ARC Raiders Trios vs Solo Matchmaking Explained: Gear Score Myths and Team-Based Queues

Learn how ARC Raiders matchmaking works: no gear-based lobbies, but solo and squad queues are separated for fair play.

If you've dropped into ARC Raiders and wondered why you're facing off against squads while flying solo, you're not alone. The game's matchmaking system has sparked plenty of questions, especially around gear score and team size. Let's clear the air with verified developer insights and community-tested data so you can deploy with confidence and focus on what really matters: smart extraction.

### The Gear Score Myth: No Equipment-Based Matchmaking

First things first: ARC Raiders does not use gear-based matchmaking at launch. According to Embark Studios, this was a deliberate design choice to preserve the tension and unpredictability that define extraction shooters. What does this mean for you? Your loadout doesn't determine your lobby. Whether you're rocking a starter rifle or legendary gear, you can run into players of any equipment level. Every drop carries the same danger—low-tier scavengers and veteran Raiders alike. The uncertainty about your opponents adds to the adrenaline and the game's signature risk-reward balance.

During development, the devs did test gear-based matchmaking, but they ultimately decided it clashed with the game's core vision of risk and adaptability. So, don't stress about grinding for the best gear just to get fair matches. Your survival depends more on your wits than your weapon.

### The Real Focus: Solo vs Squad Matchmaking

While gear score isn't a factor, ARC Raiders does separate matchmaking based on team size. This ensures solo players aren't constantly crushed by organized groups. Here's how it works: if you queue up solo, you'll primarily face other solo players. If you're in a squad, you'll be matched with similar team sizes—duos with duos, trios with trios. The max squad size is three players per team. This design keeps things fairer for everyone while allowing squads to enjoy coordinated, tactical combat that solo players won't face.

Community feedback on Steam confirms this. One player noted, "The matchmaking prefers to match solo players with other solo players and squads with squads." Another added, "Devs have stated that right now, matchmaking prioritizes party size over everything else. So if you drop in solo, you'll be playing with *almost* entirely other solos." However, some players have reported occasional exceptions. As one commenter explained, "It gives solos weighted matchmaking preference with other solos but will still match you with duos and trios from time to time depending on matchmaking timers." So while the system aims for separation, it may flex to keep queue times reasonable.

### Why Developers Chose This System

The choice to avoid gear-based matchmaking comes down to three guiding principles that Embark Studios has emphasized since beta testing.

1. **Preserving Extraction Tension**: ARC Raiders thrives on unpredictable encounters. Facing stronger players occasionally creates high-stakes moments that make every extraction more rewarding.

2. **Encouraging Player Agency**: Without gear restrictions, you have more freedom to decide how to play. Stealth over strength: avoid better-geared enemies through awareness. Knowledge over numbers: outsmart veterans with clever positioning. Smart risk-taking: extract early if things feel dangerous—or push for bigger loot if you're confident.

3. **Balancing Fairness**: By separating solos and squads, the game ensures that solo players aren't constantly overwhelmed by organized teams, while squads can enjoy coordinated combat without worrying about solo interference.

### Community Reactions and Future Changes

The ARC Raiders community has had plenty to say about this system—mostly positive. Players appreciate developer transparency and the focus on team-size balance instead of punishing players for not grinding high-end gear. As one player put it, "Amazing, thank you!" in response to the explanation.

Will gear-based matchmaking ever come later? Embark Studios has stated that they'll continue to monitor matchmaking metrics post-launch. If gear disparity ever becomes a genuine problem, they may revisit the idea—but only if it benefits overall game health. For now, the system stays as is.

### Strategy Guide: Adapting to ARC Raiders Matchmaking

Knowing how matchmaking works lets you tailor your playstyle for maximum survival and extraction success.

**For Solo Players**: Focus on stealth and map awareness. Take advantage of consistent solo-only lobbies to practice routes and mechanics. Expect duels against skilled players, not squads—so positioning and aim matter most.

**For Squad Players**: Build communication and synergy—other squads will do the same. Coordinate utilities like smokes, ziplines, and shields for tactical advantage. Use your numbers strategically, not recklessly—coordinated pushes win fights.

**Universal Survival Tips**: Sound is everything—use footsteps, shots, and container sounds to track enemies. Plan your extractions—always know your nearest escape route. Assess threats wisely—don't assume someone's weak based on their look; behavior tells you more.

### The Takeaway: Skill Over Gear

ARC Raiders' matchmaking system rewards skill, awareness, and decision-making—not just firepower. By separating solos and squads but keeping gear out of the equation, the game stays true to its extraction shooter DNA, where survival depends on wits, timing, and adaptability, not artificial matchmaking algorithms. When you drop into the Rust Belt, remember: your survival depends on your strategy, not your loadout.