**Arc Raiders Cold Snap Update: A Winter Wonderland for Players**

Today marks the release of the highly anticipated Cold Snap update for *Arc Raiders*, transforming the landscape of this sci-fi extraction shooter into a stunning winter scene. With glistening snowfall blanketing the four default maps, players will experience the beauty of winter while staying alert in this new and challenging environment.

The update includes significant environmental changes that impact gameplay. As detailed in a press release, “snowstorms sweep across Speranza as winter conditions take hold of multiple raid locations.” The introduction of snowfall reduces visibility, lakes freeze over, and the once manageable open surfaces become perilous, requiring players to adapt their strategies for survival. This transformation means that every raid has escalated stakes, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and execution.

A key gameplay mechanic introduced in this update is frostbite. While players won’t face the horrifying possibility of losing limbs to gangrene, they will experience a slow health drain when they are exposed to the cold outdoors for too long. This mechanic compels raiders to reconsider their loadouts and prioritize healing for themselves and their teammates, making shelter a vital aspect of strategic planning during raids.

The Cold Snap update also rolls out the Goalie Raider Deck, the second Raider Deck, which players can access for free starting December 26th. This Deck introduces new items, customizable player feats, and skins, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Notably, it features a hockey-themed outfit complete with a matching hockey stick raider tool, catering to players’ affinity for unique aesthetics.

Additionally, two time-limited seasonal events will take place during the Cold Snap update. The Flickering Flames Event, commencing on December 16th, allows players to progress through 25 levels to earn new gear, customization elements, and Raider tokens by gathering Merits earned through experience points in matches. Following this event, players can look forward to the Candleberry Banquet Project starting December 26th. This project will involve collecting Candleberries through five stages, with new banqueting scenes and additional rewards for completing each stage.

A notable feature arriving this December is the ability for players to prestige their characters through a new system termed as “expeditions.” This process permits players to reset much of their progress, including player level and inventory, in exchange for various perks like increased XP gain and bonus skill points. Expeditions are set to last eight weeks, with the first one commencing on December 21st, allowing players to renew their gaming experience.

In conclusion, the Cold Snap update introduces an array of new features and challenges to *Arc Raiders*, encouraging both seasoned players and newcomers to explore the game’s wintery changes. With beautiful visuals, new mechanics, and limited-time events, this update promises to keep players engaged and ready for action in the frozen landscapes of Speranza.