Active Matter: New Extraction Shooter Adventure from the War Thunder Creators

By Kilian Binder Gaming News
11 September 2025 no comments

Active Matter is the latest project from Gaijin, best known for their game War Thunder. Their new game combines elements of PvPvE, PvE and PvP modes in an explosive multiverse where a mysterious substance called “Active Matter” bends space and time.

Active Matter features realistic weapons, quantum anomalies, time loops and nerve-racking extraction raids. In this article we cover everything you need to know about the game – from gameplay to editions to release.

Gameplay & Mechanics of Active Matter

Each player is trapped in a time loop, meaning when you die you are sent back to the same point. In some zones the Active Matter concentration is very high, resulting in many anomalies but also better loot. Before your raids you choose your loadout. During the raid you collect Active Matter, loot and weapons, but if you die without securing anything, you lose it all – the classic extraction shooter system.

The game will feature more than 60 different weapons ranging from pistols such as the Makarov to assault rifles, sniper rifles and machine guns. Weapons can also be customized to your playstyle. For melee combat there are hammers, axes, spears and of course knives. You’ll also find familiar gear like backpacks, helmets and more, similar to other games.

But the game also has its own twist with various anomalies. These anomalies in Active Matter warp space and time, such as gravitational distortions that let you walk on ceilings. There are also environmental anomalies like ball lightning or temporary effects like damage boosts; some can even help you against other players. You’ll also encounter SCP-like creatures in the world.

The game has several different modes. The main ones are the extraction raids, which you can play alone or in small groups. Your goal is to collect Active Matter and loot, survive and escape. Active Matter also offers a pure PvE mode, where you focus only on environmental dangers and enemies since no other players compete with you.

There is also a pure PvP mode, focused solely on battles against other players. This mode includes special maps like “Nexus” where players fight over Active Matter sources without losing gear on death.

Early Access, Editions, Pre-Orders, Release & Platforms

Early Access for Active Matter began on September 9, 2025. In Early Access you’ll find all modes, maps and missions, but some features are still in development. This version is only available on PC via the Gaijin Store. The Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series versions will arrive in 2026.

Active Matter comes in several editions. The Standard Edition gives you 25,000 Credits, 300 x “Crystallised Active Matter”, 10 x Isolated Raid Pass and various weapons and gear for €29.99. The Advanced Edition offers 60,000 Credits, 1,300 x “Crystallised Active Matter”, 25 x Isolated Raid Pass, 1 x storage expansion and 1 x Replicator query expansion for €49.98.

The Premium Edition includes 135,000 Credits, 38,000 x “Crystallised Active Matter”, 50 x Isolated Raid Pass, 3 x storage expansions, 2 x Replicator query expansions, several Replicator recipes, backup weapons, Body Sleeve, Extended Set of Armbands and more for €79.97. The Elite Squad Edition includes everything from the Premium Edition plus two extra keys for your friends at €120.

Kilian Binder

Hey, I’m Kilian, but online you’ll probably know me as “Tux1243.” I've been part of the team for almost two years now, always trying to keep you in the loop with the latest and coolest gaming news. I also have a huge passion for doing deep dives and detailed analyses of entire game series and franchises. I love getting to the bottom of things and exploring the little details and backstories that make game worlds so fascinating.

Active Matter: New Extraction Shooter Adventure from the War Thunder Creators

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