The ARC Raiders Frozen Trail update launched on October 8, 2026, as the game’s 2.0 update. Embark Studios describes it as the biggest content update since launch, introducing a new map, enemies, weapons, and progression changes.
Alongside these additions, players will have a new way to experience the extraction shooter. Embark has scheduled a PvE matchmaking test for October 13–20, allowing players to cooperate against ARC machines without taking damage from each other.
The ARC Raiders Frozen Trail update also coincided with a free weekend that ran from October 8 to 12. The promotion has ended, and the game has not switched to a free-to-play model.
While Frozen Trail is already available, the PvE test follows a separate schedule. The cooperative matchmaking option was not part of the October 8 launch and has not been confirmed as a permanent feature.
ARC Raiders PvE mode: How the October test works
The ARC Raiders PvE mode test is scheduled for October 13–20, 2026. During this period, players will be able to choose between traditional PvPvE matchmaking and an alternative focused on fighting ARC machines alongside other Raiders.
In PvE sessions, player-to-player damage will be disabled. Solo players, duos, and trios will be able to share the same session while exploring maps, collecting resources, and completing quests. ARC machines will remain a constant threat.
Embark has also introduced several restrictions to maintain balance between the two experiences:
- Loot: The overall value of resources found in PvE sessions will be lower.
- Map conditions: Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate will not be available during the test.
- Matchmaking: PvE matches will not affect the rating used for PvPvE matchmaking.
- Duration: The PvE option is scheduled to be removed after October 20, when the test ends.
The goal is not to turn ARC Raiders into an exclusively PvE game. Instead, Embark wants to evaluate demand for an alternative to direct player-versus-player combat.
The developer will use test results and community feedback to determine its next steps. For now, there is no guarantee that the mode will become permanent.
New Pendola Pass map expands Frozen Trail’s challenges
Among the major Frozen Trail update features, Pendola Pass stands out as the biggest addition. Located beyond the mountains north of the Rust Belt, the map combines an old Italian village with transportation facilities belonging to Project Exodus.
Its frozen environment introduces another survival challenge. Freezing waves gradually drain players’ health while they remain outdoors, making shelter an important part of every raid.
One of the main points of interest is the Emperor, a massive fallen ARC machine. Its interior offers the game’s first dungeon-style exploration experience.
Accessing the structure requires players to figure out how to get inside, while the Redirection map condition introduces another challenge.
Pendola Pass also features Ballistic Gondolas, a new extraction system activated through transmitters scattered across the map. Each gondola can carry up to three players.
Another addition is the experimental Dynamic Loot Zone system. Certain areas can offer loot of different values between raids, while the types of resources associated with those locations remain consistent.
Three new enemies also arrive with the update: Bully, Skulker, and Hydra.
Frozen Trail introduces Frigate as another map condition, featuring a large explorable ARC machine. Together, these additions make exploration more dangerous, even for players who prefer avoiding PvP encounters.
ARC Raiders new weapons and equipment
The two main additions to the ARC Raiders new weapons lineup are the Stiletto and Bantam. They arrive alongside amplified weapons, which expand the capabilities of existing firearms and introduce additional customization options.
| Weapon | Type | Main feature |
| Stiletto | Light-ammo combat rifle | Designed for accurate long-range shots. Magazine capacity varies depending on upgrades. |
| Bantam | Compact heavy-ammo revolver | Offers quick hip-fire performance and takes over the uncommon weapon slot previously associated with the Anvil. |
| Amplified weapons | Upgraded versions of existing weapons | Unlock additional customization options and special weapon characteristics. |
Amplified weapon progression is connected to the Research Bench at the Outpost. Some upgrades modify how weapons function, while others improve their capabilities at higher progression levels.
The update also introduces several new exploration tools.
These include the Grappling Hook, which helps players reach elevated areas and cross gaps, as well as the Tether Launcher and Yank Grenade.
Basic and advanced cameras have also been added, alongside Weapon Stencils for customizing the appearance of firearms.
Skill tree changes, Outpost, and Reward Pass overhaul progression
The ARC Raiders skill tree changes go beyond a visual redesign. Embark has introduced new skills, adjusted existing abilities, and added decisions that prevent players from unlocking certain options together.
At specific points in the middle of each branch, players must choose between two skills. At the ends of the branches, they can unlock up to two of three available options, provided they meet the requirements.
These changes make build planning more important, especially for players who previously relied on established progression paths.
Another major addition is the Outpost, a customizable player base unlocked through a project. It features a Research Bench and craftable furniture created using Design items collected during raids.
The Reward Pass replaces Raider Decks as the main progression system and introduces Reward Points instead of Cred.
The Frozen Trail Reward Pass includes 60 levels, featuring both free and premium rewards.
Previously released decks remain accessible through the Legacy Pass, preserving the progress players have already made.
The 2.0 update also introduces 22 new quests, expanding the activities available across the game.
ARC Raiders Frozen Trail patch notes: Balance changes and known issues
The ARC Raiders Frozen Trail patch notes also introduce several balance adjustments that affect combat and equipment choices.
The Anvil has moved from green to blue rarity and no longer supports a Tech Mod slot. Meanwhile, the Snap Hook has received a nerf to its range and now consumes more resources when used.
Explosive damage against ARC machines has also been rebalanced.
Weapons such as the Hullcracker now deal more than 50% additional damage to armor plates, but approximately 30% less damage against more vulnerable components.
Embark has also removed the Solo vs. Squads matchmaking option while reassessing its role in the game.
The developer has acknowledged several issues that were still present at launch.
For example, the Picking up the Pieces quest cannot be completed on Pendola Pass, although it remains functional on other maps.
The new environment also contains collision issues, with specific fixes planned for future updates.
ARC Raiders free weekend ended on October 12
The ARC Raiders free weekend in October 2026 ran from October 8 at 6 a.m. to October 12 at 5 a.m., Brasília time (UTC-3).
The promotion allowed players to try the game on Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S without purchasing it. Access ended when the announced promotional period expired.
During the event, newcomers could immediately explore Pendola Pass by joining a party with someone who had already unlocked the map.
The free weekend was a limited-time promotion tied to the Frozen Trail launch, rather than a permanent transition to a free-to-play business model.
With the promotion over, attention shifts to the PvE test and the longer-term impact of the 2.0 update.
Embark will still need to evaluate whether an experience without player-to-player damage can coexist with the game’s traditional matchmaking system without disrupting raid balance or the in-game economy.
