ARC Raiders “Frozen Trail” 2.0 officially launched on October 8. This is the largest content update since the game’s release. Players are currently in the post-update adaptation period. The game is also running a free-to-play event (until October 12), with a limited-time PvE test scheduled for October 13–20. Understanding the current content and upcoming schedule will help players explore the new map and high-difficulty content with greater confidence.
As a major 2.0 update, the core features of “Frozen Trail” are now fully live and focus on the following key areas:
New Map
Shani has rallied Raiders to investigate anomalous signals on the other side of the mountains. The brand-new region Pendola Pass is a frozen Italian mountain village and former Exodus transport hub. It features significant elevation changes, numerous abandoned settlements, and far greater vertical complexity than existing maps. This is not a simple reskin—players will need to adapt their movement, cover usage, and extraction habits. Those accustomed to fixed farming routes should familiarize themselves with the new layout as soon as possible.
The map introduces Flash Freeze random weather events. When cold fronts sweep through the valley, players must quickly reach an Avalanche Shelter to avoid continuous cold damage. These shelters contain loot but may also attract other Raiders. Extraction has been adjusted to the Ballistic Gondola, which must be called by activating a transceiver. It holds only three players at a time and departs quickly—missing one means waiting for the next.
Pendola Pass is also testing Dynamic Loot Zones: the value of loot in a given area can change from raid to raid, while the loot type remains the same (for example, residential areas still yield residential-type items). This makes farming routes less predictable.
New Threats and High-Level Content
The update adds several new ARC units: the aggressive charging Bully, the stealthy ambusher Skulker, and the multi-turreted Hydra that guards the Frigate and the fallen Emperor. These enemies change the pace of combat and require players to adjust their strategies accordingly.
It also introduces the large-scale ARC Operation Frigate map condition, designed for experienced players. This content emphasizes dynamic encounters, squad coordination, and tactical decision-making rather than simple DPS checks. It places higher demands on survivability, communication, and resource management—players with inadequate loadouts will quickly find themselves at a disadvantage under pressure. A Redirection map condition is also included.
Limited-Time PvE Test
From October 13 to October 20, players can manually switch between PvPvE and PvE matchmaking pools after logging in. In PvE mode, players cannot damage one another. Solos, Duos, and Trios will be matched together to fight against ARC enemies.
Please note that four high-risk activities—Night Raids, Hidden Bunker, Locked Gate, and Frigate—will not be available in PvE mode. The developers state that these activities rely on the tension created by the uncertainty of encountering other players. Overall loot value in PvE mode will be reduced to balance the lack of PvP risk. Additionally, ARC enemies will continue to attack even after a player is downed; the downed state cannot be used to evade threats.
Most importantly, this is strictly a test. The developers have made it clear that the mode may not become a permanent feature, and future decisions will be based on player feedback and actual gameplay data.
Preparation Advice
When facing new maps, new enemies, and higher-difficulty content, your character’s level of preparation directly impacts your experience. Being fully equipped with optimized modules, ample resources, and key blueprints allows you to explore the frozen zones with greater confidence and handle sudden threats more effectively.
Blueprints are particularly crucial in this process. They unlock superior weapon performance, enhanced gear stats, and combat modules, serving as a key method to boost both survivability and damage output. Securing essential ARC Raiders blueprints and other useful items helps you adapt quickly to the new environment after the update, minimizing time wasted on trial and error.
If you need to stock up on ARC Raiders items, it is best to plan your list ahead of time to avoid progress setbacks caused by a lack of supplies.