Arc Raiders Headwinds Update: Release Time and Key Features
- Sagar Mankar
- 13 hours ago
- 2 min read
The third major update for ARC Raiders, titled Headwinds, is set to launch today on January 27, 2026, bringing a fresh wave of content and features to the popular extraction shooter.
Embark Studios has been consistent with updates since the game’s release, and this new patch continues the trend of keeping players engaged with new challenges, rewards, and gameplay options.
One of the standout features is the Solo vs. Squads matchmaking option. Available to players who have reached level 40, this mode allows daring Raiders to take on entire squads alone. It’s a high-risk, high-reward scenario, offering bonus XP for those who choose to brave the odds.
Another highlight is the ARC Trophy Display project, which lets players collect parts from defeated ARC enemies and showcase them for progression rewards. These rewards include cosmetics, achievements, blueprints, and Raider Tokens.
The Buried City map is also getting a twist with the arrival of bird drops. Flocks of birds will now leave valuable loot in chimneys and rooftops, encouraging exploration of areas that players might otherwise overlook.
Cosmetics are also part of the mix, with fresh additions like the Sandwalker Set, ideal for slipping past your rivals with stealth and skill.
For those wondering when they can jump in, here are the release times for Headwinds across regions:
Los Angeles (PT): 1:30 AM
New York (ET): 4:30 AM
London (GMT): 9:30 AM
Cental Europe (CET): 10:30 AM
Moscow, Russia (MSK): 12:30 PM
Dubai (GST): 1:30 PM
New Delhi, India (IST): 3:00 PM
Beijing, China (CST): 5:30 PM
Tokyo, Japan (JST): 6:30 PM
Sydney, Australia (AEDT): 8:30 PM
Headwinds is just the beginning of a packed roadmap for 2026. Embark Studios has already confirmed three more updates in the coming months:
Shrouded Sky (February): New extreme weather conditions, a new ARC threat, a fresh player project, a new Ryder Deck, and an expedition window
Flashpoint (March): Another map condition, another player project, a new ARC enemy, and updates to Scrappy the Rooster.
Riven Tides (April): A brand-new map, a large ARC to battle, and another Expedition window.
ARC Raiders fans can expect more intense encounters, creative progression systems, and a steady stream of content throughout 2026.