Popular Twitch streamer and 100 Thieves founder Matthew 'Nadeshot' Haag has launched a scathing public critique of the cheating problem plaguing the hit extraction shooter ARC Raiders, describing the experience as 'hell' and claiming the situation is 'worse than peak Call of Duty'.
A Streamer's Frustration Erupts
In a lengthy post on social media platform X on 07 January 2026, the influential gaming personality expressed his deep frustration. Despite declaring ARC Raiders as one of his personal top ten favourite games of all time, Nadeshot detailed an increasingly intolerable situation. "My experience on ARC Raiders over the last week has been hell," he wrote, before clarifying his affection for the core game.
His central complaint focused on the pervasive and disruptive cheating. "I can't get through an entire raid without a Steam profile that is Level 0 or an account that has multiple game and VAC bans on record," he explained. Nadeshot described encounters with seemingly invincible opponents whose highly suspect aim ruined the competitive integrity and enjoyment.
Calling for Developer Action
Nadeshot did not just vent; he directed a series of suggestions towards Embark Studios, the game's developer. His proposals included taking legal action against the sellers of cheat software and enforcing a much stronger anti-cheat system within the game. He acknowledged that not every player might have such extreme experiences, but for a high-profile streamer playing for hours daily, the impact is severe.
"I'm at war and I'm getting absolutely pummelled for eight hours straight every day," he stated, lamenting how hours of looting, crafting, and investment are repeatedly wiped out by cheaters. This sentiment reflects a growing point of discussion within the wider ARC Raiders community, especially as the game's player count continues to rise.
The Broader Impact on Gaming
Nadeshot's comments touch on a chronic issue in competitive online gaming. He mused that one day he might accept that cheat developers outpace game studios, but for now, he vowed to keep complaining. As of now, Embark Studios has not issued a public response to his specific criticisms. The incident highlights the delicate balance developers must strike in fostering a popular, competitive environment while vigilantly policing it against those who seek to undermine fair play.
The outcry from a figure of Nadeshot's stature places significant pressure on the studio to address these concerns promptly, lest the cheating epidemic tarnish the reputation of their otherwise successful title.
