The Arc Raiders Cold Snap update finally brings winter to Speranza, changing not only how the world looks but how every raid is played. With snowfall, frostbite mechanics, limited-time events, and new rewards, Cold Snap turns each mission into a true survival challenge.
Arc Raiders Cold Snap Update: Release Time, Frostbite Mechanics and Full Event Breakdown
This guide covers everything you need to know, including release times, gameplay changes, events, and progression rewards.
Arc Raiders Cold Snap Update Release Date & Time
The Cold Snap update goes live on Tuesday, December 16, and will remain active until January 13, 2026.
Cold Snap Release Time by Region
1:30 AM – Pacific Time (PST)
4:30 AM – Eastern Time (EST)
9:30 AM – United Kingdom (GMT)
10:30 AM – Central Europe (CET)
6:30 PM – Japan (JST)
8:30 PM – Australia (AEDT)
Players in North and South America should be prepared for a very early launch window.
Snowfall Map Condition Explained
Cold Snap introduces the Snowfall map condition across multiple Topside locations, including Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, Spaceport, and The Blue Gate.
This winter environment isn’t just visual. Snowstorms reduce visibility, lakes freeze over, and outdoor movement becomes significantly more dangerous.
Frostbite Survival Mechanic
Frostbite is a new environmental threat that slowly drains health when players remain outdoors for too long. It forces raiders to constantly balance risk and movement.
To survive:
Spend time indoors to recover
Avoid extended exposure in open areas
Plan extraction routes carefully
How Shelter Mechanics Change Gameplay
Shelter is now a core gameplay mechanic. Players must move between indoor and outdoor spaces to avoid frostbite buildup.
This results in:
More close-quarters combat
Higher PvP intensity near buildings
Increased importance of team coordination
Loadout choices matter more than ever, especially healing and support items.
Limited-Time Events in the Cold Snap Update
Cold Snap features multiple seasonal events designed to reward consistent play.
Flickering Flames Event
The Flickering Flames event offers 25 progression levels with rewards unlocked using Merits earned after each Topside raid.
Rewards include:
Exclusive cosmetics
Raider Tokens
Progression items
Candleberry Banquet Project
The Candleberry Banquet is a seasonal project that runs alongside the expedition.
Players progress by:
Looting unique seasonal items
Collecting candleberries during raids
Completing stages unlocks cosmetics, Raider Tokens, and additional Merits.
Goalie Raider Deck – New Permanent Addition
A brand-new Raider Deck called Goalie arrives on December 26.
This deck includes:
Hockey-inspired raider outfit
Multiple colour variations
Hockey stick raider tool
New feats and deck items
The Goalie Raider Deck is permanent, so players can unlock it at any time.
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Why the Cold Snap Update Feels More Intense
The Cold Snap update dramatically increases tension during raids.
Snowfall limits vision
Frostbite pressures constant movement
Shelter funnels players into conflict zones
Every raid feels riskier, more tactical, and more rewarding.
Tips to Survive the Cold Snap Event
Carry extra healing items
Use indoor routes whenever possible
Avoid staying outdoors too long
Expect more PvP near shelters
Plan extractions earlier than usual
Final Thoughts on Arc Raiders Cold Snap Update
The Arc Raiders Cold Snap update is one of the game’s most impactful seasonal updates so far. By combining harsh environmental mechanics with meaningful progression rewards, it delivers a fresh and challenging experience for both solo players and squads.
If you enjoy high-risk survival gameplay, Cold Snap is absolutely worth diving into.
