Yes, ARC Raiders offers full crossplay support across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. By default, every platform enters a shared matchmaking system, allowing faster queues and active cross-platform multiplayer sessions. You can add friends through your Embark ID using the in-game Social menu. If you want platform-only matchmaking, you can turn off crossplay, but queue times may be longer.
Quick Answer
Most crossplay questions get a simple yes-or-no answer. This one needs more context. Your experience in ARC Raiders can feel very different depending on whether you play solo queue, squad play console, or PC. After testing both mixed-platform lobbies and platform-only sessions, the gap is more noticeable than many guides mention.
Let’s break down everything you actually need to know.
Is ARC Raiders Crossplay?
Yes. ARC Raiders supports cross-platform multiplayer between PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. All supported platforms share the same player pool, friend system, and matchmaking network through your Embark account.
That matters because ARC Raiders is built around team-based raids, squad survival, and co-op extraction gameplay. A larger player pool means faster matches, healthier servers, and easier friend invites.
Many games split communities by platform. ARC Raiders avoids that issue.
How Crossplay and Matchmaking Work?
Here’s what many players miss. Crossplay is not just random platform mixing. The game uses shared matchmaking that likely considers region, latency, party size, and available players.
Your Embark ID acts as the central account system. That means:
- Friends list stays synced
- Purchases remain attached to your account
- Progression follows you across platforms
- Social menu works on console and PC
When crossplay is active, console and PC players can join the same raid. In live PvP moments, mouse precision can offer faster flick aiming, while controller players rely on aim assist and positioning.
That creates a different feel depending on how you play. Which leads naturally into settings.
How to Enable or Disable Crossplay?
Want more control over your matchmaking experience? ARC Raiders gives you the option.
Turn off crossplay
- Open the main menu
- Go to Settings
- Open Multiplayer or Social
- Find the crossplay option
- Switch it off
Once disabled, you only match with players on your own platform.
- PS5 joins PS5
- Xbox joins Xbox
- PC joins PC
Queue times usually increase, especially in smaller regions or late-night sessions.
Turn it back on
Use the same path and re-enable the setting. Changes normally apply to the next matchmaking session.
From personal testing, console-only lobbies often feel more even in solo queue because input hardware becomes more balanced.
How to Add Friends Across Platforms?
Cross-platform party setup is simple thanks to the Embark system.
Steps to add friends
- Open the Social menu
- Select Add Friend
- Enter their Embark ID
- Send request
- Wait for acceptance
After that, you can create a squad regardless of platform compatibility.
Voice chat and party invites work across systems, which is huge during raids where communication decides whether you extract or lose everything.
Best tip: Ask friends to copy their Embark ID exactly. One wrong character causes failed requests.
Is There Input-Based Matchmaking?
This is where many players get confused.
Embark has not fully confirmed a strict input-only matchmaking mode. That means controller and mouse users may still share lobbies under normal crossplay settings.
In squad play, it feels manageable because teamwork matters more than raw aim. In solo queue, it becomes more noticeable during close-range PvP fights or contested loot zones.
Imagine pushing extraction alone on the console while two coordinated PC players hold high ground angles. That feels rough quickly. If you mainly play solo, disabling crossplay may improve consistency.
Does ARC Raiders Have Cross-Progression?
Yes. Cross progression is built into Embark ID. Your account progress can carry over between supported platforms when logged into the same profile.
That can include:
- Unlocks
- Cosmetic items
- Account progression
- Purchases
- Friend list integration
This is one of the cleaner cross-save systems in multiplayer gaming because you do not need manual transfers. Play on PC one night, continue on PS5 the next.
Is ARC Raiders on Xbox Game Pass?
Right now, ARC Raiders is not included in Xbox Game Pass.
That means:
- No standard Game Pass access
- No confirmed ARC Raiders Xbox Game Pass release date
- Separate purchase required on Xbox Series X|S
Many players ask because multiplayer shooters often enter subscription libraries later. It could happen eventually, but there is no confirmed listing at present. If Game Pass is your priority, keep watching official announcements
ARC Raiders System Requirements, Steam Deck, and Squad Size
Ask before downloading. These are common questions for buyers
ARC Raiders system requirements
Expect a modern mid-range gaming setup:
- 6-core processor
- 16GB RAM
- GTX 1070-class GPU or better
- SSD recommended
- Stable broadband or Ethernet
For smooth 1080p 60 FPS, stronger GPUs help a lot.
ARC Raiders steam deck
Playable, but not ideal.
You may need reduced settings, lower battery expectations, and performance tweaks. If Steam Deck is your main device, expect compromises.
ARC Raiders squad size
Standard squad size is three players.
You can queue:
- Solo
- Duo with fill
- Full trio squad
That structure keeps raids tense without becoming chaotic.
ARC Raiders merch
Official merchandise options remain limited. Community-made items exist, but licensed merch availability changes often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ARC Raiders crossplay between PC and PS5?
Yes. PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S can play together through shared matchmaking.
Can you disable crossplay in ARC Raiders?
Yes. Use the settings menu and turn crossplay off.
Is ARC Raiders free?
No. It is a paid title.
Does ARC Raiders have cross-save?
Yes. Cross progression works through Embark ID.
Is ARC Raiders on mobile?
No native Android or iOS version exists. Some players use remote desktop or mobile streaming methods.
Is ARC Raiders on Game Pass?
Currently, no confirmed Game Pass version is available.
Final Takeaway
So, is ARC Raiders crossplay? Yes, fully. It supports shared multiplayer across PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, with friend invites and cross progression through Embark ID. If you value faster queues and playing with friends, keep it on. If you mainly play solo and want more platform-balanced lobbies, turning it off can be worth testing.
