A thrilling storm is brewing in Arc Raiders as Embark Studios unveils the Cold Snap update, promising a frosty challenge that will test your survival skills against nature’s fury. This update introduces exciting new cold-weather survival mechanics designed to keep raiders on their toes.
The update is set to release on December 16, transforming key locations like Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, Spaceport, and The Blue Gate with a wintery makeover. As snowstorms sweep across Speranza, players will face reduced visibility, frozen lakes, and the biting threat of frostbite, necessitating new strategic approaches to gameplay.
Chilling New Gameplay Mechanics
- Environmental Hazard: The unforgiving cold presents newfound dangers for those who linger outdoors, with frostbite creeping in to gradually sap away health.
- Shelter Mechanics: Raiders must adapt their strategies to counter the chilling conditions, focusing on healing and shelter to avoid the icy grasp of frostbite.
- Visual Overhaul: Expect to see stunning visual changes like frost buildup and snow-covered landscapes across familiar battlegrounds.
Players can also enjoy unique loot and rewards through the Flickering Flames event and Candleberry Banquet project.
Flickering Flames Event: This endurance challenge pushes Raiders to their limits, with 25 levels of rewards including new gear and customization options. Raiders must play five rounds to participate and earn Merits, which are collected from XP.
Candleberry Banquet Project: Join fellow Raiders in this heartwarming project to gather around a virtual banquet table. Collect Candleberries to uncover new scenes and earn rewards such as cosmetic items and Raider Tokens, contributing to the Flickering Flames event.
December 26 brings the introduction of the Goalie Raider deck to the base game. This new addition includes hockey-themed apparel and items, offering Raiders a fresh set of challenges and rewards.
The Expedition Project Raider Reset offers a chance for players to embark on a renewed journey with exclusive buffs and rewards. By gathering essential materials and building a Caravan, players can reset their progress for an exciting new venture.
Embark explains the reason behind the seasonal reset in a recent blog post, emphasizing the balance between respecting players’ time investment and offering new challenges. “Progression wipes are notoriously difficult to balance, but the optional Expedition Project aims to provide a choice,” Embark stated. “Not completed as much as you’d like? Keep on raiding, building, and growing. Ready for a new challenge and to grind once again? Depart on the Expedition, and receive buffs, rewards, and bragging rights.”
Release Details and Future Prospects
The Cold Snap update rolls out on Tuesday, December 16, at 10.30am CET / 9.30am UK time / 1.30am PT / 4.30am ET. It features limited-time events running until January 13, 2026, at the same times.
As the final update in the 2025 content roadmap, Cold Snap leaves players eager to see what Embark Studios has in store for 2026. Arc Raiders has already sold over 4 million copies within two weeks of launch, with a peak player count reaching 700,000 across all platforms. Its success even led to a cameo on South Park and a win for Best Multiplayer at The Game Awards 2025.
If you’re ready to dive into Arc Raiders, explore our guides for the best settings, recommended skills, and how to maximize loot collection.