Developer Embark Studios has released the highly anticipated Cold Snap update for ARC Raiders, marking the game's final major patch of the year. The update is available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, bringing a significant amount of new content, bug fixes, and a deadly new map condition that fundamentally changes gameplay.
This patch continues the steady support the game has received since its October launch, which previously included the November North Line update that introduced the Stella Montis map, the deadly Shredder enemy, and the colossal Matriarch boss.
Key Content Additions (December 16)
The Cold Snap update introduces a winter theme with new survival mechanics and two temporary events:
1. Cold Snap Map Condition
The new map condition rotates into play on maps like Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, Spaceport, and The Blue Gate.
Survival Threat: Exposure to freezing temperatures causes frostbite, which can quickly "cut your Raider down in minutes." Players must constantly seek indoor shelter or rely on healing items.
Movement & Vision: Snowfall limits visibility, and Raiders become unsteady over frozen water. Embark notes that getting pinned down outside is effectively a "death sentence."
Unique Loot: Features visually distinct Candleberry bushes which drop Candleberries for the seasonal Project.
2. Seasonal Events and Rewards (Dec 16 - Jan 13)
Flickering Flames Live Event: A personal progression event with 25 levels of rewards, including new gear, customizations, and Raider Tokens. Progress is earned by generating Merits from XP.
Candleberry Banquet Project: A new Project running alongside Flickering Flames. Players earn rewards by scavenging specific items and collecting Candleberries topside. Completing stages earns Merits for the Flickering Flames event.
3. Expedition Departure Window
The first-ever Expedition departure window is opening from December 17 to December 22.
Players who have completed their caravan requirements can choose to leave the Rust Belt on December 22.
Rewards for Resetting: Players receive a new Raider with extra Stash space, the Patchwork Raider outfit, cosmetic items, up to five skill points (based on Stash value), and temporary buffs (e.g., 10% repair buff).
4. Goalie Raider Deck (Starting December 26)
A second free Raider Deck is being permanently added to the base game. The Goalie Deck features a winter hockey-inspired outfit and tool, alongside 5 pages of unlockable rewards that can be earned using Cred.
Major Balance and Fixes
Weapons and ARC
Bettina Assault Rifle: Durability Burn Rate is significantly reduced (now takes 26 full magazines to deplete, up from 12). Base Magazine Size increased (20 to 22), and Reload Time reduced (5s to 4.5s).
Rattler: Base Magazine Size increased (10 to 12) for improved close-range PvP viability.
Shredder ARC: Reduced knockback from weapons, increased movement speed, and improved navigation to prevent getting stuck. Increased the number of destroyable parts.
Quality-of-Life and Gameplay
Skill Tree Reset: Functionality added to reset the Skill Tree in exchange for Coins (2,000 Coins per skill point).
Cred Soft Cap: A soft cap (800) has been implemented on Cred to encourage players to utilize Raider Decks rather than accumulating vast amounts. Existing Cred is unaffected.
Raider Tool Customization: Added customization options for Raider Tools.
Movement Fixes: A slight stamina cost has been added for entering a slide, and acceleration has been reduced when dodging from a slide.
Audio and Visual: Improved directional sound for ARC enemies, added an optional Round Feedback button, and fixed numerous crashes and collision issues across all maps.
Embark Studios will take a break over the holidays, monitoring critical issues, and will return in January with continued updates.
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