Embark Studios claims this system allows bloodthirsty, PvP-focused players to be matched against each other.

Arc Raiders has received widespread praise for being calmer than many other extraction shooters, and this design philosophy intentionally extends to its matchmaking system. The game takes player aggression into account and attempts to pair individuals with similar playstyles. This was confirmed by Embark Studios CEO Patrick Söderlund in an interview with GamesBeat.

Söderlund explained that the game is not primarily about shooting other players, even though that option is always present. PvP mainly exists to increase tension. While this means players must constantly pose a threat to one another, the game actively tries to match more peaceful players together. Although matchmaking is largely skill-based, Söderlund detailed the aggression-based component of the system. The game includes a mechanism that matches players based on their inclination toward PvP or PvE. As a result, players who prefer PvE and engage in fewer conflicts are more likely to be paired with others who play in a similar way.

It remains unclear exactly which metrics are tracked and how much weight they carry in matchmaking decisions, but it is notable that such abstract behavioral data is being considered. One could argue that this system might make the game more challenging for aggressive players who rush early to gain an advantage. How the system adapts to this remains uncertain. We doubt that matchmaking adjusts this strictly, but there are currently no clear answers. To prevent exploitation, it may be better that these details remain undisclosed. Many games already use matchmaking systems to group more toxic players together.

Part of what makes a game like Arc Raiders effective is the difficulty of reading other players’ intentions. However, if aggression-based pairing works too efficiently, it could eventually undermine the tension Söderlund described. Only time will tell how this approach will impact the game and the genre as a whole.

Source: PCGamer