The Extraction Shooter Showdown: ARC Raiders vs Marathon
The world of gaming is abuzz with the latest trend: live multiplayer games, and within that, the extraction shooter genre is gaining traction. Two upcoming titles, ARC Raiders and Marathon, have recently released Closed Alphas, sparking a fascinating debate. In this post, we’ll delve into the contrasting reactions to these games and explore what sets them apart.
A Tale of Two Extraction Shooters
ARC Raiders, developed by Embark Studio, is a traditional extraction shooter with a Fallout-esque concept. Players scavenge a ruined wasteland, harvesting materials and weapons while avoiding or killing hostile robots and other players. The game boasts great visuals, fantastic sound design, and a more traditional extraction experience. No wonder the initial reaction has been overwhelmingly positive.
On the other hand, Marathon, developed by Bungie, has taken a different approach. By ditching some traditional extraction elements, such as custom characters, crafting, and proximity chat, the game aims to be unique. However, this has resulted in a mixed bag, with some players feeling that the game lacks the hardcore elements they crave, while others find it inaccessible.
A Polished vs Unpolished Experience
The Closed Alpha for ARC Raiders seems more substantive and finished, with a more polished experience. In contrast, the Marathon Alpha feels less polished and feature-light. While Bungie claims that it’s still early days for the game, the fact that ARC Raiders is also doing a Closed Alpha and has a more substantial offering raises questions about the development pace.
Expectations and Comparisons
The expectations surrounding these games are vastly different. Marathon has been in development for six years and is Sony’s biggest upcoming live service game. ARC Raiders, on the other hand, has a smaller development team, but Embark Studio has a consistent player count with their other multiplayer game, The Finals.
The reception to these games has been night and day, with ARC Raiders receiving a more positive response. While it’s impossible to predict the future, observing the contrasting reactions, it’s clear that ARC Raiders has had a much better week.
Actionable Insights
For game developers, this showdown serves as a reminder that traditional extraction elements are still highly valued by players. By incorporating these features, games like ARC Raiders can create a more engaging experience.
For players, this highlights the importance of understanding the game’s development stage and the team’s vision. Be cautious of games that promise too much too soon, and be open to trying out different experiences to find what resonates with you.
Conclusion
The extraction shooter genre is heating up, and ARC Raiders and Marathon are leading the charge. While both games have their strengths and weaknesses, ARC Raiders’ more traditional approach and polished experience have garnered a more positive response. As the gaming world continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape.