Arc Raiders, the popular extraction shooter from Embark Studios, received its January content update on Tuesday, January 28, introducing new gameplay features and map conditions. The Headwinds update brings several additions to the game, including a new matchmaking option and map enhancements, though it represents a smaller content drop compared to previous updates. According to Embark Studios, this update serves as a bridge between the recent Cold Snap event and February’s more substantial Shrouded Sky update.
The Arc Raiders Headwinds update is now live across Xbox, PlayStation, and PC platforms. The update introduces new player projects, cosmetic sets, and changes to the game’s event schedule, providing fresh content for the extraction shooter’s player base.
New Solo vs Squads Mode in Arc Raiders
The headline feature of the Headwinds update is a new Solo vs Squads matchmaking option available to players above level 40. This mode allows individual players to enter trio lobbies alone, taking on squads of three for increased experience point rewards. The high-risk, high-reward mode appears designed to challenge skilled players and create compelling content for streamers.
However, the extra experience incentive offers limited value for players who have reached the level 75 cap. The community has suggested additional reward systems for maximum-level players reaching experience milestones, including credits, crafting materials, or other in-game resources.
Bird City Map Condition
The Buried City map now features an increased bird presence with valuable loot hidden in nests and chimneys throughout the environment. Birds in Arc Raiders have traditionally served as environmental indicators, scattering when players approach and alerting nearby opponents to movement. This update expands their role by incorporating them into the loot system.
Additionally, the game has implemented a revised event schedule that replaces the previous fixed daily rotation. The new weekly schedule for map conditions such as Lush Blooms and Electromagnetic Storm provides players with more flexibility, addressing previous complaints about events occurring during inconvenient times.
Trophy Display Player Project
The update introduces a new Player Project called Trophy Display, which tasks players with hunting Arc machines and collecting components to progress through reward tiers. According to Embark Studios, the project allows Raiders to “harvest machines for prizes” and build out a trophy case. The feature may include visual elements allowing players to display achievements in their Raider Room alongside existing collectibles.
Player Projects in Arc Raiders require participants to explore various maps, collect specific items, and commit resources to unlock progressive rewards. The Trophy Display project adds another grinding objective for players seeking additional content between major updates.
Cosmetics and Future Content
The Headwinds update includes two new cosmetic sets, with the Sandwalker Set revealed prior to launch. Embark Studios withheld details about the second set until the update went live. Cosmetic additions have been a regular feature of Arc Raiders content updates, providing customization options for player characters.
Meanwhile, the developer has outlined a content roadmap extending through April. Upcoming updates include new game modes, additional maps, fresh enemy types, and free Raider Decks that function similarly to battle passes. The February Shrouded Sky update promises more substantial additions, including a new Arc threat and significant map changes.
In contrast to major seasonal events, the January update serves primarily as maintenance content. Community feedback has highlighted desired improvements beyond these additions, including crafting system overhauls, user interface enhancements, and changes to the game’s aggression-based matchmaking system.
The development team has not announced specific dates for the February Shrouded Sky update, though the roadmap indicates it will arrive before the end of next month. Players can expect more details as Embark Studios continues rolling out its planned content schedule for Arc Raiders through spring 2025.
