ARC Raiders’ Flashpoint update is Patch 1.22.0, released March 31, 2026. Its main new activity is Close Scrutiny, which Embark classifies as both a map condition and an ARC Operation—not a traditional story-mission campaign. The patch also adds new combat gear and an enemy, changes loot rewards, and improves crafting and matchmaking. Embark’s Patch Notes 1.22.0 provide the official details.
What does Flashpoint add?
Embark’s update list groups the additions by their in-game roles. Close Scrutiny is the ARC Operation; the High-Gain Antenna is a Player Project. The patch also adds an ARC enemy, weapons, a deployable, map content, a Scrappy boost, and two cosmetic sets.
- Close Scrutiny: A map condition and ARC Operation.
- Vaporizer: A new ARC enemy.
- Dolabra: A legendary energy shotgun.
- Canto: A rare SMG that uses medium ammo.
- Surge Coil: A rare deployable.
- High-Gain Antenna: A Player Project.
- Other additions: Shredders on maps, Scrappy Feeding Boost, and the Wasp Hunter Set and Brigade Set.
The patch notes introduce the update with: “The hurricane subsides, but it leaves behind a host of new threats to overcome.” The line appears in Embark’s notes without attribution to an individual speaker.
How does Close Scrutiny fit into the update?
Close Scrutiny is the update’s central new activity, but the official category matters: Embark calls it an ARC Operation and a map condition. The notes do not describe Flashpoint as adding a conventional story-mission campaign. The Vaporizer, Dolabra, Canto, and Surge Coil are listed as related combat additions, while the High-Gain Antenna is separately categorized as a Player Project.
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What changed about loot?
Flashpoint adjusts rewards in three places. The patch notes do not give drop percentages or guarantee specific items, so the changes are best understood as improved value or chances rather than a promise of particular loot.
- Locked rooms: Loot value increased, and the increase scales with key rarity.
- Baron Husks: Loot spawns increased.
- Spaceport: Completing the rooftop activity during the Launch Tower Loot map condition has a higher chance of high-tier loot.
What crafting and matchmaking changes should players expect?
Find missing crafting materials in the crafting view
The crafting interface now lets players address missing materials without leaving that view. Recycling, refining, or purchasing materials is available in the same window.
Custom loadouts and fresh servers
Players using custom loadouts are more likely to enter fresh servers, but matchmaking does not guarantee it. Embark says map choice, time of day, and region affect the available player pool, and the adjustment may affect matchmaking time. Details are in the 1.22.0 notes.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is Flashpoint the October 2026 update?
No. Flashpoint is Patch 1.22.0 from March 31, 2026. Embark’s 1.21.0 notes had previewed it for the following week. Frozen Trail is a separate update listed on ARC Raiders’ official news page for October 8, 2026; it should not be confused with Flashpoint.
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