The Frozen Trail update launches on October 8, 2026, and ARC Raiders players get a limited free-play window starting that day. Making it a major week for returning Raiders and newcomers alike.
The update adds Pendola Pass, the Frigate operation, new ARC enemies, the Reward Pass, Outpost progression, and more. Eligible players can access the full game during the limited-time free weekend.
Check out the official Frozen Trail announcement, then stick around for an in-depth look at what to expect in the upcoming update.
ARC Raiders Frozen Trail Release Date and Free Weekend
The ARC Raiders Frozen Trail update launches this month, alongside a limited free-play event. New and returning players can use this window to experience the full game, not just a restricted trial build.
When does the Frozen Trail update release?
Frozen Trail arrives on October 8, 2026, as a free content update for ARC Raiders.
The update adds the frozen Pendola Pass map, Frigate ARC operation, new enemies, Outposts, Amplified Weapons, and a Reward Pass. It also changes progression with a new pass structure and other systems.
When does the ARC Raiders free weekend start?
The ARC Raiders free weekend runs from October 8 at 09:00 UTC through October 12 at 08:00 UTC.
During the event, players can access the full game on supported platforms. This isn’t a permanent move to free-to-play. Players who join during the event shouldn’t mistake the free access for an unlimited version of ARC Raiders. The key times are:
| Event / Milestone | Date & Time | Details |
| Free-play starts | October 8, 2026 at 09:00 UTC | Free access period begins |
| Free-play ends | October 12, 2026 at 08:00 UTC | Free access period concludes |
| Total Duration | 4 Days | Full window of free event availability |
If you’re looking for the Arc Raiders free trial start time, it begins at 09:00 UTC on October 8.
Which platforms get free access?
The free-play event is available on Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation. To make the most of the four-day event, players should install the game and have it ready before the event begins.
During the promotional period, they’ll have access to the full game, not just a small introductory section.
What’s New in the ARC Raiders Frozen Trail Update?
Frozen Trail is more than just a new map drop: it brings a new exploration zone, a dedicated ARC operation, new enemy types, progression changes, gadgets, and several new weapons.
| New Content | Why It Matters |
| Pendola Pass | New frozen map and major exploration area |
| Frigate | New high-risk ARC operation |
| Bully | New aggressive ARC enemy |
| Skullker | New ambush-focused ARC enemy |
| Hydra | New multi-part turret threat |
| Outpost | New customizable progression space |
| Amplified Weapons | New fifth weapon quality tier |
| Reward Pass | New progression system |
| New weapons and gadgets | Adds fresh combat options |
That mix gives existing players several reasons to return to their usual routines. Newcomers get a much better entry point, too, since the free-play period lets them explore the systems alongside the new content.
Pendola Pass: The New Frozen Map
Pendola Pass is the centerpiece of Frozen Trail. It’s expected to give Raiders a new frozen environment to explore alongside the update’s other additions.
The area combines frozen mountains, an old Italian settlement, the Exodus transport hub, and the Fallen Emperor. Each has vertical and underground zones, along with dangerous flash-freeze conditions.
Movement, exploration, and survival all matter during Pendola Pass’s dynamic Flash-Freeze Blizzards, which deal frostbite damage over time unless Raiders take shelter or use thermal utility items.
Frigate ARC Operation: A New Endgame Challenge
The Frigate is a large ARC vessel that introduces a new high-risk operation for Raiders looking for tougher encounters.
Players must land on or climb atop the moving Frigate to sabotage its components and retrieve high-value loot while contending with other Raiders on its surface and upper structures.
New ARC Enemies: Bully, Skullker and Hydra
Frozen Trail introduces three notable ARC threats. Each poses a distinct combat challenge, so knowing what you’re facing matters before you push deeper into new areas.
- Bully: An aggressive ARC threat designed to pressure players at close range.
- Skullker: An ambush-focused enemy that can catch Raiders off guard.
- Hydra: A multi-part turret threat encountered aboard the Frigate.
These three names are the ones to know before jumping into Frozen Trail. The Hydra also deserves attention if you’re planning to tackle the Frigate operation.
ARC Raiders Reward Pass Explained
The Reward Pass replaces the previous Raider Deck progression system, offering players a new way to earn rewards and adding a separate premium track.
The Free Pass grants 200 Raider Tokens. The Premium Pass grants 1,150 Raider Tokens plus premium rewards. The Legacy Pass automatically converts all previous Raider Decks into a free permanent pass, retaining all earned items while letting players unlock any missed Raider Deck cosmetics.
What is the Reward Pass?
The Reward Pass gives Raiders a 60-level progression track that advances as they complete in-game Feats, offering both free and premium rewards. The main structure is:
- Free Pass: Includes gameplay and cosmetic rewards plus 200 Raider Tokens.
- Premium Pass: Adds premium rewards and 1,150 Raider Tokens.
- Legacy Pass: Preserves access to existing Raider Deck progression.
Check the Reward Pass when Frozen Trail launches, especially if you invested in the previous progression system. Before spending premium currency, make sure you want the rewards.
What happens to Cred?
Unused Raider Tokens and unspent Deck balances expire when Frozen Trail launches, making this a key task for existing players to address before October 8.
If you still have Cred sitting in your account, spend it before the update arrives rather than assuming it will carry forward. This is also a good time to review your resources and decide what you want to prioritize once the new content goes live.
For a broader look at which resources deserve priority, check the ARC Raiders Materials Priority List.
How to Play ARC Raiders During the October Free Weekend
The October free weekend gives new players access to the full game from October 8 at 09:00 UTC until October 12 at 08:00 UTC on Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation.
How to start the free trial
Getting into the event is straightforward:
- Open ARC Raiders on a supported platform during the free-play period.
- Install and launch the game.
- Start playing during the event window.
The important part is the timing. If you’re specifically searching for the Arc Raiders free trial start time, mark 09:00 UTC on October 8 rather than waiting for a local midnight launch.
The event ends at 08:00 UTC on October 12, so players should plan around the exact UTC window instead of assuming they have the entire day on October 12.
Can free-weekend players access Pendola Pass?
Yes. Free-weekend players can queue directly into Pendola Pass from the map selection screen, with no prerequisites. That makes squad play particularly useful during the free weekend.
A newcomer can explore the new area alongside an experienced Raider rather than waiting to unlock everything themselves. For players trying ARC Raiders for the first time, that also provides a good reason to group up early. Bring a friend who already knows the game.
What Should You Do Before Frozen Trail Launches?
The best preparation is simple: use your remaining Cred, organize your materials, and decide how you want to approach Pendola Pass before October 8. Frozen Trail changes several progression systems. It’s better to go into the update with a clear plan than scramble after launch.
Spend Your Remaining Cred
Use any unused Cred before Frozen Trail launches since all of them expires with the update. Don’t expect it to carry over if you leave it in your account. If you’ve been putting off any purchases, keep October 8 in mind as the cutoff.
This is also a great time to review your progress and remove anything that no longer aligns with your plans.
Prepare Your Materials and Crafting Resources
Stocking up on useful materials gives you more flexibility once the new content arrives, especially if you’re planning to experiment with new weapons, gadgets, or crafting options.
Use the ARC Raiders Materials Priority List to decide which resources deserve your attention first. If crafting is slowing your prep, the Crafting Station Boost is another option.
Decide How You Want to Approach Pendola Pass
Your squad size should influence how you tackle the new map.
- Solo: Focus on safer routes, controlled engagements, and knowing when to leave.
- Duo: Coordinate loot, movement, and enemy pressure instead of splitting too far apart.
- Trio: Use the extra player to cover more angles and handle tougher encounters.
If you’re unsure which approach fits your playstyle, the Solo vs Duo vs Trio: Loot Strategy provides a useful starting point.
What Carries Over After the Update?
Returning players should review their existing progression before launch rather than assuming every system works exactly as it did before.
The key immediate prep is Cred, which expires when Frozen Trail launches. For long-term progression and accumulated progress, see the Expedition Carryover Guide: What You Keep, Lose, and Earn.
If you’ve been away from ARC Raiders for a while, don’t try to catch up on everything at once. Start with Pendola Pass, the Reward Pass, and the new ARC threats, then learn the other systems as you play.
Final Thoughts
The Arc Raiders Frozen Trail Update offers returning players and newcomers plenty to do, with Pendola Pass, the Frigate, new ARC enemies, and progression changes arriving alongside the limited free-play event. Before launch, prepare your Cred and resources, then use the free weekend to test the new content with your squad.
Check out the ARC Raiders Coins Boost and get ready for Frozen Trail on October 8.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is ARC Raiders permanently free after Frozen Trail?
No. The October free-play event is temporary and runs from October 8 through October 12, 2026.
Can new players access Pendola Pass during the free weekend?
Yes. New players can access Pendola Pass immediately by teaming up with someone who has already unlocked the area.
What are the new ARC enemies in Frozen Trail?
Frozen Trail adds Bully, Skullker, and Hydra, with each presenting a different combat threat.
What happens to Cred when Frozen Trail launches?
Unused Cred expires when the Frozen Trail update launches on October 8, so existing players should spend it before the update arrives.
