Arc Raiders Frozen Trail Expansion: What to Expect

ARC Raiders will receive its most ambitious content expansion to date, titled Frozen Trail 2.0, on October 8, according to Embark Studios.

Pendola Pass and Mountain Survival Mechanics

The centerpiece of the update is Pendola Pass, a vertical and complex map located at the northern edge of the Rust Belt. According to Embark Studios, the region features dense interiors and a fallen Arc “Emperor” robot that players can explore from the inside. Infiltration on the map is complicated by Flash Freeze, a sudden weather condition that drains player health and forces squads to seek shelter in avalanche safe houses before exposure becomes fatal. For extraction, the map introduces the Ballistic Gondola, a rapid transport mechanism that accommodates only three Raiders at a time.

New Arc Threats and Tactical Battlefield Conditions

Players navigating Pendola Pass will encounter three new enemy archetypes. The Bully is an agile, aggressive tank that engages in hit-and-run tactics, while the Skulker operates as a stealthy ranged unit. Additionally, the Fragata hosts the Hydra, a three-piece stationary tower capable of firing at multiple players simultaneously and respawning after destruction.

Outposts and Expanded Weapon Customization

Embark Studios is introducing Outposts, personalizable off-site bases where players can construct workbenches and place modular furniture. These spaces house the Research Table, which links to the new Weapon Amplification system. Amplified Weapons allow up to fifteen base firearms to reach a fifth quality tier, unlocking gameplay alterations like incendiary rounds for the Rattler or telescopic sights for the Renegade. The update also introduces Weapon Stencils for permanent cosmetic application, alongside the Stiletto light-ammo shotgun and the Western-styled Bantam revolver.

Tactical Gear and Movement Upgrades

Traversal options expand with the addition of a Grappling Hook for scaling rooftops and crossing chasms. Players can also utilize the Tether Launcher, which anchors two points with a cable to restrict Arc mobility or drag opposing players across the terrain. Combat utility is further increased with the Yank Grenade, an explosive that pulls targets or flying Arcs toward the detonation point. Alongside these tools, the update delivers a functional Photo Museum camera, musical instruments, and a 60-tier Reward Pass split into free and premium tracks.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Frozen Trail 2.0 update release for ARC Raiders?

According to Embark Studios, the update launches on October 8, without additional cost across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, as well as NVIDIA GeForce NOW.

How does the Flash Freeze mechanic work in Pendola Pass?

Flash Freeze is a sudden severe weather event on the new map that drains player health over time, requiring Raiders to quickly locate and take cover inside avalanche safe houses.

What are Outposts in ARC Raiders?

Outposts are personalizable personal spaces outside of Speranza where players can build workstations, place modular furniture, and access the new Research Table for weapon upgrades.

Can weapon stats be changed using Stencils?