Trying to join a match in ARC Raiders, but the queue never finishes or the game refuses to connect? That situation can feel frustrating, especially when you want to jump into a squad match or a solo session.
This guide explains why ARC Raiders matchmaking is not working, what causes the issue, and what steps can help restore the connection so you can join matches again.
What Is the ARC Raiders Matchmaking Error?
The ARC Raiders matchmaking error happens when the game client cannot place a player into an online match or lobby. The system normally connects the player to a matchmaking server, checks the player account, then searches the regional player pool for an available match. During this process, the game communicates with backend servers, authentication services, and network routing systems. If any of those connections fail, the matchmaking request stops and the queue may remain stuck.
Players often see the issue on the matchmaking queue screen or party lobby. The queue timer may continue running, or the game may show a connection error while searching for a match.
Common Causes of ARC Raiders Matchmaking Not Working
Sometimes matchmaking problems come from a simple network problem. Other times the cause sits on the server side or inside the game client itself. Understanding the common reasons helps you choose the right fix faster.
Below are the most common causes you should know.
- ARC Raiders server outage or scheduled maintenance
- Weak internet connection or unstable WiFi signal
- Strict NAT type preventing multiplayer connections
- Outdated ARC Raiders game version or missing patch
- Corrupted game files or damaged local cache
- VPN or firewall blocking connection to matchmaking servers
- Crossplay mismatch between PC, PlayStation, and Xbox players
- Regional server delay or a low player pool during queue time
Network latency and packet loss can also slow down matchmaking. When the connection between the player device and the game server becomes unstable, the matchmaking request may fail.
How to Fix ARC Raiders Matchmaking Not Working?
Matchmaking problems usually connect to device settings, game updates, or internet configuration. Still, many players solve the issue by checking a few basic areas such as server status, network stability, and game files. Try the fixes below one by one until matchmaking begins working again.
To resolve this issue efficiently, try the following fixes.
Fix 1 – Check ARC Raiders Server Status
Sometimes the problem comes from the game servers rather than your device. If the ARC Raiders matchmaking server is down, players cannot join matches until the system returns online.
Here are the following steps which help you check ARC Raiders server status.
- Open the official ARC Raiders website or community page
- Look for announcements about server maintenance
- Check social media updates from the developer Embark Studios
- Review player reports on gaming forums or server trackers
- Wait until the servers return to normal operation
If the server is offline, no local fix will solve the issue.
Fix 2 – Restart the Game Client
Sometimes the matchmaking request freezes inside the game session. Restarting the game refreshes the connection between the game client and matchmaking service.
Follow the steps below to easily restart the game client.
- Close ARC Raiders completely
- Exit the game launcher such as Steam or console dashboard
- Wait a few seconds
- Launch the game again
- Try joining matchmaking again
This simple restart often refreshes the player session token.
Fix 3 – Restart Your Router and Modem
Online games depend on stable internet communication between your device and the regional game server. Network congestion can interrupt matchmaking requests.
You can perform the following steps to restart your router and modem.
- Turn off the router and modem
- Wait around 30 seconds
- Turn the modem back on first
- Turn the router back on
- Reconnect your device to the network
This process refreshes your network connection and clears temporary traffic issues.
Fix 4 – Verify or Repair Game Files
Corrupted files can stop the matchmaking system from working correctly. Missing data may prevent the game from connecting to the online session service.
Try these simple steps to quickly verify or repair game files.
- Open the Steam or launcher library
- Locate ARC Raiders in the game list
- Open the game properties or settings menu
- Select the option to verify game files
- Allow the system to repair missing or corrupted files
Console players may need to reinstall the game if file repair tools are unavailable.
Fix 5 – Update ARC Raiders to the Latest Version
An outdated game client may not connect with the current matchmaking servers. Developers often release patches to fix server communication bugs.
Below are the steps that will guide you to update ARC Raiders.
- Open your platform store or game launcher
- Search for ARC Raiders updates
- Download the latest patch if available
- Install the update completely
- Restart the game
Keeping the game updated helps avoid matchmaking compatibility problems.
Fix 6 – Disable VPN or Proxy
Some VPN services change the routing path between your device and the matchmaking server. This may cause authentication failures.
Follow these easy instructions to disable VPN or proxy settings without any confusion.
- Open your VPN application
- Turn off the active connection
- Close the VPN software
- Restart the ARC Raiders game
- Attempt matchmaking again
Direct network routing usually improves multiplayer connectivity.
Fix 7 – Review Crossplay and Party Settings
Cross-platform matchmaking may fail when party members use different settings. For example, crossplay might be disabled for one player while enabled for another.
The following steps will show you how to review crossplay and party settings properly.
- Open the game settings menu
- Navigate to online or multiplayer settings
- Check the crossplay option
- Ensure party members use the same matchmaking region
- Confirm the party leader has a stable connection
- Start matchmaking again
Matching crossplay settings helps the system find compatible players.
Fix 8 – Change DNS or Try a Wired Connection
Some matchmaking problems connect to DNS resolution or unstable wireless signals. A wired ethernet connection often reduces latency and packet loss.
These are the exact steps you need to follow to change DNS settings successfully.
- Open your device network settings
- Locate DNS configuration
- Enter a public DNS such as Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS
- Save the settings
- Restart your network connection
Switching from WiFi to ethernet can also improve matchmaking reliability.
Prevention Tips to Avoid ARC Raiders Matchmaking Errors in the Future
Matchmaking works best when the device, network, and game client stay in good condition. Small habits can help prevent many connection issues before they appear.
Here are some helpful prevention tips you can follow.
- Keep ARC Raiders updated with the newest patches
- Use a wired internet connection when possible
- Restart your router regularly to maintain network stability
- Avoid VPN services during multiplayer gameplay
- Monitor official server maintenance announcements
- Verify game files after a crash or failed update
- Keep crossplay settings consistent when playing with friends
A stable connection and updated software usually keep matchmaking running smoothly.
Conclusion
ARC Raiders matchmaking problems often occur when the game cannot connect to the matchmaking server or regional player pool. Issues such as server downtime, weak internet connections, outdated game patches, corrupted files, or crossplay conflicts can interrupt the matchmaking process. Identifying the exact cause makes troubleshooting easier and faster.
If the issue continues after trying these fixes, contacting ARC Raiders support or the Embark Studios help center may help diagnose deeper account or server issues.
You can also share your experience in the comments and tell other players which fix worked for you. Your feedback might help someone else get back into the match faster.
