Embark Studios has switched on a matchmaking optimisation update for its extraction shooter Arc Raiders, aiming to improve how the game pairs players together in matches. The developer has warned that, as a side effect, some players may notice longer queue times than they are used to, explaining that the matchmaking system is now working harder to find better-quality matches rather than simply the fastest ones.

Beyond confirming the change is live and flagging the potential for extended wait times, the article (largely obscured by site navigation content) does not provide further specifics on the scale of the queue increases, which platforms or regions are affected, or a timeline for further adjustments. Embark's framing suggests the trade-off is intentional, prioritising matchmaking quality over speed.