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
New Arc enemy
Shrouded Sky introduces at least one new ARC enemy type, distinguished from existing robots and threats. Although full tactical details are not yet fully published, this ARC variant is designed to complement the hurricane environment, engaging in faster ground movements and presenting distinct combat behaviors compared to regular ARC patrols.
Expect this new threat to show up primarily in areas affected by hurricane conditions and to force changes in how the Raiders approach fights, particularly under harsh weather.
3.3 Map Changes & Updates
While a completely new map isn’t confirmed until the April update (Riven Tides), Shrouded Sky is expected to introduce map layout tweaks and special environmental zones to support the hurricane mechanic. This means previously static areas might spawn new obstacles, expose hidden terrain features, or create tactical chokepoints driven by wind and storm conditions.
The hurricane condition itself will often trigger when entering certain maps, reshaping how you explore established POIs.
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: A repeatable or long‑term goal track that unlocks rewards, cosmetics, and progression milestones as you complete objectives during the update cycle.
- Raider Deck: A progression track likely tied to earning Cred and completing match objectives, offering cosmetic unlocks and gear rewards.
These systems deepen player engagement beyond raw loot chasing, giving structured paths to earn rewards over the lifetime of Shrouded Sky.
3.5 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.
3.6 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”).
3.7 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.
