Shrouded Sky is the next large free content update for Arc Raiders. It brings new weather systems, ARC enemies, map changes, progression expansions, and how it ties into the ongoing 2026 content roadmap. Shrouded Sky marks one of the most significant additions to the game since launch, reshaping surface raids and Expedition pacing.
1. What Is the Shrouded Sky Update?
Arc Raiders Shrouded Sky update
Shrouded Sky is a major content update for Arc Raiders set to launch on February 24, 2026. It follows the earlier Headwinds update and is part of the “Escalation” roadmap of regular, free content drops planned through early 2026.
This update delivers a suite of new systems, gameplay challenges, and progression features that significantly alter how raids play out. Key Additions Include:
- A brand‑new dynamic weather map condition
- A new ARC enemy threat
- Updated maps and map layout tweaks
- A new Player Project
- A new Raider Deck (reward track/progression)
- An Expedition Window is opening for players
2. Shrouded Sky Release Date & Timing
Launch Date: February 24, 2026
Times will vary by region (e.g., early UTC morning rollout) based on past patch windows. Players can expect it at the following times:
- East Coast (EST): 4:30 AM
- West Coast (PST): 1:30 AM
- UK (GMT): 9:30 AM
- West Europe (CEST): 10:30 AM
This places Shrouded Sky in a late‑February release slot, just after earlier content drops like Headwinds. Expect servers to come down for maintenance and patch installations just before the launch.
3. All New Changes in Shrouded Sky
There are tons of new changes coming with the Shrouded Sky update, including a new ARC type, a map condition, a new project, and more. Here’s everything coming in the new update:
3.1 The Hurricane Map Condition
Hurricane Map condition teaser
One of the highlight features of Shrouded Sky is the introduction of the Hurricane map condition — a dynamic weather effect that fundamentally reshapes surface gameplay. This isn’t just decorative; it changes movement, combat, resource management, and tactical planning. These are key Hurricane condition mechanics:
- Strong winds influence movement — tailwinds increase speed and agility while headwinds drain stamina and slow movement.
- Reduced visibility from rain, debris, and swirling sand increases stealth and risk.
- Debris and wind damage affect shields over time, requiring new strategies for shield use.
- Wind affects ballistics and equipment physics, making grenades, thrown items, and bullets behave differently depending on direction and strength.
This map condition demands that squads adapt on the fly — balancing risk versus rewards as environmental forces play just as big a role as enemy encounters.
3.2 New ARC Threat: Firefly and Comet
New Arc enemy
Shrouded Sky introduces two new ARC enemy type, distinguished from existing robots and threats. These ARC variants are designed to complement the hurricane environment, engaging in faster ground movements and presenting distinct combat behaviors compared to regular ARC patrols.
- Firefly — A flying flamethrower drone that hovers over Raiders and unleashes bursts of fire, forcing constant movement or cover usage during engagements. Its aerial mobility and area damage pressure make it very different from traditional bots like Wasps.
- Comet — A ground-based ARC that locks onto players and detonates with a powerful explosion preceded by seismic shockwaves. It’s similar in size to a Fireball but more aggressive and purposeful in target tracking.
Both of these new ARC enemies are available on all map conditions and are not limited to Hurricane map condition.
3.3 New High-Value Loot Area: Controlled Access Zone
The Shrouded Sky update introduces a brand-new high-security area on Dam Battlegrounds called the Controlled Access Zone. This location is designed to offer some of the best loot on the map, with concentrated high-tier weapon cases, ARC components, crafting materials, and rare gear — but it isn’t simply an open room to loot.
Raiders will recognize the Controlled Access Zone by its distinctive Rocketeer chandelier hanging inside, acting as a landmark to signal the content-rich area.
3.4 Player Project & Raider Deck
Player Projects
Shrouded Sky also adds a new Player Project and updated Raider Deck progression system — similar to previous long‑term objectives in Arc Raiders.
- Player Project: Weather Monitoring System: This seasonal project has multiple stages where you gather specific components during the hurricane conditions, earning rewards and Raider Tokens as you progress.
- Raider Deck: “Surgeon”: The Surgeon Raider Deck is available for free with Shrouded Sky and introduces a combat-medic archetype. Progressing through it unlocks themed cosmetics — including full beard options — as part of character personalization.
These systems deepen player engagement beyond raw loot chasing, giving structured paths to earn rewards over the lifetime of Shrouded Sky.
3.5 Weapon & Balance Changes (Patch 1.17.0)
Shrouded Sky update also adds some significant weapon changes, here is everything changed:
- Nerfs: Venator (reduced base damage and headshot multiplier), Kettle (lower base damage), Stitcher (lower damage & accuracy).
- Buffs: Aphelion (improved reload and handling), Jupiter (better ADS magnification and swap speeds).
- Gameplay Adjustments: Semi-auto weapon input buffer adjusted to reward paced firing, Feats can be rerolled for free each day, PvP Feats removed.
These balance shifts reshape both PvE and PvP combat in line with the new environmental threats and enemy additions.
3.6 Expedition Window Returns
Expedition Window
Shrouded Sky also reopens the Expedition Window, allowing players to participate in the second major Expedition cycle. This gives the Raiders another chance to contribute resources, complete stages, and reset their character for powerful permanent bonuses and progression benefits.
Ensure your stash and project progress are ready before the window opens, as Expedition resets are for a week and will return after 60 days.
3.7 New First Wave Raider Caches
First Wave Raider Caches are buried relic containers exposed by the hurricane’s force that did not normally appear on the surface before. These caches contain above‑normal loot and high‑value gear, making them prime targets during hurricane‑condition raids.
These caches are related to the existing Raider Caches loot type in ARC Raiders — containers that normally spawn ammo, weapons, shields, healing items, blueprints, and attachments, and sometimes appear more frequently in certain map conditions (“Uncovered Caches”).
3.8 New Customization — Beards & Cosmetic Expansion
Raider Customization
One of the most anticipated additions in the Shrouded Sky update is the long‑requested beard and facial hair customization for Raiders. Up until now, Arc Raiders characters have lacked facial hair options despite the gritty post‑apocalyptic setting, but the upcoming update finally changes this. Here’s what’s new with Raider customization:
- Beard Options Added — The Shrouded Sky trailer and official previews show Raiders sporting beards for the first time, indicating that facial hair will be a new customization category.
- Expanded Cosmetic Variety — In addition to beards, the update teases new skins and cosmetic items (such as a rugged hooded outfit and themed accessories).
- Raider Deck Integration — Some of these cosmetics, including beards or themed appearances, are expected to be tied to the new Raider Deck progression system, meaning players can unlock them through play rather than only purchasing them.
This customization expansion is a direct response to community demand, as players have frequently expressed the desire for facial hair and more character personalization since the game’s launch.
