The first big update for ARC Raiders in 2026, called Headwinds, is coming out tomorrow. It will include a new way to find teammates, a new activity for players, cool new cosmetic items, and likely some new missions. The update’s trailer was accidentally released earlier today when it was posted on a Japanese Embark Studios social media account before it was officially scheduled.
Although the trailer was removed quickly, people had already recorded it and shared it online. The biggest news it revealed is a strange new feature coming to Headwinds: players will be matched up in ‘solo’ matches against teams (‘squads’).
Headwinds Will Be Here in 24 Hours
ARC Raiders is getting a big update called Headwinds tomorrow! The game, developed by Embark Studios, experienced some challenges over the holidays with slow player activity and cheating, but the developers are now focused on improving things. They’ve shared a plan for the next four months of content, and Headwinds is the first step.
While a new map and bigger enemies aren’t coming to ARC Raiders until April, there’s still a lot of fresh content planned before then.
Per the ‘leaked’ trailer, we know that Headwinds is set to include:
- Solos vs Squads matchmaking mechanics
- New map condition – Sandstorm
- Project: ARC Trophy Display
- New cosmetics: The Sandwalker set
The first new feature was formerly called the ‘Level 40+ Matchmaking Option,’ and players were curious about what it would involve. Surprisingly, it turned out to be a mode where individual players compete against teams, giving the best players a chance to showcase their skills.
We anticipate Sandstorm will function similarly to the Cold Snap event, pushing players into indoor spaces. The Sandwalker set of items will be designed to complement this environment.
The new ARC Trophy Display project will give players a long-term goal over the next few weeks. It’s a structure you’ll build in your Raider Den that lets you showcase trophies earned from defeating enemies in the ARC outside of Speranza.
Grant Taylor-Hill
I first fell in love with gaming way back in 1996 on the Amstrad CPC. Now, I’m a gamer who plays on pretty much everything, and I’m totally obsessed with the whole gaming world – especially esports! It’s just a huge passion of mine.
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2026-01-26 19:49