© Embark Studios
ARC Raidersthe cooperative sci-fi shooter from Embark Studios, begins 2026 with an ambitious update called Headwinds. Available from January 27 on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series This update inaugurates a four-step seasonal roadmapconfirming the “live service” approach of the Swedish studio.
Solo mode against squads: for the most seasoned players
This is undoubtedly the flagship element of this update: the mode “Solo vs Squads” makes its appearance. Intended for players of level 40 and abovethis mode allows a solo player to face teams of three opponents, in a more strategic, riskier, and more rewarding format. According to the studio, this mode allows you to gain more experience and test their skills in unbalanced scenarios. “Headwinds aims to provide new ways to approach ARC Raiders and additional challenges for experienced players.”
— Virgil Watkins, Design Director at Embark Studios
“Bird City”: a new kind of weather
Another novelty as strange as it is fun: the introduction of the condition of “Bird City” card. On the “Buried City” map, a flock of birds invades the roofs, dropping higher quality loot. An original mechanism that encourages adapt your exploration strategy.
New projects, cosmetics, and the start of a live season
Headwinds also adds:
- A long term project for regular players
- L’exhibition of ARC trophies
- Of new quests
- The cosmetic set “Sandwalker”
Next steps in the roadmap:
Shrouded Sky (FEBRUARY), Flashpoint (March), Riven Tides (april).