The latest ARC Raiders update launches Frozen Trail with a new map, dangerous ARC enemies, fresh weapons and a four-day free-play event...
The latest ARC Raiders update is now live, bringing major new content to Embark Studios’ multiplayer extraction adventure. Called Frozen Trail, the update adds a new map, enemies, weapons, gadgets and other gameplay features.
Key Features
- Frozen Trail update
- Pendola Pass map
- New ARC enemies
- Stiletto battle rifle
- Bantam revolver
- Grappling Hook gadget
- Tether Launcher
- Yank Grenade
- Customizable Outpost
- Weapon upgrade system
- Free play October 8–12
- PvE test October 13–20
ARC Raiders Update: Frozen Trail Is Live
The arc raiders update launched on October 8, 2026, and is described by Embark Studios as its biggest update since launch. The game was originally released on October 30, 2025.
ARC Raiders is an extraction adventure set on a dangerous future Earth. Players become Raiders who explore the surface, collect valuable resources and try to escape safely while facing mechanical ARC threats and rival players.
New Pendola Pass Map
The biggest part of the arc raiders update is Pendola Pass. This frozen Italian village sits beyond the Rust Belt and contains an old supermarket, town square, observatory and buried train depot.
A fallen Emperor has also created a major opportunity for Raiders. However, flash freezes and a strong ARC response make the new area dangerous. New players can enter Pendola Pass immediately when playing with someone who has already unlocked the map.
New ARC Enemies and Weapons
The arc raiders update adds several new threats, including the Frigate, Bully, Skulker and Hydra. The Frigate is a huge ARC vessel that creates a difficult close-quarters challenge.
Players also get new weapons. The Stiletto functions as a battle rifle utilizing light ammunition, whereas the Bantam serves as a heavy-ammunition revolver crafted for delivering strong attacks at close quarters.
New Gadgets and Combat Options
Another important part of the arc raiders update is new equipment. The Grappling Hook enhances Raiders mobility by providing additional movement capabilities, whereas the Tether Launcher links targets together to limit their mobility. Meanwhile, the Yank Grenade is capable of dragging nearby enemies out of their cover.
The update also adds a camera gadget with zoom, focus controls, aperture options and a selfie mode.
Outpost and Weapon Upgrades
The arc raiders update introduces the Outpost, a new personal space connected to Pendola Pass. Players can customize it with modules and furniture.
A Research Workstation also expands weapon customization. Selected weapons can reach a fifth quality level with new upgrade paths and abilities, giving experienced players more ways to build their preferred arsenal.
Free ARC Raiders Trial
The arc raiders update arrives alongside a four-day free-play event. From October 8 at 09:00 UTC until October 12 at 08:00 UTC, players on Steam, Xbox and PlayStation can try the full game without buying it first.
The game supports cross-platform social play across PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. It can also be accessed via GeForce NOW. Players can raid alone or team up with others.
ARC Raiders Price and Deluxe Edition
ARC Raiders normally costs $39.99 for the Standard Edition in the U.S., while the Deluxe Edition is priced at $59.99. Current store discounts can reduce these prices during promotional periods.
The Deluxe Edition includes additional content and Raider Tokens. Players who enjoy the free event can purchase the game and continue their Raider journey afterward.
Upcoming PvE Test
The arc raiders update story does not end with Frozen Trail. Embark is also preparing a limited PvE matchmaking test starting October 13 and running through October 20, 2026.
This gives players another way to experience ARC Raiders beyond its traditional PvPvE format. The test is designed to gather feedback, so it does not guarantee that a permanent PvE mode will follow.
Final Verdict
Overall, the latest arc raiders update gives both returning and new players plenty of reasons to head Topside. With Frozen Trail, Pendola Pass, new ARC machines, expanded weapon systems and the free-play event, ARC Raiders enters October with a substantial new chapter.
Also Read: New Xbox Game Pass Tiers Explained: Ultimate vs Premium
FAQs
Q. When's the next ARC Raiders update?
The next major ARC Raiders update is expected later in the year, following Embark’s twice-yearly major update schedule.
Q. What was the new update for ARC Raiders?
Frozen Trail is the latest major update, adding Pendola Pass, new ARC threats, progression systems, weapons, gadgets, and more.
Q. Will they keep updating ARC Raiders?
Yes. Embark plans continued live updates, including balance fixes, bug fixes, events, store updates, and larger major releases.
Q. Is ARC Raiders dying out?
No. Embark says ARC Raiders remains early in its journey, with plans to expand gameplay, progression, narrative, and world.
Q. Will ARC Raiders have 4?
If you mean four-player squads, ARC Raiders currently supports solo play and team-based social play, with squads generally limited to three players.
Q. How often does ARC Raiders update?
Embark changed its major update schedule from monthly releases to two major updates yearly, while smaller live updates continue.
Q. What are the new leaks about ARC Raiders?
Current official information focuses on Frozen Trail and future development; unconfirmed leaks should be treated cautiously until Embark announces them.
Q. What game engine does Arc Raiders use?
ARC Raiders is built using Unreal Engine 5, according to the official ARC Raiders website and its current game description.
Also Read: Star Wars: Galactic Racer: Release Date, Gameplay and Features