Embark Studios is adding a paid premium battle pass to Arc Raiders with the Frozen Trail update on October 8, 2026. This change matters because it introduces a new recurring cost for players who want specific cosmetic items. The studio confirmed the pass will not include rewards that affect gameplay balance. Buyers looking for exclusive outfits should note the new pricing structure before the update launches.
Embark Studios adds cosmetic monetization to the free-to-play shooter
The Frozen Trail update arrives alongside the Premium Pass and a free Legacy Pass. The Legacy Pass combines all existing Raider Decks into a single progression track. This consolidation simplifies the reward structure for returning players. The game remains free-to-play, but the new monetization layer targets dedicated raider collectors.
The Premium Pass costs 1150 Raider Tokens in the in-game store. Embark Studios stated that the pass offers premium outfit variants and in-game currency. A separate Collector Set DLC is also available for 2400 Raider Tokens plus exclusive cosmetics. These token purchases are strictly for visual customization and do not impact game mechanics.
The Premium Pass and Collector Set launch globally on October 8, 2026. This date aligns exactly with the release of the Frozen Trail update. Players can unlock the Premium Pass directly through the in-game store interface. The free Legacy Pass will be available to all players at the same time without any purchase requirement.
When we covered the last Arc Raiders update, several of the same balance and stability themes came up. This new pass system shifts focus toward cosmetic monetization rather than gameplay changes. The studio maintains a clear separation between paid content and competitive fairness. Players can now choose whether to invest tokens for visual variety.
Source: IXBT
