ARC Raiders free-to-play weekend starts this Thursday
After a period of intense discussion—and some rocky reviews—Embark Studios is pulling back the curtain on a massive overhaul for ARC Raiders. The team is ready to inject some serious energy back into the extraction shooter with their latest major development, the ‘Frozen Trail‘ update.
To celebrate this fresh direction and give players the ultimate chance to experience the evolution of the game, Embark has announced a limited-time free-to-play weekend. This isn’t just a simple trial; it’s an invitation to dive into the world of extraction and test out what’s next in the series.
From October 8 (09:00 UTC) to October 12 (08:00 UTC), 2026, players across Steam, Xbox, and Playstation will have full access to ARC Raiders. This free access is the perfect opportunity to try out the award-winning adventure before committing to a purchase, or simply to bring your squad along for a chaotic session.
The heart of this exciting weekend is the ‘Frozen Trail‘ update itself. Described by the developers as their biggest update since launch, this release is packed with fresh content designed to revitalize the gameplay loop. Players can look forward to exploring the brand-new Pendola Pass map, adding new dynamic challenges to the extraction experience.
Beyond the new environment, the update introduces significant additions that will reshape how players engage with the game. New enemies, including the Bully, Skulker, and Hydra, introduce new threats to scavenge and survive against. Furthermore, players will gain access to a customizable outpost, adding a layer of personal ownership to their raids.
The update also steps up the arsenal, providing players with a range of new weapons and gadgets, including the highly sought-after grapple hook, offering new tactical possibilities for navigating and securing locations.
Under the hood, the experience is also refined with an updated progression system, ensuring that the journey through ARC Raiders feels fresh, rewarding, and deeply engaging. This package of additions provides an unparalleled window into the future of the extraction shooter.
For anyone who has been waiting for a fresh start or is eager to see the potential of this title, the free weekend offers the ideal opportunity to experience the scope and depth of the Frozen Trail update. It’s more than just a trial; it’s a chance to jump into a revamped, exciting new chapter of an extraction adventure.
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