Arc Raiders Cold Snap Survival Mechanics Fully Detailed – Everything You Need to Know
The Arc Raiders Cold Snap update is the most ambitious evolution of Embark Studios’ extraction shooter to date. Introducing harsh winter conditions, brand-new survival mechanics, seasonal events, and the game’s first optional Expedition reset, Cold Snap fundamentally changes how every Arc Raider approaches combat, exploration, and progression.
What Is the Arc Raiders Cold Snap Update?
Cold Snap is Arc Raiders’ second major post-launch update and the final chapter of the game’s 2025 roadmap. Launching on December 16, it introduces a seasonal winter variant across four major maps: Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, Spaceport, and The Blue Gate.
More than a visual overhaul, Cold Snap adds a new Snowfall map condition that directly impacts gameplay. Visibility is reduced, lakes freeze over, footprints become visible in snow, and most importantly, prolonged exposure to the elements causes frostbite, slowly draining your health.
These mechanics force players to rethink their routes, loadouts, healing economy, and extraction planning. Survival is no longer just about gunplay—it’s about preparation, awareness, and smart decision-making.
Snowfall Map Condition Explained
The new Snowfall condition coats entire maps in snow and ice, drastically changing how Arc Raiders plays:
- Reduced visibility makes long-range fights riskier.
- Frozen lakes open new routes—but expose you while crossing.
- Footprint tracking allows skilled players to hunt other Raiders.
- Environmental pressure increases PvP encounters indoors.
Snowfall appears dynamically on supported maps, meaning you won’t always know what conditions you’ll face. Veteran Arc Raiders who adapt quickly will gain a massive advantage.
Frostbite & Shelter Mechanics – How Cold Snap Changes Survival
The most impactful new mechanic is frostbite. When exposed to extreme cold for too long, your Raider begins to suffer gradual health loss. This turns the open surface into a high-risk zone during Snowfall.
How to Counter Frostbite
- Seek indoor shelter to stop health drain.
- Carry additional healing items.
- Plan routes with safe buildings along the way.
- Coordinate with teammates to avoid being isolated.
This mechanic intentionally funnels players into buildings, increasing tension and making close-quarters combat more frequent. In Cold Snap, hesitation outdoors can be fatal.
Limited-Time Cold Snap Events
Flickering Flames Event
Flickering Flames is a 25-tier endurance event designed to reward consistent play during Cold Snap. Players earn Merits automatically by gaining XP in matches.
- 25 reward tiers
- Cosmetics, Raider Tokens, and gear
- Unlocked after completing 5 matches
For players looking to maximize progress efficiently, focusing on high-XP activities—such as eliminating elite ARC enemies—significantly accelerates reward unlocks.
Candleberry Banquet Project
The Candleberry Banquet is a cooperative seasonal project where Raiders collect unique items and Candleberries during Expeditions.
- 5 stages with evolving visual scenes
- Cosmetics, Merits, and Raider Tokens
- Merits contribute to Flickering Flames progress
This project encourages exploration during Snowfall conditions, rewarding players who brave the cold and venture topside.
Goalie Raider Deck – Free Permanent Content
Starting December 26, the Goalie Raider Deck becomes available to all players for free. Unlike traditional battle passes, Raider Decks are permanent.
The Goalie Deck includes:
- Hockey-inspired Raider outfit (multiple color variants)
- Hockey stick Raider tool
- Feats, cosmetics, and Raider Tokens
You can unlock rewards at your own pace using Creds earned through daily Feats—no expiration pressure.
Expedition Project Reset – Optional Seasonal Progression
Cold Snap introduces Arc Raiders’ first optional Expedition reset. Unlike forced wipes, the Expedition Project lets players choose when to reset their Raider.
What Happens When You Depart?
- All blueprints, levels, credits, and upgrades reset
- You start a new Raider and story
- Exclusive buffs and rewards carry over
Expedition Rewards
Permanent Bonuses:
- Up to 5 permanent skill points (1 per 1M credits)
- +12 stash slots
- Exclusive Expedition icon & cosmetics
Temporary Bonuses:
- +6% Scrappy materials
- +5% XP gain
- 10% cheaper repairs
This system rewards dedication without punishing casual players—one of Cold Snap’s most praised design decisions.
Cold Snap 1.7.0 Patch Highlights
- Skill Tree Reset added
- ADS toggle option
- Raider Tool customization
- Weapon buffs (Bettina, Rattler)
- Harvester blueprint adjustments
- Achievements enabled on Epic Games Store
Need Help Mastering Cold Snap? ElovateBoost Has You Covered
Cold Snap dramatically increases difficulty—especially when farming Arc Raider blueprints, completing Trials, or surviving Snowfall conditions. That’s where ElovateBoost comes in.
- Arc Raiders Boosting Services – full progression, materials, and seasonal support
- Arc Raiders Blueprints Boost – targeted blueprint farming, including event exclusives
- Arc Raiders Trials Boost – high-score Trials runs and seasonal rewards
All services are completed with manual gameplay, verified pro players, and strict account safety standards.
Final Thoughts – Why Cold Snap Is a Turning Point for Arc Raiders
Arc Raiders Cold Snap isn’t just a seasonal event—it’s a systemic evolution. By introducing environmental survival mechanics, optional progression resets, and meaningful seasonal rewards, Embark Studios has elevated Arc Raiders into one of the most compelling extraction shooters on the market.
Whether you’re braving Snowfall solo or optimizing your progression with ElovateBoost, Cold Snap proves that Arc Raiders continues to innovate—and thrive.
