ARC Raiders Details Major “Headwinds” Update for January 2026 — and the Birds Are Taking Over

The third major update for ARC Raiders is set to launch on January 27, bringing a substantial wave of new features and gameplay adjustments to the popular live-service extraction shooter. ARC Raiders burst onto the scene toward the end of last year and quickly established itself as one of the most successful new game releases of 2025, attracting a rapidly growing player base. Much of that success can be attributed to Embark Studios’ steady cadence of updates, which continue to refine the experience while introducing fresh content.

Since launch, ARC Raiders has received frequent post-release support, addressing technical issues while expanding its core gameplay. In November, the North Line update introduced the Stella Montis map, new ARCs to battle, and additional gameplay systems. That momentum continued in December with the Cold Snap update, which transformed maps with snow-covered environments and seasonal changes. Now, players are preparing for the next big step forward with the Headwinds update, arriving on January 27.

Headwinds Update Brings New Matchmaking Options ⚙️

With the Headwinds update, ARC Raiders will roll out several matchmaking improvements designed to give players more flexibility and control over how they play. One of the key additions is Open Parties, allowing friends to join one another between matches without friction. Alongside this, Squad Invites will make it easier to invite other players directly through the game interface.

Perhaps the most impactful change, however, is the introduction of Solo vs. Squads, a new matchmaking option unlocked at level 40. Players who choose to enter matches alone against full squads will be rewarded with bonus XP, compensating for the significantly higher difficulty. This option is aimed squarely at experienced players looking for a more intense, high-risk challenge.

The Birds Are Taking Over the Buried City 🐦

The Headwinds update also introduces a unique twist to the Buried City map through a new rotating map condition. Flocks of birds will now appear across the area, leaving valuable items on rooftops and chimneys. This mechanic encourages players to explore vertical spaces and lesser-visited locations, subtly reshaping map flow and decision-making.

These bird-driven loot drops are also expected to increase player encounters, as multiple squads converge on the same high-value areas. Given how central player interaction is to ARC Raiders’ identity, this change could significantly raise tension levels and make Buried City matches even more unpredictable and intense.

Note: Another addition arriving with the Headwinds update is the ARC Trophy Display, a new system that allows players to turn in ARC parts for progression rewards. These rewards include items, cosmetics, achievements, blueprints, and Raider Tokens, further expanding long-term progression.

Headwinds Is Just the Beginning of 2026 🌊

Ahead of the January update, Embark Studios released a 2026 roadmap, outlining a steady stream of content planned for the months ahead. Following Headwinds, players can expect the Shrouded Sky update in February, introducing extreme weather conditions, a new ARC enemy, and additional gameplay changes.

March will bring the Flashpoint update, before the season culminates in April with Riven Tides. The Riven Tides update is particularly notable, as it will introduce a brand-new map, offering fresh environments and new strategic possibilities for players to master.

Taken together, these updates highlight Embark Studios’ commitment to maintaining a strong and consistent content pipeline. With major features, environmental changes, and entirely new maps on the way, ARC Raiders appears well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory throughout 2026.