The ARC Raiders “Cold Snap” Update (Patch 1.7.0) went live earlier this week on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. It is a major content patch that introduces winter weather mechanics and significant balance changes.
Note that a smaller Hotfix also dropped yesterday (Dec 18) to tweak some drop rates.
Here are the essential patch notes you need to know:
1. New Mechanic: “Snowfall” Map Condition
This is the headline feature. It is not just a visual change; it adds survival pressure.
Frostbite: If you stay out in the storm too long, you take damage. You must find shelter or heat sources to survive.
Tracking: Players now leave footprints in the snow, making it much easier to track (or be tracked by) enemy squads.
Visibility: Blizzards drastically reduce vision range, making thermal optics highly valuable.
2. The “Security Breach” Nerf (Critical)
What changed: Security Lockers now spawn dynamically (randomly) across the map.
Why it matters: You can no longer rush to specific static locations to guarantee high-tier loot using the “Security Breach” skill. This kills the popular “naked locker run” farming strategy.
3. Active Event: Flickering Flames
Objective: Collect Candleberries found in the world.
Rewards: These can be crafted into “warming” consumables (teas/stews to fight Frostbite) or traded for event-exclusive cosmetics and the new “Winter Camo” weapon skins.
End Date: This event runs until January 13, 2026.
4. Weapon Balance Changes
Buff: Bettina (AR) – Durability burn reduced (lasts longer), Magazine increased (20 → 22), Reload speed buffed.
Buff: Rattler – Magazine size increased (10 → 12).
General: Knockback from all weapons has been reduced, meaning enemies (and you) won’t get pushed around as much during gunfights.
5. Quality of Life & System Changes
Skill Tree Reset: You can finally reset your skills! It costs Coins (not real money, but in-game currency).
ADS Toggle: Added an option to toggle Aim Down Sights instead of holding it.
Cred Cap: There is now a “Soft Cap” of 800 Creds in your wallet to prevent infinite hoarding.
Upcoming: New “Goalie” Deck
While the patch is out now, the new free Hockey-themed “Goalie” Raider Deck does not unlock until December 26.
Next Step:
There was a small Hotfix (v1.7.2) released yesterday (Dec 18) that lowered Blueprint drop rates slightly because they were too high in the Cold Snap update.
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