Summary
- ARC Raiders will release the Cold Snap update on December 16, 2025 at 1:30AM PT / 4:30AM ET.
- Introduces a new snowfall map condition transforming existing maps with winter weather, reduced visibility and trackable footprints.
- Offers new quests, a Flickering Flames event, and a premium Raider Deck plus gameplay changes.
ARC Raiders is coming up with an update before the Christmas holiday arrives! The upcoming Cold Snap update brings winter-themed content including new mechanics, quests, events, and more. The ARC Raiders Cold Snap update sets to release on December 16, and here’s everything you need to know.
Cold Snap Update Release Date and Times
ARC Raiders is having the Cold Snap update this coming December 16, 2025. Although the developers haven’t confirmed the exact release time, it is suggested to follow previous release times. The recent North Line update went live at 1:30AM PT, an early morning rollout for US players.
On the other hand, players in other regions can expect similar times as the previous release as follows:
-
- 4:30AM ET
- 9:30AM UTC
- 10:30AM CET
- 3:00PM IST
- 5:30PM CST (China Standard Time)
- 6:30PM JST
- 8:30PM AEDT
New Snowfall Map Condition
The highlight of the Cold Snap update is its completely new snowfall map condition. This dramatically changes how players will approach combat and exploration. Unlike previous updates, it won’t add an entirely new map to the current game’s roster.
Rather, its winter weather system will only rotate across existing maps, covering them in heavy snow. You might need to consider these changes during raids as it will affect how your operation goes. Heavy snowfall will reduce visibility across affected areas, making long-range engagements more difficult.
Plus, the snowy conditions will muffle the sounds that turn encounters unpredictable. Also, Raiders will notably leave their footprints in the snow which makes their movement trackable. It can help your opponents in setting up ambushes or avoiding confrontations entirely.
So far, the developers haven’t officially confirmed which maps will feature the snowfall condition for Cold Snap update. Some speculate Buried City and Blue Gate among the included maps for condition rotation. Also, the snowfall maps may offer increased loot value as an incentive for hazardous conditions.
Flickering Flames Event and New Quests
It will also introduce the Flickering Flames event, a community-driven challenge similar to the previous Breaking New Ground event. Here, you’ll need to contribute resources or complete specific tasks during raids to work toward a series of unlockable rewards. This also serves as a mini-battle pass for those who want to join but don’t have much time to play and unlock tiered rewards.
Alongside the event, you will get fresh quests to complete from traders in Speranza. These are likely to require you venturing the snowfall map condition and completing some objectives. Moreover, these will also provide you with additional incentive for your progression on the main story.
Premium Raider Deck and Additional Content
A premium Raider Deck also arrives as the latest seasonal battle pass. Its content includes cosmetics and other rewards useful throughout the game. However, you’ll likely need to purchase it with real money to unlock its full access. Or, you can use your existing Creds currency to obtain individual items after you unlock the premium status.
Conclusion
Not much left to wait before ARC Raiders release their Cold Snap update on December 16, 2025. It will add a very-much enjoyed winter content across the maps, including new quests, mechanics, cosmetics, and more. You can save currency as early as now to purchase the upcoming seasonal battle pass of the game.
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