Arc Raiders Roadmap Extends Content Through Early 2026 With Cold Snap Update

The Arc Raiders roadmap now extends into early 2026, with Embark Studios confirming a sequence of updates that began in late 2025 and continues through mid-January. The current roadmap does not introduce a full 2026 outline, but it does define the immediate direction of the extraction shooter following its strong launch period. The Cold Snap update, running from December 16 to January 13, anchors the present phase of development and sets expectations for ongoing additions beyond that window.

Arc Raiders has maintained momentum since release, and the roadmap frames that success around steady content delivery rather than abrupt seasonal resets. According to Embark, the 2025 roadmap carries into the opening weeks of 2026, with further updates planned but not yet detailed. The studio has confirmed that additional map conditions, events, and cosmetic expansions are in development, alongside system-level changes.

Cold Snap is the second major content drop following the Northline update in November. Unlike Northline, which introduced the Stella Montis map, Cold Snap does not add a new playable area. Instead, it focuses on environmental variation, quests, and limited-time activities. The update introduces a Snowfall map condition that alters surface conditions and introduces frostbite mechanics. These changes affect traversal and survival during expeditions rather than enemy behavior alone.

Five new quests are included in Cold Snap: A Toxic Trail, Paving the Way, The Stench of Corruption, The Clean Dream, and Groundbreaking. These quests expand the existing progression structure without adding a new narrative hub. The update also adds the Flickering Flames event and the Candleberry Banquet project, both tied to the seasonal theme. A new Goalie Raider Deck battle pass is included, offering hockey-themed cosmetics. Embark has confirmed the deck is free.

Image: Embark Studios

The roadmap also reflects adjustments to core systems. Cold Snap refreshes the expedition departure window, modifying how often players can deploy. This change is intended to regulate pacing during high-traffic periods without altering extraction rules.

Northline, released on November 13, remains the largest update to date. It introduced the Stella Montis map, a community event that unlocked access to the location, and a dedicated reward track. New ARC machines, the Matriarch and Shredder, were added alongside the Aphelion legendary battle rifle. Three quests—In My Image, Cold Storage, and Snap and Salvage—were tied directly to the new map. That update established the cadence reflected in the current roadmap: a major release followed by smaller, focused updates.

Embark has been restrained in outlining long-term specifics, but it has confirmed that content development will continue throughout 2026. Planned additions include new map conditions and ARC threats, as well as broader gameplay features. The studio framed the roadmap as an initial phase rather than a complete plan.

“We are so thankful to have you on this journey with us, and we will continue to refine and grow the game with your feedback in mind,” Embark Studios said alongside the roadmap release. “Keep your eyes on the horizon. This is only the beginning of what is in store for Arc Raiders.” — Embark Studios

No new roadmap document for 2026 has been released as of early January, but Embark has stated that the current outline carries forward until mid-January. The absence of a full-year plan suggests a preference for shorter planning cycles tied to live player data rather than fixed seasonal commitments.

Arc Raiders launched in October and has avoided the sharp population drops seen in several recent multiplayer releases. Its roadmap reflects that stability, emphasizing iteration over overhaul. Cold Snap reinforces that approach by expanding existing systems instead of replacing them, while leaving room for larger changes later in the year.

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