to not have to hire people," he told GamesBeat, emphasizing that the studio continues to maintain contractual relationships with human talent.
Faster Content Updates: The primary benefit, according to Embark, is speed. By using AI models trained on consenting actors' voices, the team can update the game—such as adding new item names, locations, or quest descriptions—without needing to schedule weeks of studio recording sessions for every minor patch.
Consent and Royalties: Unlike many controversial "gray market" AI usages, Embark has confirmed that the voice actors involved gave informed consent and receive ongoing royalties for the lines generated by the AI models of their voices.
ARC Raiders vs. Battlefield 6: A Tale of Two Shooters
The AI controversy hasn't seemed to slow down the game's momentum. As we move into 2026, the industry is closely watching the stark difference in player retention between ARC Raiders and its biggest competitor, Battlefield 6.
| Stat | ARC Raiders | Battlefield 6 |
| All-Time Peak (Steam) | 481,966 | 747,440 |
| Current Peak (Jan 2026) | ~439,000 | ~113,000 |
| Player Retention | 91% | 15% |
While Battlefield 6 initially pulled in nearly double the players at launch, it has suffered an 85% drop in its player base due to a poorly received first season and the controversial "Blackwell Fields" map. In contrast, ARC Raiders has stayed remarkably stable, recently surpassing million copies sold across all platforms.
New Features: Aggression-Based Matchmaking
Beyond the AI discussion, Söderlund confirmed a major mechanical update to ARC Raiders: Aggression-Based Matchmaking.
How it works: The system analyzes how prone a player is to engaging in PvP versus PvE.
The Result: "Sweatlords" who shoot on sight are more likely to be placed in lobbies with other aggressive players, while those who prefer looting and cooperating in proximity chat will find themselves in more peaceful, PvE-focused sessions.
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