Key information
Embark Studios' extraction shooter ARC Raiders has experienced a significant resurgence on Steam. Following the release of Frozen Trail, the game's largest update since its October 2025 launch, concurrent player numbers climbed to 131,388. This figure represents the title's highest activity level since April, effectively tripling the 43,800 users recorded on October 7.
The Frozen Trail update, which arrived on October 8, introduces the Pendola Pass map, a snowy mountainous region featuring new mechanical threats. Players now have access to three additional ARC enemy types, new weaponry, and a grappling hook designed to enhance movement. Furthermore, the developers implemented adjustments to the skill tree and introduced new progression systems.
This spike in engagement follows a strategic shift by Embark Studios in May, when the team moved away from monthly content updates to focus on larger, less frequent releases. While this transition initially led to a decline in activity, the recent performance of Frozen Trail suggests the new development approach may be yielding positive results for the studio.
The player increase also coincides with a promotional period allowing users to play the full version of ARC Raiders for free on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series until October 12. Players can retain their progress if they choose to purchase the game after the trial concludes.
