The Arc Raiders Frozen Trail update, which went live on October 8, 2026, introduces a substantial overhaul to the game’s core systems, including the new Pendola Pass map and a total redesign of the skill tree. Players can access the content immediately on PC and consoles without a scheduled maintenance window.
Pendola Pass Introduces New Maps and Tactical Gear
The centerpiece of this release is the Pendola Pass map, which introduces new environmental conditions known as Frigate and Redirection. To counter these threats, developers at Embark Studios have added the Bantam and Stiletto weapons, alongside a suite of tactical items including a grappling hook, tether launcher, and various camera modules for environmental reconnaissance. The update also adds the Yank Grenade, Mountaineer’s Detector, Banjo, and Harmonica, while introducing new Bully, Skulker, and Hydra enemies.
Restructured Skill Tree Increases Playstyle Customization
The skill tree has been completely restructured to move away from the previous “large node” system. At the end of each branch, players must choose two out of three available skills once a specific point threshold is met. According to official documentation from the official Arc Raiders news portal, this rework is designed to address player feedback regarding a lack of meaningful character progression and build variety. The system is intended to be more “impactful,” allowing for more distinct playstyle customization.
Reward Points Replace Cred Currency System
The game has moved away from the previous “Cred” currency system, replacing it with Reward Points that automatically track progress on the active Reward Pass. The Frozen Trail Pass consists of 60 levels, split between a free and a premium track. Legacy progression, formerly known as Raider Decks, has been migrated to a dedicated Legacy Pass, which players can toggle at their convenience. The max stash size has been expanded by two levels, allowing for 328 slots before accounting for additional expedition bonuses. Players can earn Reward Points through three weekly milestones: completing four milestones grants 250 points, with further tiers at eight and 12 milestones. Once these are met, players can continue completing Feats, though major milestone rewards are paused until the weekly timer resets.
Weapon Stencils and Cosmetic Personalization
Players can now apply Weapon Stencils to modify the aesthetic of their gear. These stencils function similarly to blueprints—once a player learns a pattern, it can be applied to compatible weapons. There are 14 stencils available at launch: eight found on the Topside, five exclusive to the Frozen Trail Premium Pass, and one tied to DLC. It is important to note that these customized weapons remain subject to the game’s risk-reward loop; if a player is downed, their stenciled weapon can be looted by others. Applying these requires Stencil Parts, which are discovered on the Topside.
Technical Refinements and AI Behavior
Beyond the content additions, the update addresses several mechanical inconsistencies. The explosive damage formula has been reworked; weapons like the Hullcracker now deal 50% more damage to armor plates but suffer a 30% reduction against unarmored parts. Other technical adjustments include:
- Animation Sync: Knockback animations now align precisely with the direction of impact.
- Quest System: The game now features 22 new quests.
- Interface: The map selection screen has been reworked for better usability, and default gamepad mapping has been updated.
Outpost Customization and Research Bench Integration
Players can now unlock a permanent home on the Topside by completing specific projects. The Outpost serves as a hub for the new research bench and supports modular expansions. Customization is driven by a new “Furniture Design” system, with 100 unique designs added to the game. While 73 designs are discoverable on the Topside, others are locked behind the Reward Pass, DLC, or specific Outpost upgrade tiers, with 22 designs specifically tied to upgrading the Outpost itself.
Frozen Trail Update Requires Deliberate Character Building
The Frozen Trail update requires more deliberate character building and a more granular approach to player progression. The next phase of development will likely focus on balancing these new skill tree nodes as data on player selection patterns becomes available.
