The current ARC Raiders winter-themed update is Frozen Trail, featuring the frozen Pendola Pass map and a new 60-level Reward Pass. Embark scheduled the update for October 8, 2026. The free-play window for Steam, Xbox and PlayStation was set to run from October 8 at 09:00 UTC through October 12 at 08:00 UTC; at the latest official timing reported before launch, that window had not yet begun. Check Embark’s official news for any later timing changes.
What is the ARC Raiders winter event?
Frozen Trail is the October 2026 winter-themed update. It is separate from the earlier Cold Snap map condition and Flickering Flames event, which had ended by January 2026. Embark announced Frozen Trail for October 8 and described it as the game’s largest update since launch. The exact time the update itself became playable was not confirmed in the announcement.
For the official announcement and feature details, see Embark’s Frozen Trail news and updates.
How to play ARC Raiders for free
Embark scheduled a free-play period for October 8 at 09:00 UTC to October 12 at 08:00 UTC, 2026. The offer names Steam, Xbox and PlayStation and includes access to the full game. The announcement does not extend the offer to other listed platforms such as Epic Games Store or GeForce NOW.
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New players can enter Pendola Pass immediately when teamed with players who have already unlocked the map, according to Embark’s announcement. The free-play dates are a limited access window, not a statement that the game becomes permanently free.
What Frozen Trail adds
Pendola Pass and the Frigate
Pendola Pass is a frozen settlement beyond the Rust Belt. Its locations include an old village, factories, research facilities, an observatory and an Exodus transport hub. Embark’s story setup centers on an Emperor that has fallen there.
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The update also introduces the Frigate, an ARC vessel players must board and navigate while facing ARC machines and rival Raiders. Embark describes this as a substantial challenge aimed at highly skilled Raiders; the announcement does not specify a required level, squad size or gear threshold.
New ARC enemies
- Bully: an aggressive machine that charges at players.
- Skulker: an opportunistic attacker that can disappear from view.
- Hydra: a three-part turret encountered on the Frigate.
Outpost, research and gear
Players can customize a new Outpost with modules and furniture. The Research Workstation supports research and weapon customization. A weapon amplification system adds a fifth quality level and branching upgrades for 15 weapons at launch. New named weapons include the light-ammo Stiletto and heavy-ammo Bantam.
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- Discover a galaxy of opportunity. Explore distinct locations with bustling cities and cantinas. Race across sprawling outdoor landscapes on your speeder. Each location brings new adventures, unique challenges, and enticing rewards if you’re willing to take the risk.
- Experience an original scoundrel story. Live the high-stakes lifestyle of an outlaw. Turn any situation to your advantage with Nix by your side: fight with your blaster, overcome enemies with stealth and gadgets, or find the right moments to distract enemies and gain the upper hand.
- Embark on high-stakes missions. Take on high-risk, high-reward missions from the galaxy’s crime syndicates. Steal valuable goods, infiltrate secret locations, and outwit enemies as one of the galaxy’s most wanted. Every choice you make influences your ever-changing reputation.
- Jump into the pilot seat. Pilot your ship, the Trailblazer, as you engage in thrilling dogfights with the Empire and other foes. Find the right opportunities to chase, evade, and attack to get the upper hand.
Other announced additions include a Grappling Hook, Tether Launcher, Yank Grenade, camera and new instruments. Frozen Trail also brings a new ARC Operation for experienced Raiders, quests, a Skill Tree rework and new map conditions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frozen Trail Free Pass rewards: what is free?
The Frozen Trail Reward Pass has 60 levels and Free and Premium options. Embark says the Free Pass includes new base outfits, cosmetic items, weapons, gadgets, other items and up to 200 Raider Tokens. That means the free track is not limited to cosmetics.
| Pass | What Embark says it includes | Raider Tokens |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Base outfits, cosmetics, weapons, gadgets and other items | Up to 200 |
| Premium | Outfit toggles and modifications, colorways, legendary weapon stencils and hairstyles; no gameplay-benefiting weapons or gadgets | Up to 1,150 |
These are maximum amounts described by Embark, not guaranteed totals for every player. The announcement does not establish the Free Pass end date, so check the in-game pass for current progression and availability.
Legacy Pass
The Legacy Pass is free and combines cosmetic rewards and Raider Tokens from previous Raider Decks. Players keep rewards they already earned; progressing the pass gives them a route to earn rewards they missed.
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- Sneak as a Naoe to not be discovered, use your agility to confuse your opponents and stretch down your opponents with deadly precision and power as a Yasuke
- Use information as weapons and build your own spy network to have eyes and ears everywhere and find your targets easier and recruit new allies on the go with unique skills to help you with your missions
- Create a fully customizable hideaway for your growing Shinobi league, where you train recruits, craft new equipment and interact with important characters; set the room layout, decoration and accessories yourself
What is not part of the free reward track?
Embark also previewed an optional paid Collector Set DLC containing a cosmetic set, 2,400 Raider Tokens, the Premium Reward Pass and other named items. It is distinct from the Free Pass and Legacy Pass. DLC contents and availability can change, so check the current store listing before purchase.
Quick Recap
Which rewards should you prioritize?
- Want gameplay items without paying? Focus on the Free Pass, which Embark says includes weapons, gadgets and other items alongside cosmetics.
- Want past Raider Deck rewards? Check the free Legacy Pass for the older cosmetics and Raider Tokens you have not earned.
- Considering Premium? Its announced additions are cosmetic variants and up to 1,150 Raider Tokens; Embark says it does not add gameplay-benefiting weapons or gadgets.
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