Embark Studios has unveiled Frozen Trail, the largest and most ambitious update yet for its multiplayer extraction adventure ARC Raiders. Launching on October 8, 2026, the free 2.0 update introduces the snowy Pendola Pass map, new ARC enemies, dynamic weather conditions, expanded progression systems, additional weapons and a new season of Trials.
The update arrives as ARC Raiders celebrates its first anniversary. According to Embark Studios, the game has sold more than 16 million copies worldwide during its first year.
Explore the Frozen Mountains of Pendola Pass
The centerpiece of Frozen Trail is Pendola Pass, a remote mountain region located at the northern edge of the Rust Belt. The new map features increased verticality, dense interiors, challenging terrain and numerous points of interest, including a massive fallen Emperor that players can explore.
Pendola Pass also introduces dynamic Flash Freeze weather conditions. Sudden freezing temperatures can sweep across the map, forcing Raiders to seek shelter before the extreme cold becomes dangerous.
Avalanche Shelters provide protection and opportunities to collect valuable loot, but they may also attract rival players. Meanwhile, the new Ballistic Gondola offers an alternative extraction method, allowing up to three Raiders to escape the area if they can reach and board it in time.
A new map condition called Redirection allows players to divert Harvester Payloads from the Collector toward their own location. However, activating the Transmitter attracts both ARC enemies and rival Raiders, creating additional challenges before players can claim their rewards.
New ARC Enemies and Combat Challenges
Frozen Trail introduces three new ARC enemies alongside the Frigate, a massive airborne carrier designed to challenge experienced players.
The Bully specializes in aggressive hit-and-run attacks, while the fast-moving Skulker uses tactical movement to keep Raiders under pressure. Players exploring the Frigate will also encounter Hydra, an ARC enemy capable of targeting multiple players simultaneously and respawning.
These additions introduce new combat encounters and tactical challenges throughout Pendola Pass.
Outposts, Weapon Upgrades and New Equipment
The update expands player progression with Outposts, personal spaces located outside Speranza. Players can develop their Outposts by building and upgrading workbenches, crafting items and customizing their surroundings with decorations.
A new Research Station introduces Weapon Amplification, allowing players to upgrade weapons beyond their previous limits while unlocking additional gameplay mechanics and weapon appearances.
Frozen Trail also adds new weapons, equipment and musical instruments. Among the new gadgets are a Camera that allows players to take first-person photographs and a Grappling Hook that provides additional movement options.
Weapon Stencils introduce a new cosmetic customization system. Once acquired and learned, a stencil can be permanently applied to compatible weapons without affecting their combat statistics.
The update also improves the quest system with additional objectives and bonus experience rewards. Changes to the Raider skill tree introduce new abilities and enhance existing ones, giving players more options to develop their preferred playstyle.
New Trials Season and Reward Pass
Frozen Trail marks the beginning of Trials Season 6, bringing additional challenges for Raiders to complete.
The new Frozen Trail Reward Pass features 60 levels of in-game rewards divided between free and premium tracks. The Free Pass is available to all players who own the base game, while the Premium Pass can be purchased for 1,150 Raider Tokens.
The Premium Pass includes 50 additional rewards, exclusive Raider cosmetics and 1,150 Raider Tokens. Players who complete both reward tracks can earn a total of 1,350 Raider Tokens.
A separate Frozen Trail Collector Set DLC will also launch on October 8. The bundle includes the Renzo outfit, Dragon’s Breath Weapon Stencil, Bob Hair Style, 2,400 Raider Tokens and access to the Premium Pass.
Frozen Trail Release Date and Platforms
ARC Raiders: Frozen Trail launches on October 8, 2026, as a free update for all existing players.
The update will be available on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and NVIDIA GeForce NOW.
Players can get an early look at the new map and upcoming features in the official ARC Raiders: Frozen Trail First Look trailer .