Embark Studios has released ARC Raiders Update 1.15.0, bringing a new co-op focused event, the return of a fan-favorite map condition, and a long list of fixes. The update is now live on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, and it sets a clear tone for February by pushing players toward teamwork instead of pure PvP.
Shared Watch Event in ARC Raiders
The Shared Watch event runs from February 10 to February 24 and rewards players only for fighting machines. Players earn merits by destroying, assisting, and damaging ARC enemies. PvP encounters still exist, but they no longer grant merits during the event.
This design nudges Raiders to squad up, watch each other’s backs, and focus on survival against machines rather than farming other players. The event also features a dedicated reward track with cosmetics and gameplay items tied directly to ARC combat performance.
Cold Snap Map Condition Returns to Rotation
Cold Snap has officially returned to outdoor maps after strong community demand. The condition adds frostbite damage when players stay exposed for too long, forcing smarter movement and shelter usage.
Players who manage the cold well gain access to higher-value loot, keeping the risk-versus-reward balance intact. Snowballs and Candleberries remain available, although Candleberries no longer link to any event objectives.
New Cosmetics Join the Store and Event Track
Update 1.15.0 introduces two new cosmetic sets:
- Vulpine Set – A fox-themed outfit available in the store
- Slugger Set – A baseball-inspired outfit earned through the Shared Watch event
Both sets lean into ARC Raiders’ rugged, scavenger-style aesthetic and expand cosmetic variety without affecting gameplay balance.
Trailblazer Grenade Receives Major Balance Changes
Embark has reworked the Trailblazer Grenade to limit its dominance:
- Explosions no longer deal damage through walls
- Damage increased against small enemies
- Damage reduced against large enemies like the Leaper and Bastion
This change reins in grenade-heavy playstyles and encourages more tactical engagements against stronger ARC threats.
Quality-of-Life Improvements and Fixes
The update also improves overall stability and reliability:
- Players can now reconnect more consistently after disconnects
- End-of-round screens display correct merits, XP, and event points
- Crafting interruptions and weapon cycling issues have been fixed
- Trials now correctly grant partial rewards when timeouts occur
These fixes address several long-standing frustrations and make raids feel smoother from start to finish.
Known Issues Still Remain
Some problems persist, including visual glitches with specific cosmetic previews, occasional missing skill points, and interaction issues with certain containers. Embark has acknowledged these issues and continues to track player reports.
Update 1.15.0 does not introduce a full PvE-only mode, but it clearly tests a friendlier direction. By removing PvP merit rewards for most of February, Embark encourages cooperation without removing player choice.
With more updates planned later in 2026, including new map conditions and ARC threats, this patch feels like a deliberate step toward refining ARC Raiders’ long-term identity rather than a one-off event.
If you plan to return topside this month, Shared Watch offers the best reason yet to bring allies—and plenty of ammo. Play Now!
