ARC Raiders: Cold Snap Update Details, Release Date

The Cold Snap update is set to become a major content drop for ARC Raiders at the end of 2025. It focuses on survival conditions, limited-time activities, and progression systems rather than introducing new maps or enemy types.

Cold Snap Release Date

Cold Snap from Embark Studios launches on Tuesday, December 16, at 10:30am CET/ 9:30am UK time/ 1:30am PT/ 4:30am ET. This update introduces limited-time events and seasonal content that will run until January 13, 2026, concluding at the same time. It comes after the previous major update, North Line, which brought the Stella Montis map and new ARCs, including the massive ARC Matriarch. Serving as the final major content release of 2025, Cold Snap completes ARC Raiders 2025 roadmap, while Embark has yet to announce what’s planned for 2026

New Weather Condition — Snowfall

A new snowfall weather effect is coming to ARC Raiders, dramatically changing gameplay. Raiders exposed to the cold for too long face an environmental hazard, as prolonged exposure can cause frostbite, a creeping condition that slowly drains health. The harsh weather reduces visibility, alters movement, and forces players to adapt their combat tactics. Frost buildup, frozen lakes, and snow accumulation also transform the visual appearance of maps such as Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, Spaceport, and The Blue Gate. Snow can leave footprints, enabling players to track others across the battlefield. To survive, Raiders must carefully plan loadouts and extractions, and make strategic use of shelter or healing tools to withstand the extreme cold.

Limited-Time Event: Flickering Flames

The Flickering Flames event is the centerpiece of the Cold Snap update, challenging Raiders to test their endurance and survival skills in harsh, freezing conditions. It includes 25 reward levels, unlocked by earning Merits, which are automatically gained from XP earned during matches. Players can earn rewards such as new gear, cosmetic customization items, and Raider Tokens. To participate, Raiders must first complete at least five rounds of gameplay. Alongside Flickering Flames, the Candleberry Banquet Project offers unique loot and additional rewards, encouraging teamwork and exploration throughout the event period.

New Quests

Cold Snap adds new quests for both seasonal events and regular gameplay. A major highlight is the Candleberry Banquet Project, a multi-stage activity in which Raiders scavenge unique items topside and collect Candleberries. The project consists of five stages, each unveiling a new scene on the banquet table. Completing these stages rewards players with cosmetic items, Raider Tokens, and Merits, which also contribute to progress in the Flickering Flames event.

New Raider Deck

Cold Snap introduces a new Raider Deck, a progression and reward system similar to a battle pass. By completing its objectives, players can earn cosmetics, resources, and other in-game items. Starting December 26, the Goalie Raider Deck will be added to the base game, featuring new items and feats, as well as rewards such as Raider Tokens, cosmetic items, a hockey-inspired Raider outfit in several color variants, and a hockey stick Raider tool.

Expedition Changes

A departure window for the first Expedition Project will be added. This enables players to voluntarily reset their character progression and participate in Expeditions with unique conditions and long-term rewards. For more details on how this wipe system works, you can check out the ARC Raiders Expedition Project Guide, where you’ll find all the information you need.

What Cold Snap Does NOT Add

Cold Snap does not introduce new ARC enemy types or entirely new maps. The update is focused on atmosphere, weather mechanics, seasonal events, and refining existing systems.

Overall, Cold Snap aims to deepen the existing ARC Raiders experience by adding environmental pressure and seasonal content that significantly affect tactics and pacing, rather than expanding the game world itself.