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Choose ARC Raiders if you want to scavenge, manage risk and try to extract with loot you can use or sell. Choose THE FINALS if you want free-to-play team matches built around arena combat and destructible environments. They share a developer, but they are different kinds of shooters: THE FINALS is an arena shooter, not an extraction shooter.

How the games play

ARC Raiders: collect loot and make it out

ARC Raiders is an online multiplayer extraction adventure set on a lethal future Earth. You head to the surface to scavenge while contending with mechanized ARC enemies and other Raiders. The goal is to extract with valuable loot; back in the underground neighborhood of Speranza, the PlayStation listing describes using quests, traders and crafting to turn those resources into progress and gear upgrades. The official site characterizes the design as a blend of extraction-shooter tension and adventure settings: ARC Raiders official site.

This loop makes a run about more than winning a fight: what you find matters only if you can bring it back. PlayStation lists solo play and squads of two or three, but solo does not mean playing in isolation from other Raiders. See the PlayStation ARC Raiders page for its description of the game and supported group sizes.

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THE FINALS: fight over objectives in changing arenas

THE FINALS is a free-to-play, fast-paced, physics-driven first-person arena shooter presented as a combat game show. Teams fight in destructible arenas, so the environment can become part of the action. Its Steam listing describes online PvP, online co-op and cross-platform multiplayer. The emphasis is on competition and adapting to arena combat—not extracting scavenged resources. Check the THE FINALS Steam listing for the current store description.

#1 Best Overall
ARC Raiders Deluxe - PC Steam [Online Game Code]
  • ARC Raiders Deluxe Edition includes the base game and the following content: The Wanderer Set, including the following cosmetic items: “Valente” Outfit" “Pathfinder” Backpack,“Blanket Roll” Backpack Attachment.
  • Plus: Character Cosmetic, Finger Gun Rapid Fire Emote, Cowboy Scrappy Body Type and Skin, 2 400 Raider Tokens.

Which one fits your preferences?

  • Pick ARC Raiders if exploration, scavenging, crafting and the tension of deciding when to leave with what you have sound appealing. Its solo option is useful if you sometimes play alone, while the presence of other Raiders means a run can still involve player threats.
  • Pick THE FINALS if you prefer team-based arena matches, quick access to shooter competition and destruction that changes the setting during combat. Steam lists it as free-to-play; that does not establish that every optional in-game item or edition is free.
  • Try both if both loops appeal and you have access to a supported platform. THE FINALS is free-to-play on Steam, while ARC Raiders is available on PC and consoles. Check the live platform store for your region’s price and edition before buying.

At a glance

What differs ARC Raiders THE FINALS
Main activity Scavenge, face machine and player threats, extract loot, then sell or use it. Compete in team arena matches with destructible environments.
How risk shapes play Survival and the decision to extract with resources give a run its stakes. Match-based action centers on fights and adapting to changing arenas.
Progression described by the cited listings PlayStation describes quests, traders, crafting and gear upgrades. The Steam description focuses on teams, arenas and competition.
Cost and availability Released on PC and consoles; current regional price and editions depend on the store listing. Listed as free-to-play on Steam; optional items or editions may have a cost.
Social play The official site describes cross-platform social play on PlayStation, Xbox and PC; PlayStation lists solo or groups of two or three. Steam lists online PvP, online co-op and cross-platform multiplayer.

For ARC Raiders cross-platform details, see the official site; group sizes are described on the PlayStation listing. THE FINALS features above are from its Steam listing.

Release dates and dated availability

ARC Raiders launched globally on PC and consoles on October 30, 2025, according to Nexon’s launch announcement. THE FINALS released on December 7, 2023, according to its Steam listing.

On October 11, 2026, the official ARC Raiders site listed the Frozen Trail update as live from October 8 and a free-play window running October 8–12, 2026. That window ended on October 12, so it should not be treated as a current offer. Event schedules and store terms can change; consult the official ARC Raiders site for live information.

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What this comparison can—and cannot—tell you

The official descriptions establish a clear difference in structure: ARC Raiders is built around extraction and carrying resources home, while THE FINALS is built around arena competition and environmental destruction. They do not establish which game has better gunplay, balance, matchmaking, performance or community health. Those are separate questions and can vary with updates and individual experience.

Best Value
ARC Raiders Video Game Stickers Ideal for Cars Laptop Skateboard Wall Décor Flask UV and Weather Resistant (C 3-Pack, 3" in)
  • ARC Raiders–Inspired Design: Bold, high-quality graphics with vibrant colors that capture the iconic ARC Raiders aesthetic.
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  • UV & Weather Resistant: Fade-proof, waterproof, and scratch-resistant—perfect for indoor and outdoor applications.
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Rank #4
ARK: Survival Evolved - Nintendo Switch
  • Capture and Tame Dinosaurs: Discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures on the island, finding ways to tame them into useful additions for your tribe's dyno herd
  • Survive Above All: Hunger, thirst, basic safety, and protecting yourself from the weather are all part of the game
  • Harvest, Hunt and Build: Cut down trees and turn them into a basic home, which you can quickly expand into a Jurassic estate. Hunt for meat, scavenge for plants (or start your own garden!)
  • Customize Everything: An extensive crafting system invites you to mix and match materials scavenged from the island, while also modifying the colors, textures, shapes, and styles
  • Explore the Island: Solve the mystery of The ARK as you explore this massive island, discovering Explorer's Notebooks (filled with clues!) throughout

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.