The new “Cold Snap” update brings freezing temperatures, fresh gameplay mechanics, and additional rewards to Arc Raiders.
Embark Studios has announced the second major content update for Arc Raiders. Below, we break down everything you need to know about the new survival systems, seasonal events, and the brand-new Raider Deck.
Arc Raiders Cold Snap: Release Time and Platforms
According to Embark Studios, the Cold Snap update launches on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. It follows the same global rollout schedule as the previous “North Line” update, which also went live simultaneously worldwide.
Here are the regional release times:
- 10:30 a.m. CEST (Central Europe/Berlin)
- 4:30 a.m. New York (EDT)
- 1:30 a.m. Los Angeles (PDT)
- 9:30 a.m. London (BST)
- 5:30 p.m. Japan (JST)
- 6:30 p.m. Australia (AEST)
- 4:30 p.m. China (CST)
- 4:30 a.m. Canada (EDT, e.g. Toronto)
What Is Cold Snap?
Cold Snap is a limited-time winter event running from December 16, 2025, through January 13, 2026. It introduces snowstorms, frozen lakes, and an entirely new survival mechanic to Speranza.
According to Embark Studios, Cold Snap significantly changes the feel of the game. For the first time, Raiders are forced to actively protect themselves against the environment. The cold directly affects gameplay: if you stay exposed for too long, you’ll suffer frostbite—a status effect that slowly drains your health.
To counter this, teams will need to seek shelter more often, bring new gear, or use healing mechanics more strategically. Visibility is also heavily reduced due to snowfall. The maps “Dam Battleground,” “The Buried City,” “The Spaceport,” and “The Blue Gate” have all received visual overhauls and now feature icy layers, snowdrifts, and other wintery details.
The New Raider Deck: Goalie Edition
Starting December 26, the new “Goalie” Raider Deck will be available for free to all Raiders who own either edition of Arc Raiders. The deck includes an ice hockey–inspired outfit in multiple color variants, a hockey stick tool as a new cosmetic item, plus additional Raider Tokens and customization items. Unlike the limited-time events, the Goalie Deck is permanently available and can be completed at any time.
Two Events With Exclusive Rewards
Alongside Cold Snap, two major seasonal events will go live from December 16, 2025, to January 13, 2026.
Flickering Flames Event
This event features 25 progression tiers and is aimed at experienced Raiders looking to prove their endurance and survival skills. To participate, you’ll need to complete five matches first. After that, you can unlock rewards by collecting the event currency “Merits,” which you earn automatically through XP. Rewards include new gear, cosmetic items, and Raider Tokens.
Candleberry Banquet Project
This project revolves around collecting Candleberries—rare items found on the surface. The project consists of five stages, each revealing a new scene on a winter-themed banquet table. Completing a stage rewards you with cosmetic items, Merits (which also count toward the Flickering Flames Event), and Raider Tokens.
Expedition Project: How the Seasonal Progress Reset Works
With the launch of the new update, the window for the seasonal wipe also opens. We explain how to complete the Expedition Project (guide) and use the option to reset your Raider in the linked walkthrough. While you’ll lose your current progress, you’ll gain exclusive buffs, perks, and rewards for your next run. The reset is optional and aimed at players looking for a fresh challenge or a clean start with a new character.
For more tips, guides, and videos, be sure to check out our Arc Raiders guide hub.
