The term "extraction shooter" has been criticized by former Bungie product manager Chris Sides, who expressed his dislike for the genre label while discussing the mechanics behind games like Escape from Tarkov and Arc Raiders. Sides believes the term lacks clarity, as it defines the genre by a game mechanic rather than its overall experience, making it difficult for players to understand what to expect. He argues that comparing different titles within this label is misleading, as the gameplay mechanics can vary greatly. While some games, like Arena Breakout and Tarkov, fit the mold of extraction shooters, others such as Arc Raiders do not. Sides left Bungie to pursue freelance work and is currently working on a new project. Meanwhile, Marathon's future remains uncertain as it deals with mixed feedback from technical tests.

What are extraction shooters and why is the genre name controversial? nExtraction shooters are a subgenre of shooter games where players must collect resources or objectives and safely exit the game area. The controversy surrounding the name stems from its definition as a mechanic rather than a genre characteristic, leading to ambiguity and confusion among players regarding what gameplay experiences to expect from different titles under this label.n

Extraction shooters have gained popularity with titles like Escape from Tarkov at the forefront, pushing for strategic gameplay where survival hinges on careful resource management and tactical execution. As developers explore this genre, the need for clear terminology becomes evident amidst the evolving landscape of gaming experiences and player expectations.