2 min read
ARC Raiders is maintaining strong momentum in 2026. Following a massive launch on October 30, 2025, Embark Studios is determined to keep players engaged. In a recent interview, Lead Designer Virgil Watkins teased major changes coming to the game. The studio aims to disrupt current strategies and keep the player base guessing.
The ‘Escalation’ Roadmap
Embark has laid out a four-month content plan known as “Escalation”. The “Headwinds” update already kicked off on January 23. It introduced a new matchmaking option and a fresh map condition.
Now, attention turns to February. The “Shrouded Sky” update arrives this month, and it looks substantial. Players can expect a new ARC enemy, a Raider Deck, and a map update.
Subsequently, March brings “Flashpoint“. This update provides a refresh for the fan-favourite rooster, Scrappy. It also adds another new map condition and ARC enemy.
Finally, April delivers “Riven Tides“. This drop offers a brand-new map and condition. Furthermore, it introduces a large new ARC threat. This is likely the rumoured Emperor.
Shredders on the Move in ARC Raiders
Watkins admits that players have mastered current enemy patterns. They craft specific gear to easily counter endgame bosses like Queens and Matriarchs. To fix this, Embark is mixing things up.
The Shredder enemy is currently exclusive to the “Stella Montis” map. However, Watkins teased that this confinement won’t last. Shredders will eventually escape and roam other maps.
Imagine facing a Shredder in the narrow streets of “Buried City”. Picture them stalking the subway tunnels of “Blue Gate”. This change adds a major challenge for those looking to extract.
Variant Enemies & The Emperor
Additionally, Embark Studios is adjusting common enemies. For example, the Wasp will see behavioural changes. These are not just cosmetic recolours. The studio ensures these variant types serve a specific purpose in the game’s ecosystem.
April’s update hints at an even bigger danger. Players have previously seen six-legged giant spidery robots in the map backgrounds. Known to the community as Emperors, these machines may soon hunt players directly.
Combat strategies must evolve. Embark guarantees the current gameplay loop won’t last forever. Players need to stay on their toes for each new update.
