ARC Raiders Adds "Solo vs. Squad" Mode Today
Today, January 27th, a major update called Headwinds is launching for the extraction shooter ARC Raiders — the first update of 2026. It aims to breathe new life into the project, which faced some stagnation and issues after the holidays.
The main feature of the update will be an unusual matchmaking mode: "Solo vs. Squads," designed for experienced players who have reached level 40. It will allow solo players to fight against full squads, earning bonus experience for it.
A new map condition, "Sandstorm," has also been added. Similar to the winter weather from the previous update, it should drastically change tactics, forcing players to seek cover.
The game is introducing the "ARC Trophy Showcase" system, allowing players to exchange parts from defeated robots for rewards: cosmetics, blueprints, and in-game currency.
Additionally, flocks of birds appear in the Buried City location, leaving valuable items on rooftops. This encourages players to explore previously unvisited areas and encounter each other more often.
Headwinds opens the roadmap for the first four months of the year. In February, players can expect the Shrouded Sky update with extreme weather and a new type of robot, while April is slated for the release of Riven Tides with a brand-new map.