Arc Raiders is set to receive a significant overhaul on October 8 with the release of the "Frozen Trail" update. This free update will introduce a new battle pass system, dubbed the "Reward Pass," which will feature both a free and a paid premium track. While the game previously offered free "Raider Decks" that allowed players to earn in-game currency and rewards through daily challenges, the new system introduces a paid option.
The Premium Pass will cost 1,150 Raider Tokens, approximately $10 USD. Embark Studios has stated that the Premium Pass will exclusively offer cosmetic items, ensuring that gameplay-altering items, such as new weapons and gear, remain accessible through the Free Pass. This approach aims to prevent any "pay-to-win" scenarios.
Encouragingly, the developers have implemented a system where purchasing the Premium Pass will effectively pay for itself. Players who complete the Reward Pass will earn back 1,350 Raider Tokens, including 200 from the Free Pass, netting a profit of 200 tokens. This player-friendly design has been highlighted as a notable feature by the development team.
The "Frozen Trail" update also brings substantial new content to Arc Raiders. A new map, "Pendola Pass," will feature a frosty environment and introduce new enemy types: the Bully, Skulker, and Hydra. The Frigate, an airborne carrier and a new raid-like event, will challenge players with combat and puzzles, culminating in a battle against the Hydra, which has the ability to respawn once defeated.
Weapon customization is being expanded with "weapon amplification," allowing for new ways to modify weapons and potentially disrupt the existing meta. "Stencils" will serve as cosmetic weapon skins. New gameplay items include instruments like the banjo and harmonica, a camera, and a grappling hook.
Quests will be updated to include optional objectives for bonus rewards, and skill trees are being overhauled with new and altered skills. The update also adds "Outposts," customizable areas for players to personalize. The possibility of explorable social hubs, like a player-run Speranza, is something Embark is considering for future updates, though not included in "Frozen Trail."
"Frozen Trail" arrives on October 8 as a free update across all platforms. A "Frozen Trail Collector Set" bundle will be available, featuring a new outfit, weapon stencil, hairstyle, 2,400 Raider Tokens, and instant access to the Premium Pass.