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Does ARC Raiders Support Cross-Platform Play?

Yes, ARC Raiders supports full cross-platform play across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (both Steam and Epic Games Store). This means that no matter which platform you are playing on, you can join your friends, challenge opponents, and enjoy the game together.

Key Features of Cross-Platform Play

Let’s dive into some of the key features that make cross-platform play possible in ARC Raiders:

1. Unified Matchmaking Pool

One of the main advantages of cross-platform play in ARC Raiders is the unified matchmaking pool. By default, players from all platforms are placed in the same matchmaking system. This means that whether you’re playing on PS5, Xbox, or PC, you will be matched with players from different platforms without any restrictions. It’s an excellent way to reduce wait times and ensures there’s always a wide pool of players for you to face off against.

2. Adding Friends Across Platforms

You can also add friends who play on different platforms. To do so, you will need to use their Embark ID, which follows the format Name#1234. This ID can be found and managed in the game’s social menu. Once you’ve added them, you’ll be able to invite them to your game, regardless of whether they’re playing on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC.

This is particularly helpful if you and your friends have different gaming setups, as you no longer have to worry about platform compatibility when teaming up for a match.

3. Cross-Progression

Another standout feature of ARC Raiders is cross-progression. This means your progress, loot, and character levels are synced across all platforms via your Embark account. If you start playing on PC but later decide to switch to PlayStation, your progress will follow you. All the weapons, gear, and experience you’ve earned remain intact across any platform you play on.

This is a big deal for players who might have a primary platform but want the flexibility to play on others without losing progress. Whether you’re playing on the go or at home, your character's progression stays the same.

4. Cross-Buy (Xbox/PC)

For players on Xbox and PC, there’s also the benefit of cross-buy. If you purchase the digital version of ARC Raiders from the Microsoft Store, you’ll own the game on both Xbox and PC. This is part of the Xbox Play Anywhere feature. So, if you want to switch between playing on your console and your PC, you can do so without purchasing the game again.

However, PlayStation users do not have this feature. If you want to play ARC Raiders on PlayStation, you will need to buy a separate copy for that platform.

Limitations & Concerns with Cross-Platform Play

While cross-platform play is a great feature in ARC Raiders, there are some limitations and concerns that players should be aware of.

1. No Console-Only Crossplay

Currently, there’s no option in ARC Raiders to exclusively play with other console players (PS5 and Xbox), while excluding PC players. If you prefer to play only with console users, you will still be placed in a mixed pool with PC players. This is important to note if you’re someone who prefers to avoid the potential disparities that come with playing against PC users, who often have the advantage of mouse and keyboard controls.

2. Input Advantage

One of the most common concerns about cross-platform play is the potential for input advantage. In ARC Raiders, there’s no input-based matchmaking, meaning console players who use controllers may often find themselves facing off against PC players using a mouse and keyboard. While this doesn’t necessarily guarantee a loss for console players, it can create a competitive imbalance, especially in fast-paced situations where precision is key.

Unfortunately, this issue remains a part of cross-platform play in many games, including ARC Raiders. However, the benefit is that you can still play with friends and other players across all platforms, even if the input devices differ.

3. Disabling Crossplay

For those who want to avoid playing with players from other platforms, there is an option to disable crossplay. You can turn off crossplay in the Gameplay settings of ARC Raiders. However, keep in mind that this comes with a downside. By disabling crossplay, you’ll be limited to matchmaking only within your platform’s pool (e.g., PS5-only or Xbox-only). This can significantly increase queue times, as the pool of available players is smaller. It’s a trade-off between reducing platform disparity and accepting longer wait times.

If you’re someone who wants the best possible matchmaking experience with a diverse pool of players, it’s best to leave crossplay enabled.

Can I Buy ARC Raiders Blueprints at a Low Price?

Yes, if you’re looking to upgrade your gear and want to get your hands on some of the most coveted blueprints in the game, you can buy ARC Raiders blueprints at a low price from trusted sources. Whether you're working on improving your character’s loadout or want to get a head start on crafting powerful equipment, getting blueprints at a good deal can save you a lot of in-game effort and time. Always be cautious and ensure you're using a reliable service to make your purchases.

Cross-Platform Play in ARC Raiders

Cross-platform play in ARC Raiders is a welcome feature that opens up the game to a broader audience and enhances the multiplayer experience. With unified matchmaking, cross-progression, and the ability to play with friends on different platforms, it’s easy to see why this is one of the standout features of the game.

However, it’s important to be aware of the limitations, such as the lack of console-only matchmaking and the potential for input-based advantage when playing against PC users. Ultimately, cross-platform play adds a lot of value to the game, but players need to weigh the pros and cons based on their preferences and playstyle.

For those who are just starting or looking to improve their game, the cross-platform system in ARC Raiders helps to ensure a broad player base, meaning more action and more opportunities to level up. So, if you’re ready to dive in and team up with friends, no matter their platform, ARC Raiders has you covered.