After a period of monthly update pauses aimed at delivering more substantial improvements, Arc Raiders is set to receive its largest content drop to date with the upcoming Frozen Trail update. Launching on October 8, the update will introduce a host of new content and features, including a new map, new enemies, new weapons, and a significant overhaul of existing systems.
A New Frontier: Pendola Pass
The centerpiece of the Frozen Trail update is the addition of Pendola Pass, a new map set in a snowy mountain range. This map will feature an Emperor, a colossal Arc enemy previously only seen in the distance, allowing players to explore its immense fallen form. The map also introduces a new extraction method: a limited-capacity gondola that can only carry three raiders at a time. Players will also need to contend with the Flash Freeze weather condition, which forces them to seek shelter to avoid its effects.
New Threats and Tools
Frozen Trail will bring three new Arc enemies to the game. The Hydra, a new boss-like foe, functions as a multi-target turret. Smaller enemies include the Skulker, a long-range sniper, and the aggressive, machine-learning-driven Bully. To combat these threats, players will have access to two new weapons: the Stiletto battle rifle and the Bantam revolver. A new weapon amplification system will also allow existing weapons to be modified with new properties, such as turning the Burletta pistol fully automatic or equipping the Rattler with incendiary ammunition. In total, 15 weapon amplifications will be available at launch.
Complementing the new weaponry are new gadgets. The Grappling Hook allows players to traverse the environment by climbing or swinging across gaps, and can even be attached to enemies to be pulled along. The Tether Launcher can connect two points, potentially used to impede airborne enemies, while the Yank Grenade pulls nearby enemies towards it, useful for repositioning foes or allies.
Systemic Enhancements and Customization
Embark Studios is also introducing long-requested features like weapon skins, which will be available through the store, a new reward pass, and as loot. Two new playable instruments, a banjo and a harmonica, are also being added, alongside an in-game camera to cater to the game's popular photography community.
The skill tree is being revamped to make choices more impactful, with players now having to select between different abilities rather than unlocking everything. This, combined with the weapon amplification system, aims to encourage greater build diversity.
Outposts are another new feature, offering players a personal space to display furniture, crafting stations, and trinkets, marking a step towards a player "home on the surface."
The Frozen Trail update will be released as a free download for PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X on October 8.