Raid means a large, difficult group activity in an online game, usually against powerful bosses and built for a full party. In extraction shooters, it also means a single run into a map.
The first meaning comes from MMOs and co-op games, and it is the most common one. The second is a different use of the same word, found in extraction shooters.
Sense 1: raid as a group boss activity
In MMOs and co-op RPGs, a raid is endgame content for a bigger group than a normal dungeon. You learn the boss mechanics, assign roles (tank, healer, damage) and repeat attempts until you clear it. Raids often give the best gear in the game.
Examples of games with raids include World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XIV, Destiny 2 and Lost Ark. Group size and difficulty vary by game, so check the game's own rules.
A failed attempt is a wipe. Many players run raids with a fixed team, called a static, because coordination matters so much.
Sense 2: raid as one run in an extraction shooter
In Escape from Tarkov, a raid is one match: you load into a map, loot and fight, then extract or die. "How was your raid?" means "how did that run go?". Other extraction shooters also use the word.
How players use it
- "Raid night is Thursday, we need one more healer."
- "We wiped on the last boss three times, same mechanic."
- "LFM weekly raid, experienced only, mic required."
- "Quick raid on Customs, I only need two quest items."
Joining a raid group
Raid groups are usually formed through in-game finders, guild channels and Discord. A post like the third example above is a typical LFM message. Voice comms are expected for raids, since callouts decide whether a mechanic is survived. For Destiny 2, see the fireteam finder guide; for Lost Ark, see how to find a static. You can also look at /find-players to see who is online for the same game.
Related terms
FAQ
What is the difference between a raid and a dungeon?
A dungeon is a smaller group activity, usually for a standard party. A raid is bigger and harder, with more complex boss mechanics, and it often rewards better gear.
How many players are in a raid?
It depends on the game. Some raids are built for a small fireteam, others for much larger groups. Check the game's own description of each raid.
What does raid mean in Tarkov?
In Escape from Tarkov, a raid is a single run into a map: you enter, loot and fight, then try to extract alive.
Do I need a guild to raid?
Not always. Many games have group finders, and community Discord servers and apps can help you find a team, though a regular group usually performs better.