Embark Studios has confirmed it is testing a new kernel-level anti-cheat solution for ARC Raiders as the extraction shooter continues struggling with an increasing number of cheaters and exploit abuse across its servers.
While ARC Raiders managed to attract strong attention during its launch period, recent weeks have reportedly seen player frustration rise due to widespread cheating issues. Players have been encountering everything from out-of-bounds exploits to advanced third-party cheat software, with some content creators and streamers openly criticizing the current state of matchmaking and competitive integrity.
The situation has become serious enough that Embark is now moving toward stronger anti-cheat enforcement measures.
Embark Says Kernel-Level Access Is Necessary
According to Embark Studios, the biggest challenge comes from the fact that many modern commercial cheats already operate at the kernel level. Without similar access, anti-cheat systems can struggle to properly detect or monitor the most advanced tools being used by cheaters.
The developer explained that ARC Raiders already uses Easy Anti-Cheat alongside machine-learning systems that continuously analyze player telemetry and gameplay behavior. However, Embark believes additional layers are now required to improve both detection accuracy and response times.
The new solution currently being tested is designed to “sharpen both detection and precision” throughout the game’s environments, including areas such as Speranza and the Rust Belt.
Machine Learning Continues Playing a Major Role
Embark also highlighted the importance of machine-learning detection systems in the ongoing fight against cheating.
Telemetry-based analysis reportedly remains one of the studio’s most effective methods for identifying suspicious behavior patterns. By monitoring player movement, actions, communication habits, and other gameplay data, the system can detect unusual activity that may indicate cheating even before manual reports are submitted.
The developer says it is continuing to update its detection rules and backend enforcement systems in an attempt to catch more sophisticated cheats while reducing false positives.
Accessibility Devices Create Additional Challenges
One of the more controversial parts of the discussion involves accessibility hardware and custom controllers.
Embark acknowledged that some players have experienced false bans while using assistive devices intended for accessibility purposes. According to the studio, distinguishing between legitimate accessibility tools and devices used to gain unfair advantages remains extremely difficult.
Instead of relying solely on hardware detection, Embark says it focuses heavily on intent by analyzing telemetry patterns and player behavior to determine whether someone is attempting to cheat.
The studio is also working together with Anybrain to improve device recognition and better understand how different hardware setups are being used in-game.
Streamers and Content Creators Feeling the Impact
The cheating problem has also started affecting ARC Raiders content creators and streamers, some of whom have openly voiced frustration over the current situation.
Competitive extraction shooters rely heavily on trust between players, and ongoing cheating accusations can quickly damage the experience for casual players and creators alike. Several high-profile streamers have reportedly already reduced playtime or publicly criticized the state of anti-cheat enforcement.
Embark now appears to be treating the issue as a major priority moving forward, especially as maintaining player trust will likely be critical for ARC Raiders’ long-term future.
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