ARC Raiders is free to play on Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation from October 8, 2026, at 09:00 UTC until October 12 at 08:00 UTC. Embark says the event gives players access to the full game, but its announcement does not promise a separate reward for participating. The Frozen Trail update launches at the same time; it is game content, not a reward confirmed for joining the free-play event.
When is ARC Raiders free to play?
Embark’s event runs from October 8, 2026, at 09:00 UTC to October 12, 2026, at 08:00 UTC—four days minus one hour. The window has begun as of October 8, 2026. To work out the local start and end, convert each UTC time using your time zone; the dates may differ locally.
Which platforms are included?
The event is listed for Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation. Embark identifies one regional exception: on PS5 in Germany, access costs €0.25. Check your local platform store for the offer and any regional terms before downloading.
Xbox Wire says no Game Pass membership is required for its October 8–11 free-play offer. The event announcement’s available text does not establish whether PlayStation Plus or other platform subscriptions are required elsewhere, so check the relevant storefront and platform terms.
#1 Best Overall
![ARC Raiders Deluxe - PC Steam [Online Game Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51I3Aj2PM0L._SL160_.jpg)
- ARC Raiders Deluxe Edition includes the base game and the following content: The Wanderer Set, including the following cosmetic items: “Valente” Outfit" “Pathfinder” Backpack,“Blanket Roll” Backpack Attachment.
- Plus: Character Cosmetic, Finger Gun Rapid Fire Emote, Cowboy Scrappy Body Type and Skin, 2 400 Raider Tokens.
What do you get during the free-play event?
Embark describes the offer as access to the full ARC Raiders game, letting players try it before buying. New players can access Pendola Pass immediately if they join a squad with players who have already unlocked the map. The announcement does not specify whether event progress carries over afterward, so do not assume either that it will transfer or that it will be deleted.
Is there a special reward for participating?
No separate participation reward is named in Embark’s free-play announcement. The offer is access to the full game, not a stated earnable item. Frozen Trail launches alongside the event and adds Pendola Pass, new threats, and gear, but the launch timing does not establish that any of these are a special reward for joining the trial.
Embark’s Frozen Trail launch article also describes a paid Collector Set DLC. It includes a cosmetic set, the Renzo, Dragon’s Breath Weapon Stencil, Bob Hair Style, 2,400 Raider Tokens, and access to the Frozen Trail Premium Reward Pass. That paid content is distinct from the free-play offer; the launch listing does not establish its current price.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can you buy ARC Raiders after the event?
The free-play event is presented as a chance to try the full game before buying. Xbox Wire reports that the base game, Deluxe Edition, and Deluxe Edition upgrade are 50% off on Xbox from October 8 through October 15, 2026. Xbox cautions that discount terms and availability can vary by title and region, so confirm the current price in your local Xbox store. That discount should not be assumed to apply on Steam or PlayStation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ARC Raiders–Inspired Design: Bold, high-quality graphics with vibrant colors that capture the iconic ARC Raiders aesthetic.
- Durable Premium Vinyl: Made from thick, high-grade vinyl for long-lasting use on cars, laptops, skateboards, walls, and flasks.
- UV & Weather Resistant: Fade-proof, waterproof, and scratch-resistant—perfect for indoor and outdoor applications.
- Easy Application & Removal: Applies smoothly without bubbles and removes cleanly with no sticky residue left behind.
- Versatile Décor & Gift Idea: Ideal for personalizing gear, accessories, and spaces, and a great gift for ARC Raiders fans.
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- Capture and Tame Dinosaurs: Discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures on the island, finding ways to tame them into useful additions for your tribe's dyno herd
- Survive Above All: Hunger, thirst, basic safety, and protecting yourself from the weather are all part of the game
- Harvest, Hunt and Build: Cut down trees and turn them into a basic home, which you can quickly expand into a Jurassic estate. Hunt for meat, scavenge for plants (or start your own garden!)
- Customize Everything: An extensive crafting system invites you to mix and match materials scavenged from the island, while also modifying the colors, textures, shapes, and styles
- Explore the Island: Solve the mystery of The ARK as you explore this massive island, discovering Explorer's Notebooks (filled with clues!) throughout
Official details
- Embark’s ARC Raiders free-play event announcement
- Embark’s Frozen Trail launch article
- Xbox Wire’s free-play and discount announcement
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
