ARC Raiders One-Week PvE Mode Beta Finally Confirmed for October 13: Key Tips for Getting Involved

Posted: Sep 30, 2026

Ever since ARC Raiders launched, the community has been calling for a dedicated PvE mode. Now, as the game approaches its one-year anniversary and the major Frozen Trail update is set to launch, the development team has finally made it official!

Here, we'll detail how ARC Raiders will implement this pure PvE strategy and the advantages it offers in the competitive shooter market for the second half of the year.

When does ARC Raiders PvE mode launch?

According to the announcement made by the development team on September 24, ARC Raiders will host a one-week PvE mode beta starting October 13 and ending October 20.

PvE option will be removed once the beta concludes. A final, permanent release date will be determined only after further optimization based on actual gameplay and player feedback.

Notably, Frozen Trail update launches on October 8, meaning you'll have the chance to experience the new map, and battle new types of ARC enemies in a pure PvE setting.

How does PvE mode work?

ARC Raiders PvE mode isn't a separate, standalone game mode; instead, it integrates into the existing matchmaking environment, allowing you to toggle between PvPvE and PvE.

In the pure PvE environment, you can still cooperate with other players or squads to take down dangerous ARCs more easily, but players cannot attack one another.

Furthermore, PvE and PvPvE environments aren't isolated from each other; the development team is committed to seamless switching, letting you change your combat environment whenever your needs shift.

However, the player behavior assessment systems for the two environments operate independently. As you likely know, the type of human players you match with in PvPvE depends on your personal playstyle.

Additionally, to ensure the experience remains intense and high-stakes on maps defined by thrilling combat, such as Hidden Bunker and the upcoming Frigate, these locations are excluded from PvE beta.

ARC Raiders Frigate

Further distinctions in pure PvE

Beyond the obvious inability to engage in combat with other players, at least during the test period, the overall value of loot in ARC Raiders' Pure PvE mode will be lowered, while the base loot value in PvPvE will see a slight increase.

This adjustment accounts for the safer combat environment created by the absence of PvP conflict; without the threat of ambushes by rats, players can extract with large amounts of resources more easily. If loot values remained unchanged, it would create an unfair imbalance for PvPvE players.

Furthermore, to compensate for the loss of excitement associated with PvP, the danger level of ARC enemies in PvE mode has been slightly raised. Specifically, if you are downed but not yet dead, moving around may cause enemies to re-target and attack you.

This means that successfully defeating ARCs and extracting in PvE mode requires mastering highly mobile combat tactics and making full use of ARC Raiders items that enhance your character's stealth.

Things to note for PvE beta

If you plan to be among the first to experience ARC Raiders PvE on October 13, you should be aware of the following two points in addition to the mechanics mentioned above.

First, the introduction of a PvE mode will inevitably split the player base. Consequently, whether you are focusing on the test or playing the standard PvPvE mode, matchmaking times may increase, particularly during off-peak hours or on servers with lower populations.

Second, participating in the test does not guarantee that PvE mode will be officially released in the future, especially if the feedback is poor, so please keep this in mind.

What drove the development team to launch PvE beta?

Player requests were only one factor behind the launch of this ARC Raiders test; the development team made the decision based on a deep analysis of the player community and the resulting data.

Data released by ARC Raiders indicates that the current player base consists of 37% cooperative, PvE-leaning players; 27% hybrid players; and 34% pure PvP players.

Among the player base, the proportion of friendly players has been steadily rising, while the share of PvP-focused players has remained relatively stable.

However, players across all categories feel that hostile PvP encounters in ARC Raiders occur too frequently; some friendly players even try to avoid PvP entirely.

Beyond player demand, the developers have stated that when the project first began, the plan was to create a PvE-focused scavenge-fight-extract game. That original vision was shelved due to insurmountable difficulties, eventually evolving into the current PvPvE format.

Given the strong player support for pure PvE, the development team believes it is time to take action, satisfying player needs while gradually realizing the original development vision.

Competitor Marathon also launching a PvE mode

Shortly after ARC Raiders announced its PvE beta, its main rival in the genre, Marathon, announced that it would introduce a permanent PvE mode in December Symbiosis update.

While specific details remain scarce, Marathon appears committed to launching a PvE mode directly, rather than following ARC Raiders approach of testing first before deciding on future plans.

ARC Raiders vs. Marathon

If ARC Raiders does not launch an official PvE mode immediately after the test, or delays it until next year, some players might switch to Marathon in December once the novelty of Frozen Trail update wears off.

Whether the beta is a stopgap measure for ARC Raiders or a necessary step toward refining the official PvE mode, the shift toward a pure PvE environment is clearly the prevailing trend. We look forward to ARC Raiders delivering a satisfying beta experience on October 13!

ARC Raiders Will Introduce a Limited-Time PvE Mode | Matchmaking, Loot Changes, and Economic Risks

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ARC Raiders Will Introduce a Limited-Time PvE Mode | Matchmaking, Loot Changes, and Economic Risks
ARC Raiders officially released a new blog on September 24, announcing that it is testing a PvE matchmaking toggle for ARC Raiders. The test will run from October 13 to October 20, 2026, beginning five days after October 8 Frozen Trail update.

Players can choose the classic PvPvE experience, or opt for a co-op-focused PvE experience where they work with other Raiders to fight against ARC. Let's take a look at what this test includes and the potential issues that PvE mode could bring.

Player Data and Feedback

ARC Raiders development team relies heavily on player data when adjusting the game. They usually make key decisions from three perspectives: what the data shows, what players are saying, and what their own instincts suggest.

This time, the decision to introduce PvE mode is directly based on changes in player data:
- 37% are friendly co-op players, and this group has continued to grow since launch.
- 27% are mixed players who play both PvE and PvP.
- 34% are pure PvP players, and this proportion has remained stable since launch.
More than 70% of friendly players and 40% of PvP players want fewer hostile encounters, while 51% of surveyed players are interested in a dedicated PvE option. Friendly players often try to avoid PvP entirely and have become frustrated by ratting and camping.

How PvE Test Works?

PvE matchmaking toggle in this test will appear as a slider or option in the preparation interface, similar to the choices for filling teammates or playing solo. During the test, players can switch between the classic PvPvE and PvE experiences.

In PvE experience, player damage is set to zero, and each session focuses entirely on ARC threats and co-op social dynamics. PvE sessions will include solo, duos, and trios.

However, Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate will be excluded from the PvE matchmaking test. These activities were originally designed around high risk and high reward, and removing PvP from them would make valuable ARC Raiders items far easier to obtain.

In addition, PvE sessions will not affect PvPvE matchmaking rating. Once the test ends, the toggle will be removed and matchmaking will return to its previous state. In PvE, players can loot, complete missions, and explore with relatively little risk.

The overall loot value in PvE will also be reduced to compensate for the safer environment. Players should be careful when crawling after being downed by ARC machines, as they may retarget you, but they will ignore you if you remain still. The goal is to preserve some tension even without the threat of PvP.

Differences from Security Protocol in China

Previously, Chinese client tested a mode called Security Protocol. Similar to activities such as Night Raids, everyone entered in a PvE state, but players could switch to PvP during the session and would receive map indicators, audio warnings, and even red antennas.

However, the version being tested globally is completely different. The development team is using a separate matchmaking queue. Once players load into a session, everyone remains in PvE and cannot switch to PvP during the session. The only way to disable PvE is to switch the option before queueing from the main menu, after which players enter a separate server.

Risks of the PvE Test

The development team has also publicly listed several risks that this experiment could bring.

First, the economy could be affected. Friendly PvE players are more likely to extract successfully, and more successful extractions mean more value entering the economy. This is also why PvE loot will be reduced while PvPvE loot will be increased.

Matchmaking times could also become longer. Because the player pool is split, regions with lower populations may experience longer queue times, with the effect becoming more noticeable during off-peak hours. Even regions with larger populations could be affected. The development team said it will continue monitoring the situation throughout the test.

ARC Raiders was originally a PvE game, but it shifted toward PvPvE after the initial testing did not succeed. PvE removes much of the experience that was originally built around competition between players, which could reduce some of the fun and tension of the game.

Moreover, since peaceful and friendly players may move into PvE sessions, the players remaining on PvP servers could be more aggressive overall. This could make the environment in the standard mode more hostile, with players encountering rats more frequently.

Will PvE Mode Become Permanent?

The official team is also uncertain whether the PvE mode represents a better overall game experience. It has therefore emphasized that this test does not represent a commitment to having a PvE mode in the future, although the team is seriously considering it. Future versions could be completely different.

The development team needs to consider several questions:
- How much lower should PvE loot be?
- Will the reward progression system remain the same?
- Will Squad Queue selection work properly?
- What happens if PvE performs far beyond expectations?
- What happens if the PvPvE queue is significantly affected?
These questions could determine whether this PvE Mode remains a short-term test or becomes a permanent pillar of the game.

This PvE test will last only seven days. Anyone who plays during the test, whether they prefer PvP or PvE, can provide the official team with data and help reveal the impact of the PvE mode, which could influence future decisions. So remember to return and play during the test.
ARC Raiders Frozen Trail First Look Reveals Exciting New Content and Details: Pendola Pass Map, Frigate Vehicle, and More

With the official launch of ARC Raiders Frozen Trail just three weeks away, the development team offered a first look on September 23rd, revealing more details about the update.

The team describes Frozen Trail as the largest update in the game's history since launch. It brings a massive amount of new content and includes significant upgrades to core game mechanics, among other features.

Based on the first look and other known information, we've put together a preliminary preview of Frozen Trail. Let's see how the new content compares to community speculation and satisfy your curiosity!

New map Pendola Pass and environmental mechanics

Previously, there was speculation that the new map accompanying the update would also be named Frozen Trail (much like Riven Tides). However, the first look revealed that the new core map is officially named Pendola Pass.

Located north of Rust Belt, this is a brand-new, unexplored region where Raiders have yet to set foot; it is currently the largest map in ARC Raiders.

Early impressions suggest a diverse range of terrain. The map features expansive open-field battlegrounds, tight indoor close-quarters combat zones, and areas with significant verticality, all designed to enrich and add fun to the combat gameplay.

To tie in with the frozen theme, the team designed a mechanic for Pendola Pass called Flash Freeze. Unlike standard map conditions that trigger at set times, Flash Freeze occurs randomly during a match and is temporary.

More specifically, Flash Freeze is a sudden, extreme cold snap. Once it hits, it deals intense freezing damage or inflicts other debuffs over a short period.

To avoid these effects, you must quickly find and enter indoor facilities scattered across the map for shelter. If you are forced to remain outdoors, you should equip specific ARC Raiders items to provide extra protection against the cold.

Core ARC vehicle: Frigate

High above Pendola Pass map, a massive patrolling ARC vehicle known as Frigate will appear. It is currently one of the largest ARC vehicles in the game.

As it is a vehicle, Frigate is not a standard enemy that will directly attack you. It is a massive warship that both you and ARC forces can board; it conceals both enemies and abundant loot.

To profit from ARC Raiders Frigate, you must forcibly board the vessel, solve puzzles, navigate holographic exploration routes, and prepare to face various types of ARC enemies, both old and new.

Given the incredibly rich loot hidden inside Frigate, fierce PvP battles are inevitable alongside PvE encounters. Deciding whether to cooperate to clear the objective or turn against one another presents an intriguing choice.

In other words, Frigate is less of a standard enemy and more of a micro-map designed around a warship vehicle.

While the first look didn't go into detail, rumors and datamining suggest Frigate may appear on multiple maps, rather than being restricted solely to Pendola Pass.

Three new ARC enemy types

In addition to Frigate vehicle, Frozen Trail update introduces three new ARC enemy types: Bully, Skulker, and Hydra.

Bully is a heavily armored ground unit that combines the mobility of Leaper with the heavy machine-gun firepower of Bastion. Preliminary analysis suggests its weak point is its legs; hitting them makes the unit more likely to stagger.

Skulker is a smaller, more agile ARC unit equipped with a burst-fire turret on its back. Thanks to its compact size, it excels at staying concealed during combat, requiring you to remain vigilant and eliminate it quickly.

The third new enemy type is Hydra. It normally remains in a retracted, disc-like state but unfolds during combat to reveal three pairs of gun barrels. This grants it multi-target locking capabilities, allowing it to engage multiple Raiders simultaneously.

Personal base expansion: Raider Outpost

Previously, ARC Raiders lacked a dedicated base for your character; there was only a rudimentary Raider Den based on Speranza, which offered limited functionality and storage for furniture.

Frozen Trail update upgrades this Den into an Outpost, designed to provide a highly customizable, personal space.

Here, you can explore the game's lore, manage character progression and assets, craft and arrange furniture and decorations, and even expand the facility with additional, interesting functional modules.

More importantly, Outpost will feature a new research bench alongside the existing crafting system, allowing you to upgrade weapons to Ascended tier, essentially a Level 5 upgrade.

New gear and crafting system upgrades

To craft these Level 5 weapons using the new Ascended Weapons mechanic, you must complete specific challenges at Outpost's research bench and expend rare materials to unlock unique upgrade paths for specific pieces of gear.

These upgrades go beyond simple stat boosts; they represent comprehensive functional enhancements. For instance, Burletta can be modified for fully automatic fire, while Renegade can be fitted with a scope.

However, note that not all existing gear is compatible with Ascended system. Upon the launch of ARC Raiders: Frozen Trail, support will be available for 15 weapons, with the eligible roster expanding over time.

Additionally, Frozen Trail introduces two brand-new weapons: Stiletto and Banttom. The former uses light ammo and offers superior range and shield-breaking capabilities, while the latter delivers higher lethality at close range and features a unique hip-fire animation.

Beyond performance enhancements, ARC Raiders is introducing a weapon skin system for gear customization. Be warned, however: if you are defeated by another player, your gear, along with its skin, will be confiscated by the enemy.

Other new items

ARC Raiders: Frozen Trail also significantly expands the game's tactical movement and interaction options. New additions include a throwable grappling hook that adheres to surfaces, enabling climbing, rappelling, and swinging across gaps.

There is also a zipline launcher for creating connections between two points, as well as a cable grenade that can grab nearby heavy objects to slam into the ground or forcibly pull enemies out of cover.

Further additions include playable musical instruments and an in-game camera feature, previously announced at Gamescom 2026, which supports selfies and various standard photography settings.

Raider Decks overhaul

The removal of Cred system a few weeks ago signals a major overhaul of the game's progression and reward systems by ARC Raiders development team.

This first look reveals that the game's battle pass system is evolving into a new three-tiered structure: a free Legacy Pass based on Raider Decks, a standard Free Pass, and a Premium Pass. Additionally, there is a higher-tier Collector's Pack.

More than just a first look

Beyond what was shown in the first look, ARC Raiders development team will host a Q&A livestream later this Friday to address player questions regarding Frozen Trail, and perhaps reveal even more details.

It is safe to say that, starting this week, the momentum ARC Raiders lost over the past six months could quickly return. How will Frozen Trail ultimately perform? Let's wait and see!
ARC Raiders Store Update 1.47.0 Tightens Shared License Restrictions and Teases Frozen Trail First Look Ahead of October 8!

ARC Raiders Store Update 1.47.0 is now live! This update introduces two brand-new colorways for Riposta outfit, fixes various bugs to further improve overall stability, and includes a new round of anti-cheat system upgrades.

However, the highlight of this update is undoubtedly Frozen Trail first look. The developers will premiere this special preview on their official YouTube channel on September 23 at 10:00 AM PDT, revealing details about what promises to be the game's largest update to date.

Frozen Trail First Look: The Biggest Reveal Before the October 8 Launch

While specific details of Frozen Trail first look haven't been officially unveiled yet, we can glean the general direction of this major update from the roadmap previously shared by the developers.

The released teaser focuses on a close-up of the legs of a massive new ARC enemy. Although its full form and specific mechanics remain unknown, the footage hints that Frozen Trail may introduce a heavy unit capable of shifting the pace of battle.

According to previously released information, a key feature of Frozen Trail is a brand-new map. Set in a frozen settlement nestled beneath the mountains at the edge of Rust Belt, the area - once home to a village, factories, research facilities, and an observatory - now lies in ruins.

In terms of level design, the new map emphasizes verticality and depth of exploration. Players must contend with threats not only on the surface but also deep underground, navigating various elevations and environments to scavenge resources and plot their routes.

Additionally, a high-difficulty ARC Operation designed for veteran Raiders will launch alongside Frozen Trail. Described by the developers as centering on meaningful choices, dynamic encounters, and moments requiring cooperation and careful judgment, the operation will force players to make strategic trade-offs between combat, teamwork, risk management, and ultimate survival.

The introduction of a new ARC enemy is another major highlight of this update. Officials previously revealed that the new enemies will span a range of sizes and behaviors - from small but tricky troublemakers to massive machines capable of stopping players in their tracks. Given the towering mechanical figures seen in the trailer, this aspect is likely to be key to how Frozen Trail alters the current combat pacing.

Meanwhile, the progression system is set for significant adjustments. The reward mechanics for Raider Decks will be integrated into a more comprehensive reward system, scheduled to launch alongside this update.

Of course, these details are currently based on previously announced plans; the actual map scale, specific mechanics of the new ARC units, and more will only be confirmed during the livestream on the 23rd. This makes the upcoming first look a highly anticipated reveal ahead of the official launch on October 8.

Store Update 1.47.0: Paving the Way for Frozen Trail

As Frozen Trail first look approaches, Update 1.47.0 does not introduce major new gameplay features; instead, it focuses on stability, the player experience, and the continued optimization of a fair competitive environment. In other words, this version serves primarily as preparation for the upcoming major content update.

Further Strengthening Anti-Cheat Measures

In this update, the developers highlighted their recent efforts regarding fair play.

Officials stated that the team has recently carried out multiple rounds of bans targeting accounts exhibiting bot-like behavior. They plan to expand the scope of detection, including identifying activities such as abnormal XP farming in the future. At the same time, they are continuously monitoring and addressing actions that impact the game economy, such as the transfer of unusually high-value ARC Raiders items and item duplication.

Additionally, the studio is tightening restrictions related to shared licenses. If an account is sanctioned for cheating, associated licenses may face further restrictions, making it more difficult for cheaters to re-enter the game by purchasing or using other accounts.

Regarding the ban mechanism, officials also announced an expansion of the scope for first-strike permanent bans. The team aims to take faster action against violations where detection confidence is sufficiently high.

Stability and Bug Fixes

Beyond fair play, Store Update 1.47.0 includes several adjustments to game stability.

This update fixes an issue that could cause the game to crash when the server shut down and improves crash detection and diagnostic tools. For PS5 version, fixes have been implemented to address frequent crashes related to the physics engine, and the stability of the inventory interface has been further improved.

Regarding performance, the developers fixed an issue where inventory item tooltips could retain stale data. Previously, this issue could cause memory usage to gradually increase during extended play sessions, thereby compromising stability over time.

Additionally, various minor issues - such as those involving keyboard input, door synchronization, item trading, and backpack containers - have been resolved. For instance, a bug where keyboard input might fail after returning to the game from the background or launching it while the window was out of focus has been fixed; synchronization issues where doors appeared open to the player but remained closed in reality have also been corrected.

On the map front, the issue of abnormally dark lighting in Buried City has been improved, and certain visual glitches in Riven Tides have been fixed. Meanwhile, incorrect color rendering for various objects - including lockers, toolboxes, office chairs, vehicles, treasure chests, and shipping containers - has been addressed.

Other Noteworthy Updates

Beyond the fixes included in this update, the developers are reminding players to claim the community-created Rubber Ducks. Distribution of the reward emails will cease after October 8; players who have not yet claimed them must log in and do so before the deadline.

Furthermore, the registration window for the fifth Expedition is closing soon; players need to complete their preparations by 1:00 AM PT on September 29. The developers have specifically noted that there will be no Last Call phase this time, meaning late registration via an additional period will not be possible.

Overall, Store Update 1.47.0 serves as a period of refinement and reinforcement ahead of the official launch of Frozen Trail. It balances ongoing adjustments to anti-cheat measures, stability, and the general player experience with the steady release of teasers regarding Frozen Trail content. Specific details about this frozen map, the new ARC, and ARC Operation will be revealed during the upcoming first look.
ARC Raiders Frozen Trail First Look Coming on September 23: Data-Mined Content Credibility to be Revealed!

After six months of build-up and various teasers, and alongside the confirmed final launch date, ARC Raiders recently announced that a first look at Frozen Trail update, revealing further details, will drop on September 23rd.

In fact, eager players have already used in-game data mining and other methods to uncover potential content coming with Frozen Trail. While the reliability of these findings remains unconfirmed, they are certainly worth noting.

Below, we combine official updates with community insights to predict what Frozen Trail, or rather, the first look arriving in three days, might reveal.

What clues does the brief teaser offer?

On September 19th, the official ARC Raiders social media channels released a very short video, less than twenty seconds long, primarily to announce Frozen Trail first look.

However, the video itself contains significant information. It shows a section of a massive ARC machine, though it is unclear if it has toppled over or been completely destroyed. Given the stark white background, this ARC structure might also be part of the new map.

This could be a preview of new enemies or map details, or simply a teaser shot that doesn't necessarily reflect the final in-game experience.

One thing is certain, however: at the end of the teaser, the development team showcased a new gear set that is expected to launch alongside Frozen Trail.

The set features a distinct winter aesthetic, incorporating cold-weather elements like padded jackets and fur lining. Additionally, the helmet's visor sports a polarized finish, giving the entire outfit a stunning look.

A closer inspection reveals even more details, such as intricate wiring on the forearms. You can even spot a pickaxe at the waist, possibly a piece of gear you'll be able to use in ARC Raiders in the future.

Beyond the set itself, the promotional image offers a glimpse of the new map on the right side. The area appears to be blanketed in snow and features numerous large-scale structures.

What surprises did data mining uncover?

As the first major patch following ARC Raiders' shift in update cadence, Frozen Trail promises a wealth of new content. With the official launch date approaching, some of these details appear to be already hidden within the current game.

A PvE-only mode

Since the launch of ARC Raiders, there has been persistent demand for a dedicated PvE mode; this anticipation was further fueled by the introduction of the Rebellion mode, which leans heavily toward PvE, in Chinese server version.

In the game files for Update 1.45.0, players discovered references to a PvE-only mode: a flag controlling PvE-exclusive matchmaking was found set to off and added to the list of default feature flags.

Additionally, data miners uncovered PvE-specific social options, UI elements labeled for PvE-only play, and even configuration settings for round-based loot in PvE mode, suggesting that a potential PvE-only mode might feature its own independent loot pool.

However, these remain preliminary speculations; it is still unknown whether the mode will actually launch during Frozen Trail season or what form it might take.

One thing is certain: if these predictions prove true, the game's gear meta could shift significantly. After all, weapons that underperform in PvPvE environments might prove far more effective in a PvE-only mode.

Given the likelihood of new gear being introduced, if you want to explore the new maps or mechanics efficiently during Frozen Trail, you should buy ARC Raiders items when necessary to ensure your gear setup doesn't hold you back.

A new ARC: Frigate

It was already known that ARC Raiders would introduce new enemy types in Frozen Trail. Now, data mining suggests one of these enemies could be a ship-like ARC boss named Frigate, appearing on every map except Stella Montis.

Frigate's hull appears to feature various interactive elements, including ziplines, buttons, hatches, and specific weak points. This implies that players may need to complete objectives inside Frigate rather than simply engaging it in direct combat.

Data indicates that when Frigate spawns on the map, it patrols while dropping cargo, though the timing intervals and trigger mechanisms for these drops remain unclear.

What is the sky bucket?

According to the game's lore, there is no direct underground tunnel network leading to Frozen Trail. Consequently, players must cobble together various traversal devices to cross the mountains and reach or leave the area.

The sky bucket is one such potential device. It functions similarly to extraction points on other maps, yet there are a few key differences. First, the sky bucket has limited seating, meaning there is a cap on how many players can extract at once, it isn't an option available for immediate, unlimited use.

It remains unclear whether there is a limit on how many times the sky bucket can be summoned or if there is a cooldown period, though it likely requires a specific method to activate. Additionally, the descent takes time, and the landing spot is not fixed.

What might the new map look like?

Based on available information, Frozen Trail map shares similar environmental conditions with the previous Cold Snap map condition, featuring heavy snow and cold waves throughout.

While data mining only reveals an early prototype version of the map, it offers a rough idea of its scale and layout. It appears comparable in length to Spaceport but is wider.

Furthermore, the map features a flash freeze mechanic, which seems to be an upgraded version of Cold Snap mechanic. The system announces where a flash freeze is forming and marks nearby shelters, accompanied by voice prompts.

The difference between a flash freeze and a cold snap is that the former spreads from a specific point on the map and moves toward the other side, whereas a Cold Snap persists in a fixed location once it spawns. The slowing effect and damage caused by a flash freeze are likely far more severe than those of Cold Snap.

That covers everything for now. Some of these details have been officially confirmed, while others remain speculative, though we can expect more concrete information once the first look is released! Stay tuned!
ARC Raiders Store Update 1.46.0 Adds New Boonie Set Colorways and Urges You to Finish Season 5 Final Trials!
In keeping with routine and the plan announced last week to release a small update prior to Frozen Trail, ARC Raiders has launched Update 1.46.0 this week.

This update focuses on the in-game store, introducing two new color schemes for Boonie Set. It also provides a recap of the previously launched Ascending the Mountain project and Trials Season 5.

Here, we focus on these updates to bring you a guide on how to make the most of this week in ARC Raiders following the release of Update 1.46.0.

New color schemes for Boonie Set

ARC Raiders Boonie Set consists of four components: a cape, headgear, a mask, and a water tank. Originally available in Yellow, Green/Red, and Turquoise Glow, Update 1.46.0 adds a Black and Green Camo variant.

While outfits do not provide combat stat bonuses, they allow you to craft a specific visual style. That said, wearing a set that matches the surrounding environment might help you blend in better.

The release of new colors for this specific set ahead of Frozen Trail launch suggests that these new combinations could create a striking look within the new map environment.

Continuing Ascending the Mountain

Launched last week, this project runs until October 5 and comprises four stages, giving you roughly three weeks to complete it. You earn specific ARC Raiders items as rewards for fulfilling the material submission requirements of each stage.

Although the schedule suggests these rewards are primarily intended to help meet the damage output requirements for Expedition 5 launch window, you might also want to hold onto high-value weapons or blueprints to give yourself a head start in Frozen Trail.

Wrapping Up Trials Season 5

Unlike previous transitions, there is no seamless handover between ARC Raiders Trials Season 5 and Season 6; instead, there is a gap of about two weeks. Season 5 Trials conclude on September 22, while Season 6 will not begin until Frozen Trail goes live.

Consequently, this is not only the eleventh week of Trials Season 5 but also the final one. Successfully completing this week's trials earns you not just the standard trial rewards, but also additional prizes based on your ranking at the end of the season.

Simply completing Trials Season 5 earns you the new Scorta outfit, but achieving a higher rank unlocks additional variants and color schemes. In addition to the set, you will receive:
- Backpack: Green Bruiser
- Backpack Charm: Pressure Gauge
- Backpack attachment: Hydraulic Pump
- Emote: Come at me
How to complete Season 5 Week 11 Trials?

This week's trials follow the usual format, consisting of five specific tasks. Generally, ARC Raiders trials aren't overly dangerous; the challenge lies more in their complexity. However, this time, one of the tasks requires you to attack Queens or Matriarchs.

Damage ARC enemies using Deadline

Deadline is an in-game mine; once deployed, it has a six-second countdown, during which you must retreat as far as possible to avoid the massive blast radius.

This item deals lethal damage to most ARCs. Due to its high power, it is rare and difficult to find while scavenging, so it is primarily obtained through crafting.

It is worth noting that the reward for Stage 3 of Ascending The Mountain includes two Deadlines, so it is best to complete that stage as soon as possible.

Open ARC Probes

ARC Probes are non-hostile ARC units found across the maps. Completely destroying one yields valuable crafting materials as loot, but attacking it triggers a distress signal that draws in other PvE enemies.

Normally, these probes remain on the ground for only seven minutes before flying away. However, once you interact with one, it will not fly away for the remainder of its duration, regardless of what happens.

Completing this task isn't difficult; the key is to minimize encounters with the swarms of ARCs that gather. It is recommended to retreat quickly after opening a probe, or to resolve any necessary combat swiftly.

You can employ a touch-and-go strategy: run up to the probe, initiate the hacking sequence, and then leave to find the next one.

The map area you need to explore is vast; as long as ARC Probes don't fly away, you can easily return later to finish them all off.

Damage Queens or Matriarchs

Although this task carries a higher risk, you can complete it in conjunction with the first task. In other words, provided you can retreat in time, you can plant Deadline explosives on Queens or Matriarchs to deal massive damage.

Of course, if you aim to complete the mission with a three-star rating, you should plant Deadline on the enemy's weak points and ideally supplement the attack with other mines or weapons.

Damage ARC enemies in Red Lakes

Red Lakes is a specific area on the east side of Dam Battlegrounds map; you can easily reach it by locating Control Tower. This mission requires you to eliminate a sufficient number of PvE enemies in this area.

Damage ARC using Hullcracker

Hullcracker is a special pump-action grenade launcher that uses unique Launcher Ammo; it detonates upon impact, dealing increased damage.

Interestingly, the reward for Stage 3 of Ascending The Mountain includes 30 rounds of Launcher Ammo, making this project a perfect opportunity to complete Season 5 Week 11 trials!

Overall, there isn't much to worry about regarding this week's update itself; the key is to complete the trials as soon as possible. If you find any of the missions tricky, be sure to team up with others to get them done!
Will ARC Raiders Continue to Optimize ABMM Matchmaking to Deliver a Better Frozen Trail Experience?

During the nearly six-month hiatus leading up to Frozen Trail launch, ARC Raiders development team focused heavily on optimizing underlying mechanics, most notably, ABMM matchmaking system, in addition to occasional project updates.

In traditional extraction shooters, teammates are often assigned randomly, with no guarantee of compatibility or friendly cooperation. To mitigate the risks associated with such systems, ARC Raiders introduced ABMM matchmaking mechanism.

This system aims to match you with teammates or opponents who share a similar playstyle based on your individual in-game performance; however, achieving the ideal balance requires ongoing fine-tuning by the development team.

While Update 1.39.0 (released in late July) introduced significant optimizations, many players feel the system has yet to reach an ideal state.

As Frozen Trail launch approaches, will the team tweak ABMM system again beforehand, or wait until the new content stabilizes? Here is our analysis.

Current state of ABMM Matchmaking

ARC Raiders ABMM system operates on a continuous sliding scale, calculating matches based on behavioral patterns observed across multiple sessions to group players with similar tendencies.

At the same time, the system retains an element of randomness to ensure the game maintains the necessary level of excitement and tension.

Casual players generally report high satisfaction with the system, as it successfully creates lobbies with lower aggression levels, allowing them to focus on environmental exploration and PvE combat.

However, the experience is often less than ideal for hardcore players who prefer PvP.

These players tend to favor frequent firefights and looting, environments where the prevalence of cheating is often higher.

Furthermore, in the high-PvP environments fostered by ABMM, players wishing to switch up their style or focus temporarily on PvE objectives often face constant harassment, which hampers efficiency.

Although Update 1.39.0 clarified that self-defense in PvP does not count as aggressive action, the system still faces ambiguity in complex combat scenarios.

Additionally, your experience can be affected if your teammates have a different playstyle profile than yours.

Potential impact of Frozen Trail on matchmaking

While ARC Raiders has not yet released full details, it is confirmed that Frozen Trail update will introduce a new map, new ARCs, and Outposts, player-base-derived spaces.

A key feature of the new map is the blizzard; this will inevitably obscure visibility, likely increasing the frequency of sudden skirmishes and accidental fire.

Furthermore, the launch of Frozen Trail will draw in newcomers and returning veterans. This expansion of the matchmaking pool, and the resulting dilution of player behavior data, may lead to short-term fluctuations in the matchmaking experience.

Further adjustments likely after Frozen Trail launch

With the release of Update 1.45.0 this week, the developers indicated that only one minor update would precede Frozen Trail, and that update is unlikely to include significant matchmaking changes.

We therefore anticipate that the development team will implement further optimizations later on to align with the new gameplay mechanics introduced in Frozen Trail and to address the community's accumulated dissatisfaction with the current ABMM Matchmaking system.

Currently, the matchmaking system relies on aggregate statistics derived from your behavior across the entire map. However, the influx of new players and content means that even casual players may find themselves inevitably drawn into firefights in high-value zones.

Consequently, ARC Raiders might lower the penalty weighting for such combat encounters. This would prevent the awkward situation where a player is labeled aggressive simply for vying for high-value loot on the new map.

The developers will also likely address issues such as the misclassification of self-defense as aggression and accidental friendly fire during cooperative combat, ensuring a better overall experience in Frozen Trail.

Potential solutions could include refining the criteria for identifying legitimate self-defense and allowing for independent combat-style weighting when fighting as part of a squad.

To safeguard the interests and experience of PvP players, and to prevent players from avoiding PvP modes solely to steer clear of cheaters, ARC Raiders should also upgrade its anti-cheat measures alongside Frozen Trail launch.

Finally, beyond tweaking existing algorithms, ARC Raiders could shape player behavior by introducing new mechanics, such as placing bounties on aggressive PvP players or offering reputation boosts for assisting teammates or strangers.

Summary

Recent plans for ARC Raiders, specifically the move to scrap Cred in favor of a new reward system, indicate that the development team intends to use Frozen Trail update not only to introduce new content but also to refine the game's core mechanics.

ABMM Matchmaking is a pivotal factor in the player experience; it, too, should be adjusted during this period to better align with the game's evolving trajectory and underlying logic, rather than remaining merely an idealized concept.

The developers have recently stated that, despite the typically short lifespans of games in this genre, they aim to build ARC Raiders into a long-term project capable of running for at least a decade.

Achieving this goal requires more than just periodic updates to gameplay and maps; the game's core systems and operational framework must remain reliable and capable of evolving with the times. ABMM Matchmaking plays a crucial role in this regard.

Of course, the idea that ARC Raiders will optimize its matchmaking system alongside Frozen Trail update is merely our speculation.

That said, if you want to avoid unnecessary confrontations on the new map, you should start paying attention to your playstyle now and adjust your behavioral weighting accordingly!

Matchmaking is just one piece of the puzzle; to ensure the best possible experience at all times, having ample resources is essential, so be sure to buy ARC Raiders items whenever the need arises!

This is especially important following the launch of Frozen Trail, as the initial phase of the new environment will make locating valuable supplies more difficult and time-consuming. Being prepared in advance will give you a head start and a distinct advantage!