Overview
- Embark Studios announced a limited PvE-only matchmaking toggle that will run from October 13–20, 2026 and let players choose PvE sessions instead of the standard PvPvE matches.
- During the test players will deal zero player-to-player damage, solos duos and trios will share PvE sessions, several high-tension conditions (Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate and Frigate) will be excluded, and overall loot value will be reduced to account for lower risk.
- The studio said players’ PvPvE matchmaking ratings will not change when they play PvE and that the toggle is temporary with the setting removed at the end of the week unless telemetry and feedback justify further action.
- Embark warned the toggle could blunt the core tension that defines extraction shooters and said it is watching for side effects on the in-game economy and matchmaking queues as players shift between pools.
- The test responds to developer data showing a community split — about 37% friendly-coop, 34% pure PvP and 27% mixed players with 51% expressing interest in a dedicated PvE option — and follows a wider genre trend of adding PvE choices like those planned for Marathon.