Arc Raiders players have been getting banned for using accessibility controllers, and now Embark Studios has finally responded, confirming the issue and promising a fix.

The situation has raised serious concerns around how anti-cheat systems handle assistive hardware, especially as some affected players rely on these devices just to be able to play at all.

Embark Confirms Accessibility Controller Ban Issue

In a post shared on social media, Embark acknowledged that some players using accessibility peripherals were incorrectly banned.

It’s come to our attention that certain players using accessibility peripherals are getting banned in the game.
We are working hard on resolving this issue as soon as possible. Our support team is reviewing all appeals, please continue to reach out to us if this has happened to…

— ARC Raiders (@ARCRaidersGame) March 17, 2026

The studio said it is “working hard on resolving this issue as soon as possible,” and confirmed that its support team is currently reviewing appeals from affected users.

Players who believe they were wrongly banned are being encouraged to reach out, with Embark indicating that cases are being handled individually for now.

Player Reports Show How Serious The Problem Is

The issue gained traction after multiple reports surfaced online, including one widely shared case from a quadriplegic player using a sip-and-puff “QuadStick” controller.

The player explained that the device allows them to control a computer using breath input, yet they were still flagged, suspended, and eventually banned.

After the post gained attention, their account was restored, suggesting the bans are not intentional but caused by the system incorrectly identifying these devices as cheats.

Anti-Cheat Likely Misidentifying Accessibility Devices

Early signs point to Arc Raiders’ anti-cheat system treating certain accessibility controllers as suspicious hardware.

These devices don’t provide a gameplay advantage, but because they behave differently from standard inputs, they can appear similar to modified or automated control systems.

This creates a tricky situation where tools designed to make games more inclusive are being caught in the same net as actual cheats.

How To Appeal Or Report A Wrongful Ban

If you’ve been affected by the Arc Raiders accessibility ban issue, Embark is currently handling appeals through its support system.

You can submit a request through the official Technical Support Center, explaining your setup and the device you’re using. Including details about your controller and how it functions can help speed up the review process.

Embark has specifically asked players to continue reaching out if they were impacted, which suggests they are actively monitoring reports and reversing cases where appropriate.

Right now, this is the main way to get unbanned, as there’s no global rollback or automatic fix in place yet.

Frustration Builds Alongside Other Issues

Interestingly, many replies to Embark’s statement weren’t focused on the bans at all, but on ongoing server problems.

Players have been reporting crashes during runs, lost loot, and disrupted progression, with some linking the issues to a recent update.

That same update also introduced balance changes, including nerfs to the Il Toro shotgun, as well as new cosmetics like hairstyles and the Rawhide Outfit. The reception has been mixed, adding to the overall frustration in the community.

Cheating Concerns Still Linger In The Background

This situation also ties into Arc Raiders’ broader struggles with cheating.

Earlier this year, a duplication glitch caused major disruption in matches, forcing Embark to step in with server-side fixes. While the studio has taken a strong stance on banning cheaters, players have continued to raise concerns about how effective those systems really are.

The accessibility ban issue highlights the other side of that equation, where anti-cheat can go too far and catch legitimate players instead.

Fix Is Coming, But Players Must Appeal For Now

Embark hasn’t provided a timeline for when the issue will be fully resolved, but has made it clear that a fix is in the works.

Until then, affected players will need to rely on the appeal process to get their accounts restored.

With Arc Raiders continuing to compete in the extraction shooter space, how Embark handles this situation could have a real impact on player trust, especially for those relying on accessibility features to play.

The post Arc Raiders Accessibility Controller Bans Addressed As Embark Responds appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Embark Studios has rolled out Arc Raiders update 1.20.0 across all platforms, and while the patch notes might look relatively short at first glance, the impact is anything but. This update directly targets two of the game’s most talked-about issues, the dominance of the Il Toro shotgun and the surprisingly lucrative Energy Clips economy.

Players jumping in will need to restart their game to download the update, which is now live on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Il Toro Nerf Finally Hits After Player Feedback

The biggest change in Arc Raiders patch 1.20.0 is the long-awaited nerf to the Il Toro shotgun, a weapon that had become a staple in PvP due to its high damage and surprising versatility despite being only an uncommon tier item.

According to Embark’s official dev notes, the goal here is to make the weapon feel “more like a weapon of its rarity,” especially after players repeatedly raised concerns about its effectiveness at both close and mid-range when paired with certain attachments.

The changes are significant and touch nearly every part of the weapon’s performance:

• Pellet damage reduced from 7.5 to 7
• Fire rate reduced from 43 to 38
• Base dispersion increased from 4.5 to 6
• Reload time increased from 4.3 seconds to 5.7 seconds
• Looping reload timing slowed down
• Damage falloff increased from 40% to 50%

In practical terms, this means the Il Toro will now demand more careful positioning, timing, and use of cover, rather than allowing players to aggressively dominate fights with minimal drawbacks.

This adjustment comes directly from community feedback, with Embark noting it will continue monitoring how the weapon performs post-update and may tweak it further if needed.

Energy Clips Economy Nerfed Hard

Alongside the weapon balance changes, Arc Raiders patch 1.20.0 also makes a dramatic adjustment to the in-game economy by targeting Energy Clips.

Previously, Energy Clips could be sold for 1000 coins, making them one of the most profitable crafting items in the game. That has now been reduced to just 200 coins, a massive drop that will immediately affect players who relied on farming them for quick income.

Embark explained that Energy Clips had “unintentionally become a very profitable craft,” and the change is intended to bring their value more in line with other items.

For players who have been stockpiling Energy Clips or using them as a primary money-making method, this effectively forces a shift in strategy going forward.

Smaller Additions And Bug Fixes Included

While the balance changes are clearly the headline, the update also includes a handful of smaller additions and fixes.

Players can now access a new Rawhide outfit and two additional hairstyles, offering a bit more customisation. On the technical side, several bugs have been addressed, including persistent audio issues from destroyed Comets and Fireballs, collision problems in the Spaceport area, and a glitch that could push players through walls in the Dam Controlled Access Zone.

These fixes may not grab headlines, but they contribute to overall stability and polish, especially for players regularly exploring those areas.

Update Lands Ahead Of Upcoming Flashpoint Content

This patch arrives just ahead of Arc Raiders’ next major content update, Flashpoint, which is expected to launch within the next couple of weeks.

Details on Flashpoint are still fairly limited, but it’s set to introduce a new map condition, an Arc threat, a player project, and a mysterious “Scrappy” update that Embark has yet to fully explain.

In the meantime, Embark continues to respond to player feedback between larger updates, using patches like 1.20.0 to fine-tune balance and address problem areas as they emerge.

Ongoing Changes Come During A Busy Period For Embark

The update also lands during a particularly active period for Embark Studios. Recent headlines have ranged from comments by CEO Patrick Söderlund about reducing AI voice lines in Arc Raiders, to praise for Bungie’s Marathon, and even internal changes following the departure of co-founder and CCO Rob Runesson after allegations of misconduct.

Despite that backdrop, development on Arc Raiders appears to be continuing steadily, with balance updates like this aiming to stabilise gameplay as the team prepares for larger content drops.

With Il Toro now significantly toned down and Energy Clips no longer a reliable cash farm, the meta could shift in noticeable ways over the coming weeks, especially as players experiment and adapt ahead of Flashpoint.

SEO Pack

Focus Keyphrase: Arc Raiders patch 1.20.0
Meta Description: Arc Raiders patch 1.20.0 nerfs Il Toro and Energy Clips, shaking up PvP balance and the in-game economy ahead of Flashpoint.
Slug: arc-raiders-patch-1-20-0-il-toro-nerf
WordPress Tags: Arc Raiders, Arc Raiders patch, Il Toro nerf, Embark Studios, extraction shooter, PvP balance, game updates
Keywords Used: Arc Raiders patch 1.20.0, Il Toro nerf, Energy Clips nerf, Arc Raiders update, Embark Studios, Arc Raiders patch notes

The post Arc Raiders Patch 1.20.0 Nerfs Il Toro And Energy Clips In Major Balance Update appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

If you’ve been waiting to try Bungie’s new extraction shooter, the Marathon Server Slam is almost here. The open preview weekend runs from February 26 at 10 AM PT through to March 2 at 10 AM PT, giving players a few days to jump in before the full launch on March 5.

This Server Slam isn’t just a casual beta. It’s a global technical stress test for Marathon, designed to push the game’s infrastructure at scale for the first time. In short, Bungie wants as many of us logging in, forming crews, infil-ing and exfil-ing as possible so they can see what breaks before launch day.

Marathon Server Slam Release Date And Platforms

The Marathon Server Slam begins February 26 at 10 AM PT and ends March 2 at 10 AM PT. It will be available worldwide.

You can play on Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Cross-play and cross-save are enabled, so you can squad up with mates across platforms and carry your account between them. Importantly, you do not need to purchase Marathon to access the Server Slam.

Console players also won’t need PlayStation Plus during the preview weekend. However, once Marathon fully launches on March 5, a paid online subscription will be required on console.

Preloading will not be available for the Server Slam. Bungie says this is to help manage server load when everything first goes live. Preloading will return for the full launch.

What Makes This A Server Slam

Bungie has been running smaller monthly playtests, but this is the first time all systems are being switched on globally.

Because it’s a stress test, players should expect login queues, disconnects, error codes, and even short-notice maintenance downtime. The goal is to “slam” the servers with as many active players as possible to gather telemetry and fix issues before March 5.

This also means the weekend may feel less stable than launch. Bungie has been upfront that things might break, and that’s very much the point.

Maps And Zones Available During Server Slam

• Perimeter, an edge-site expansion on the colony’s outskirts
• Dire Marsh, the colony’s agricultural research hub

These represent two of the four launch zones. The late-game areas Outpost and Cryo Archive will only be available once Marathon fully launches and Season 1 begins.

The Server Slam is described as a slice of the launch experience. It’s enough to get a feel for the pacing, gunplay, contracts, and progression systems, but not the full package.

Factions, Contracts And Progression

Five factions will offer early contracts during the preview:

• CyberAcme
• NuCaloric
• Traxus
• MIDA
• Arachne

Players can progress through early faction levels and upgrade trees for each of these. The sixth faction, Sekiguchi Genetics, will only unlock at launch.

While you can level up and experiment with upgrades, your overall progression will not carry over to the full game. Instead, your playtime translates into launch rewards.

Runner Shells And Playstyles

The Server Slam includes five of the six Runner shells planned for launch, plus Rook, described as the scavenger experience.

Available shells include:

• Destroyer
• Assassin
• Recon
• Vandal
• Triage

The sixth shell, Thief, will be added at launch alongside Ranked mode and expanded end-game content.

Players can run solo, drop in as a crew, or even form temporary alliances using proximity chat. And yes, you can betray those alliances just as quickly.

Marathon Server Slam Rewards And Arrival Caches

Even though progression resets, Bungie is offering exclusive rewards for participating.

Complete the introductory mission and you’ll unlock a unique Beta.exe emblem and Complex Study player background. These cosmetics are exclusive to Server Slam participants.

Beyond that, your progress unlocks Arrival Caches that will be delivered when Marathon launches on March 5.

Complete your first mission to earn the Standard Arrival Cache, which includes standard implants, Runner shell cores, weapon chip mods, and weapons like Overrun and Hardline.

Reach Runner Level 10 and you’ll unlock the Enhanced Arrival Cache, which upgrades your loot pool with enhanced implants, additional shell cores for each shell, enhanced weapon chip mods, and weapons such as the Enhanced Magnum and Enhanced Hardline.

Hit Runner Level 30 and you’ll earn the Deluxe Arrival Cache. This includes deluxe and enhanced implants, deluxe and enhanced Runner shell cores for every shell, deluxe and enhanced weapon chip mods, weapons like the Deluxe Magnum and Enhanced Volley Rifle, plus an Enhanced Base Backpack.

All of these rewards will be delivered via the in-game mailbox after launch. Bungie notes that rollout may take time, and Twitch Drops can take up to 48 hours to appear and must be redeemed by March 31.

Twitch Drops During The Server Slam

If you prefer watching before jumping in, the Marathon Server Slam also features Twitch Drops.

By linking your Bungie and Twitch accounts and watching streams in the Marathon category during the event window, you can earn cosmetic rewards for launch. Rewards include a Twitch Sponsored Kit, the SMILEYworm emblem, WEAVEworm background, GLOWworm weapon sticker, and the HMG Twitch Engine weapon skin style.

Any stream under the Marathon category counts, making it easy to stack rewards while learning the maps.

What Carries Over And What Does Not

Your faction progress, inventory, and character levels from the Server Slam will not carry over to launch.

What does carry over are your earned cosmetic rewards and Arrival Caches. On top of that, the experience you gain learning Perimeter, Dire Marsh, and the faction systems will naturally give you an advantage on day one.

With launch set for March 5 and Season 1 bringing additional zones, Ranked mode, the Thief Runner shell, and deeper progression, the Marathon Server Slam feels less like a simple beta and more like a final systems check before everything goes live.

For players curious about how Marathon actually feels to play, this weekend is the first large-scale chance to find out.

The post Marathon Server Slam: All You Need To Know About Dates, Rewards And Content appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 is here, and if you’ve been dominating PvP lobbies with the Stitcher or Venator, you’re going to feel this one. Embark Studios has rolled out the Shrouded Sky update with sweeping weapon nerfs, tougher crafting requirements, anti-cheat changes, and a brand-new hurricane map condition that completely changes how you approach a run in the Rust Belt.

📡 Attention, Raiders!
The Shrouded Sky Update is live! ⛈️
Violent hurricanes are sweeping topside, forcing new strategies for low-visibility combat.
Scouts have spotted two new ARC types in the Rust Belt; we advise caution while the storm runs its course, but those who know how… pic.twitter.com/saFDY8Vxfd

— ARC Raiders (@ARCRaidersGame) February 24, 2026

This isn’t a small balance tweak. Version 1.17.0 marks one of the biggest updates yet for Arc Raiders in 2026, and it pushes both PvP and PvE players to rethink their loadouts, strategies, and even how they read the weather.

Shrouded Sky Introduces Hurricanes And New Arc Threats

The headline feature of Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 is the Shrouded Sky content drop. Violent hurricanes now sweep across topside areas, creating low-visibility combat scenarios, powerful gales, and flying debris that can disrupt positioning and extraction plans.

Embark has also introduced two new ARC enemy types in the Rust Belt. While full breakdowns of their behaviour are still unfolding in the community, the studio warns that players who can “read the weather” will find opportunity amid the chaos. This suggests the storm systems are more than just visual flair and may affect spawn behaviour, movement, or engagement patterns.

Alongside the hurricanes, the update adds a Weather Monitoring System as a seasonal player project, a free Raider Deck, an Expedition Window, a Dam Battlegrounds map update, and new facial hair customisation options.

Major PvP Weapon Nerfs Hit Stitcher, Kettle And Venator

If you mainly play PvP, Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 makes its biggest statement through weapon balancing.

The Stitcher, Kettle, and Venator have all received base damage reductions. The Stitcher’s headshot multiplier has been reduced from 2.5 to 1.75, and its base damage drops from 7 to 6.5. On top of that, per-shot dispersion has increased significantly, meaning it blooms faster and loses full-spray accuracy sooner.

The Kettle’s base damage falls from 10 to 8.5. Embark says it wants to differentiate it more clearly from the Stitcher, especially after players began using it like an SMG in close quarters instead of its intended mid-range role.

The Venator, which has consistently topped PvP performance data, sees its headshot multiplier reduced from 2.5 to 2 and its base damage lowered from 9 to 8. Embark has openly acknowledged that the weapon has been dominating PvP encounters and that further adjustments could follow if these changes do not sufficiently rein it in.

Jupiter And Aphelion Receive Buffs

Not everything in Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 is a nerf. Jupiter and Aphelion both receive meaningful buffs aimed at improving viability.

Jupiter now has improved ADS magnification, increasing from roughly 1.9x to around 2.2x, giving players a clearer view for long-range engagements. Equip time drops from 1.2 seconds to 1.05 seconds, while unequip time is reduced from 0.9 seconds to 0.75 seconds, making weapon swaps less punishing.

Aphelion gets a more dramatic rework. Base reload time drops from 4.5 seconds to 3.5 seconds. Time between shots is reduced from 0.9 seconds to 0.7 seconds. Vertical recoil is cut by roughly 50 percent, and ADS settle speed improves by around 35 percent. Embark describes this as an effort to make the legendary weapon feel less bulky and more nimble in PvP.

Crafting Changes Make High Tier Gear Harder To Farm

PvE players are not walking away untouched in Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0. Several powerful items now require additional ARC resources to craft.

Deadline and Trailblazer both see value and trader price increases, alongside the addition of new ARC parts as crafting requirements. Wolfpack now requires a Rocketeer Driver per craft, a rare resource that many players already struggle to farm consistently. Vita Spray now needs an additional Tick Pod, and Showstopper requires a Hornet Driver and swaps one of its crafting components.

Embark has also reduced ARC part sell value to better reflect their progression importance, meaning dumping excess parts for quick currency is now less rewarding.

For players who rely heavily on Wolfpack’s aerial homing explosives for ARC encounters, this is arguably one of the steepest adjustments in the patch.

Semi Auto Weapon Input Buffer Fix Addressed “Shadow Buff”

One of the more technical changes in Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 addresses what players had described as a “shadow buff” to semi-automatic weapons.

Embark confirmed that a previous update unintentionally altered weapon input buffers. This allowed players to spam-click and bypass intended cadence timing, effectively removing some of the skill expression involved in pacing shots.

The new system introduces more granular control over input buffering per weapon. Spam-clicking remains responsive, but players who time their shots correctly should now see better overall performance. This strikes a middle ground between responsiveness and mastery.

Feat Changes And Expedition Catch Up System

Progression also receives a shake-up.

Feats can now be rerolled three times per day for free, while PvP Feats have been removed entirely. Several existing Feats have been updated, and new ones have been added.

There is also a new Expedition catch-up system, allowing players to earn missed Skill Points from previous runs. The UI has been updated to better track this progress, reducing confusion around skill progression.

Candleberries in Blue Gate now count toward the Harvest Plants trial, and players who occasionally missed a skill point due to a results screen bug should now see that issue resolved.

Anti Cheat Enforcement Tightened Further

Embark closes out the Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 patch notes with a firm anti-cheat message.

The studio explains that its detection systems operate on multiple levels, including behavioural analysis, gameplay telemetry, and machine learning models. Serious infractions will now carry stricter consequences, with strong detections resulting in immediate permanent bans. Other cases may receive temporary suspensions with a single chance to correct behaviour.

Family Sharing updates have strengthened their ability to remove repeat offenders, and Embark is preparing a systematic manual review process for ban appeals. The team describes the anti-cheat effort as an ongoing fight and emphasises continued investment in precision enforcement.

Smaller Additions And Quality Of Life Changes

Beyond balance and anti-cheat, Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 introduces a surprising amount of polish.

Players can now interact with a piano topside, expanding the growing list of playable instruments. NVIDIA Freestyle filters can no longer all be enabled simultaneously, removing what Embark calls an unfair visual advantage.

Ziplines can no longer be placed on carryable objects or ARC remnants in ways that consume items incorrectly. Mines, traps, and remote flares cannot be stacked onto other deployables. Performance improvements, lighting fixes across maps, animation polish, audio adjustments, UI clarity improvements, and additional localisation updates round out the patch.

Even Scrappy has been adjusted, and will now “cluck less frequently” after player feedback about excessive noise.

What Comes Next For Arc Raiders In 2026

Shrouded Sky pushes Arc Raiders halfway through Embark’s four-month 2026 roadmap.

Flashpoint is expected in late March with more threats and changes to Scrappy, while Riven Tides is set to introduce a new map and a new large ARC in April.

Arc Raiders Update 1.17.0 sets a clear tone for the year. Embark is willing to nerf dominant PvP weapons, make powerful PvE gear harder to craft, and overhaul systems like input buffering and anti-cheat enforcement, all while layering in environmental mechanics like hurricanes that directly impact gameplay flow.

For Raiders who enjoy adapting to shifting metas and evolving conditions, Shrouded Sky is less about comfort and more about learning to survive in a storm.

The post Arc Raiders Shrouded Sky Update Brings Weapon Nerfs And Hurricanes appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Battlestate Games has officially shared the Escape from Tarkov 2026 roadmap, outlining what players can expect across the first half of the year. The preliminary roadmap covers two major patches, 1.0.4.0 in Q1 and 1.0.5.0 in Q2, and confirms a new boss, a large-scale in-game event, and a range of performance and quality-of-life improvements.

Preliminary roadmap for #EscapefromTarkov for the first half of 2026. pic.twitter.com/idYshqvapo

— Escape from Tarkov (@tarkov) February 18, 2026

The studio posted the roadmap via its official channels, framing it as a look ahead to the first six months of 2026. Following the long-awaited 1.0 launch in November, Battlestate appears focused on stabilising systems while also injecting fresh content into the extraction shooter.

EFT Patch 1.0.4.0 Launches In Q1 With DLSS 4.5 And Core Fixes

The first major update of the year, Escape from Tarkov Patch 1.0.4.0, is scheduled for Q1 2026. One of the headline additions is DLSS 4.5 support, which should offer improved performance and visual stability for players running compatible NVIDIA hardware.

Beyond that, Battlestate is targeting technical improvements to story task functionality and reward distribution, an area that has drawn consistent feedback from the community. Weapon animations and movement while aiming are being reworked, suggesting a continued effort to refine the gunplay feel that Tarkov is known for.

Players can also expect new sound effects for dropped magazines, alongside balancing fixes, quality-of-life changes, and cumulative adjustments based directly on player feedback. A raid reconnect system rework is also listed, which could address one of the more frustrating issues in high-stakes matches.

EFT Patch 1.0.5.0 Brings New Boss And Large-Scale Event In Q2

The heart of the Escape from Tarkov 2026 roadmap sits in Patch 1.0.5.0, scheduled for Q2. Battlestate has confirmed a large-scale in-game event that will introduce a new boss character, though the boss remains unnamed for now.

The event will likely serve as the narrative and gameplay introduction for the new boss. While specific mechanics have not been revealed, boss encounters in Tarkov typically shift the risk-reward balance of raids, so this could significantly change how certain locations play.

Patch 1.0.5.0 also focuses heavily on performance improvements. Battlestate is working on reducing match loading and exit times, as well as improving interface performance outside of raids. A culling system update is planned to boost in-raid performance, something long-time players have repeatedly requested.

Environmental changes are on the way too, with a vegetation rework across all locations. That could impact visibility, sightlines, and overall map flow. The update will also include balancing fixes, further quality-of-life adjustments, and new PMC customisation options.

More Content Teased For The Second Half Of 2026

The roadmap graphic ends with a simple “More to come in the second half of 2026”, confirming that Battlestate’s plans extend beyond these two patches.

Fans are already speculating about the game’s first DLC drop, which is expected to focus on playing as a Scav character in a more expanded form. While no firm details or release window have been provided, earlier discussions around post-launch content have hinted that the Scav-focused expansion could be substantial.

With Escape from Tarkov now fully released and available on Steam since November, 2026 looks set to be a year of refinement and expansion. Between a new boss event, system overhauls, and ongoing performance work, Battlestate Games appears intent on strengthening the foundation while keeping raids unpredictable.

The post Escape From Tarkov 2026 Roadmap Reveals New Boss And Major Q2 Event appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Update: Embark Studios says Arc Raiders servers are now recovering. In a Discord message posted late on January 28, the developer thanked players for their patience and asked the community to report any remaining issues as stability continues to improve.

Arc Raiders is facing widespread server instability following the Highwinds update, with players around the world reporting severe lag, matchmaking failures, and lost loot. Developer Embark Studios has confirmed the problems are linked to ongoing coordinated DDoS attacks affecting both Arc Raiders and THE FINALS, and is actively advising players to be cautious when logging in.

Server Instability Leaves Matches Unplayable

Since earlier today, players have flooded Downdetector and social platforms with complaints about rubber banding, disconnections, and characters freezing mid match. Many report being unable to move for long stretches, only to time out and lose full kits, blueprints, and loadouts as a result.

At the height of the outage, Downdetector logged more than 10,000 reports globally. Data shows that 81 percent of affected players experienced server connection failures, 16 percent struggled to launch the game, and a smaller portion reported extreme in match lag. Matchmaking failures and mid game crashes were among the most common complaints.

Several players noted that switching their server region to automatic reduced rubber banding, but for many others the game remained effectively unplayable, with reports of teleporting characters, random deaths, and failed extractions.

Player Reports Highlight Loot Loss And Progression Issues

The most serious concern for the community has been permanent loot loss. Players describe being disconnected during raids, forced to abandon matches, or dying while unable to heal or move. In several cases, valuable items stored in safe pockets or carried to extraction were lost after server timeouts.

As a result, frustration has grown quickly, with some players calling on Embark to take servers offline entirely for emergency maintenance. Others are asking for compensation or item restoration, arguing that the losses occurred through no fault of their own.

Embark Confirms Coordinated DDoS Attacks

In a series of Discord updates, Embark confirmed that both Arc Raiders and The Finals are under active, coordinated DDoS attacks. According to the studio, its strike team is deploying mitigations and making progress, but the attacks are still ongoing at the time of writing.

Image via Arc Raiders Discord Server

Embark first acknowledged instability earlier in the day and warned players to be careful when logging in to avoid losing items or progression. Servers briefly showed signs of recovery before instability returned, prompting renewed warnings from the team.

Timeline Of Official Updates In Popular Time Zones

Based on Embark’s Discord announcements, here is how today’s events line up across major regions:

• Initial reports of instability received
  January 28, 01:20 UTC
• Servers beginning to recover
  January 28, 02:24 UTC
• Instability returns
  January 28, 05:51 UTC
• Servers stabilising again, caution advised
  January 28, 07:00 UTC

Embark later confirmed the DDoS attacks publicly and reiterated that fixes are ongoing.

Hotfix Addresses Patch Issues, Xbox Delayed

Alongside the server problems, Embark has begun rolling out a hotfix to resolve unintended changes introduced in the Highwinds update version 1.13.0. Fixes include correcting unintentional weapon fire rate reductions, restoring missing cosmetics tied to Raider Tokens, addressing localisation errors, and rebalancing initial loot appearance speed.

Xbox players will receive the hotfix later than other platforms, and cross play on Xbox is temporarily disabled during this period.

What Players Should Do Right Now

Embark’s current advice is clear, log in carefully or avoid playing altogether until stability fully returns. While servers may appear accessible, the risk of losing loot and progression remains high while the attacks continue.

Looking ahead, the response to these issues may shape how Embark handles live service disruptions in the future, particularly around emergency maintenance and potential compensation. For now, Arc Raiders players are best served by staying off the battlefield until the studio confirms the situation is fully resolved.

The post Arc Raiders Server Issues Hit After Highwinds Update As Embark Confirms DDoS Attacks, Don’t Log in! appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

ARC Raiders has officially kicked off 2026 with its first major update, Headwinds, and it is a chunky one. Patch 1.13.0 is now live, bringing new high risk matchmaking, long term progression projects, fresh map twists in Buried City, and a wide range of fixes and improvements across the board.

Alongside the update, the developers have also shared a clear roadmap for the next four months, teasing even bigger changes on the way with Shrouded Sky, Flashpoint, and Riven Tides.

Here is everything you need to know about the Headwinds update and what is coming next.

Headwinds Update Now Live

The Headwinds update sets the tone for the year, both thematically and mechanically. Sandstorms are tearing through the Rust Belt, birds are gathering across Buried City rooftops, and some Raiders are pushing their luck by taking on squads solo for sport.

The update is available now and applies across all platforms, with Patch 1.13.0 introducing new gameplay systems, content, and extensive polish.

Solo Vs Squads Matchmaking Explained

One of the headline additions is Solo vs Squads, a new matchmaking option aimed at highly skilled and confident players.

Solo Raiders who are level 40 or above can now toggle Solo vs Squads in the matchmaking menu. This allows them to queue into squad lobbies alone and take on full teams head on.

To balance the added danger, players who opt in will receive a 20 percent bonus XP at the end of the round, whether they successfully extract or are defeated. This mode leans heavily into the PvP side of ARC Raiders and is designed for players looking for higher stakes and faster progression.

ARC Trophy Display Project And Long Term Rewards

Headwinds also introduces the Trophy Display project, a new long term progression system focused on hunting ARC enemies.

Players can collect parts from increasingly dangerous ARC encounters and submit them to build a Display Case at home base. The project is completed over five stages, similar in structure to the Candleberry Project.

Each step rewards players with blueprints and Raider Tokens, while full completion unlocks additional rewards including a Howl emote, a guitar cosmetic, and 300,000 Coins. There is currently no fixed end date for the project, and it will not be affected by Expedition resets, making it a true long term goal.

Bird City Brings New Rooftop Combat

Buried City has gained a new permanent map condition known informally as Bird City.

Flocks of birds have moved into the area, building nests inside empty chimneys and storing shiny trinkets that Raiders can loot. These nests are worth checking carefully, especially for players willing to risk rooftop encounters.

This condition applies only to Buried City and will rotate in and out on a weekly basis. When active, players can expect more bird traps, additional ziplines, increased rooftop combat, more flying ARC enemies, and a higher chance of running into other Raiders nearby.

New Items, Quests And Cosmetics

The update also adds fresh content to chase, including two new Epic Augments and seven new quests.

On the cosmetic side, Headwinds introduces new sets such as the Sandwalker Set, expanding visual customisation options for Raiders heading topside.

Open Parties And Squad Quality Of Life Upgrades

Patch 1.13.0 delivers several highly requested social improvements.

Players can now set their party to open, allowing Embark and platform friends to join seamlessly, even if the host is mid round and returning to the lobby. Squad invites have also been expanded, letting squadmates invite others, not just the party leader.

Discord integration has been improved too. Players with linked accounts can invite Discord friends directly or allow them to join automatically if open party is enabled. A new display now appears when a friend joins a party while a player is topside.

Extensive Bug Fixes And Gameplay Improvements

As expected from a major update, Headwinds includes a long list of fixes and tuning passes.

Enemy behaviour has been improved across several ARC types, including better obstacle traversal, smarter reactions from Snitches, and improved movement for Leapers after losing limbs. Ticks now give players a short window to dodge roll and remove them when grabbed.

Map fixes address stuck spots, collision issues, invisible walls, lighting problems, and unintended traversal across Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, Spaceport, and Stella Montis. The Seed Vault extraction exploit on Stella Montis has also been fixed.

Movement, UI, audio, and input handling have all received polish, with improvements to voice chat stability, gamepad rebinding, aim assist consistency, and high framerate input registration.

A new matchmaking delay option has been added to help mitigate stream sniping, while mouse smoothing is now configurable.

Anti Cheat And Known Issues

The team has confirmed that a three strikes progressive ban system is in the process of being implemented. Repeat offenders will face bans escalating from 30 days, to 60 days, and ultimately a permanent ban.

There are still a few known issues being tracked, including missing pop ups for Solo vs Squads unlocks, occasional missing skill points on the result screen, and cosmetic preview inconsistencies. The developers note that restarting or playing another round resolves some of these issues.

ARC Raiders Update Roadmap Through April

Looking ahead, the ARC Raiders team has outlined a clear roadmap for the next four months.

Image Credit: Embark Studios

February’s Shrouded Sky update will introduce a major new map condition, a new enemy type, a new player project, a new Raider Deck, and further map updates. A second Expedition window will also open during February.

March brings the Flashpoint update, which will add another map condition, a new ARC threat, a new player project, and updates to Scrappy the Rooster.

April’s Riven Tides update is shaping up to be the biggest yet, promising an entirely new map, a new Large ARC enemy, another new map condition, and an additional Expedition window.

A Strong Start To 2026 For ARC Raiders

With Headwinds, ARC Raiders has delivered a meaningful mix of high risk gameplay, long term progression, and much needed quality of life improvements. The Solo vs Squads option alone opens up a new challenge tier for experienced players, while the Trophy Display project gives everyone something big to work towards.

Combined with a packed roadmap through April, Headwinds feels like a confident opening move for ARC Raiders in 2026, and a clear sign that much bigger changes are still on the horizon.

The post ARC Raiders Headwinds Update Goes Live With Solo Vs Squads, Trophy Displays And Major Quality Of Life Changes appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

ARC Raiders is heading into 2026 with momentum, and developer Embark Studios is making it clear that things are only going to get more dangerous topside. A new Escalation roadmap has now been revealed, outlining what players can expect from January through April 2026, including new map conditions, rising ARC threats, fresh progression systems, and a brand new map later in the season.

📡 Attention, Raiders!
We survived the Cold Snap, but don’t drop your guard.
Topside is changing – extreme weather ravages the surface while ARC numbers are climbing.
Lock your loadout, the scale of the impending escalation remains unknown…https://t.co/t8P6I6KLcO pic.twitter.com/xV9t0BdIZb

— ARC Raiders (@ARCRaidersGame) January 23, 2026

Following the end of the Cold Snap event, the world of ARC Raiders is shifting fast. Extreme weather continues to tear through the surface, ARC numbers are climbing, and the Rustbelt is becoming increasingly volatile as the scale of the impending escalation remains unknown.

The Cold Snap Ends, But The Danger Remains

The ARC Raiders team has warned players not to let their guard down after surviving the Cold Snap. While the harshest conditions may have passed, the effects still linger across the surface.

Topside is changing, extreme weather is now a permanent threat, and ARC activity is intensifying across key zones. Speranza continues to rely on Raiders scavenging the surface, but each run into the Rustbelt now carries greater risk as conditions grow more unstable and ARC presence expands.

The developers describe this phase as the beginning of a much larger escalation, one where no single faction holds all the answers.

Monthly Updates Begin With Escalation

Embark Studios has confirmed that ARC Raiders will now receive a content update every month going forward. The Escalation roadmap covers the game’s first full four months of 2026, offering a broad look at new enemies, map changes, conditions, and systems without revealing every detail.

Each month carries its own theme and set of additions, steadily building toward a major update in April.

January 2026 Headwinds Update

Despite January already being well underway, the Headwinds update still brings meaningful changes before the month wraps up. The standout addition is a new level 40 plus matchmaking option, giving higher level PvE and PvP players more freedom without being matched against significantly stronger Raiders.

January also introduces a new map condition teased by a bird icon, alongside a new player project designed to deepen progression and long term goals.

February 2026 Shrouded Sky Expands The Battlefield

February’s Shrouded Sky update continues the steady rollout of systems and threats. Players can expect a new map update, the arrival of the Raider Deck, an Expedition Window feature, and another player project.

More intriguingly, February introduces a new ARC threat and a fresh map condition marked by a wind icon, hinting at dangerous environmental changes that could dramatically alter how raids unfold.

March 2026 Flashpoint Brings Scrappy Back Into Focus

March ramps things up again with Flashpoint. Another ARC threat and new map condition arrive, alongside a fresh player project to pursue.

Scrappy, the fan favourite resource collecting rooster, is also set to receive an update as winter conditions finally begin to fade. While details are still limited, Embark has hinted that Scrappy will receive some long overdue attention during this phase of Escalation.

April 2026 Riven Tides Delivers A New Map And Major ARC Threat

April is shaping up to be the biggest moment of the roadmap. Riven Tides introduces an entirely new ARC Raiders map, alongside a new large scale ARC threat.

The threat is currently teased only by a skull icon, suggesting a powerful new enemy on the level of the Matriarch or Queen. The umbrella icon and Riven Tides title point toward coastal or water filled environments, potentially bringing beaches, flooded zones, and polluted shorelines into the fight.

This will mark the second new map since ARC Raiders launched, following Stella Montis which arrived in November 2025.

More Content Planned Beyond April

Embark Studios has made it clear that Escalation is only the beginning. While the roadmap currently runs through April, the team has confirmed that monthly updates will continue beyond that point, with plans from May onward still being kept under wraps.

The studio is also continuing its efforts to combat cheaters and improve quality of life, including addressing late spawns and tightening security across existing maps.

ARC Raiders launched on October 30, 2025, and with Escalation now underway, 2026 is shaping up to be the game’s most ambitious year yet. Raiders heading topside should lock in their loadouts and stay alert, the Rustbelt is only getting more dangerous from here.

The post ARC Raiders Escalation Roadmap Revealed With New Map, ARC Threats And Major Updates Through April 2026 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

After years of waiting and a lengthy delay, Marathon finally has a locked-in release date. Bungie has confirmed that its upcoming PvPvE extraction shooter will launch on March 5, 2026, arriving on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, priced at USD $39.99.

The announcement comes alongside a fresh gameplay trailer, full pre-order details, Collector’s Edition reveals, and even a striking new Marathon-themed DualSense controller. For Bungie, this marks its first completely new release since Destiny 2 launched back in 2017, and a major step into the competitive extraction shooter space.

A Modern Reimagining Of A Cult Classic

Originally released in the 1990s, Marathon was once a linear, story-driven first-person shooter. This new version is a complete reimagining, shifting the franchise into a modern PvPvE extraction shooter set in the year 2850.

Players take on the role of bio-cybernetic Runners, dropping into the dangerous world of Tau Ceti IV either solo or in squads of three. Each run challenges players to scavenge weapons, loot, and narrative clues while surviving hostile AI forces, rival Runners, and unpredictable environments. Extraction is never guaranteed, and every decision carries real risk.

Unlike traditional shooters, progression is tied closely to survival, information gathering, and long-term planning rather than simple match wins.

Delay, Feedback, And A Second Chance

Marathon was originally targeting a September release window, but Bungie delayed the game last June after mixed-to-negative reactions from its early alpha playtest. Feedback highlighted issues with cluttered UI design, gunplay that lacked impact, and pacing that felt slow compared to other extraction shooters already on the market.

Rather than rushing to launch, Bungie chose to rework core systems and rebalance gameplay. That decision pushed Marathon’s release back nearly six months, but it also gave the studio time to refine its vision and respond directly to player concerns.

The delay period wasn’t without controversy. An independent artist publicly accused Bungie of using art assets that closely resembled her work, including signage and decals. Bungie later confirmed the issue, and by December, the artist stated that she, Bungie, and Sony had reached an agreement that resolved the matter to her satisfaction.

Factions, Contracts, And Living Storytelling

The newly released gameplay trailer introduces Gantry, an agent of the anti-establishment MIDA faction, one of six major factions operating on Tau Ceti. Factions play a central role in Marathon’s storytelling, progression, and world-building.

By completing faction-specific contracts, players unlock upgrades, rewards, and narrative threads that gradually reveal the mystery behind humanity’s lost interstellar expedition. Bungie describes Marathon’s story delivery as discoverable rather than linear, with lore unfolding through contracts, Codex entries, audio logs, graffiti, abandoned systems, and environmental storytelling.

Everything you uncover is tracked in an out-of-run Codex, allowing players to piece together Tau Ceti’s fate between deployments.

Endgame Zones And Seasonal Progression

Marathon’s long-term structure includes seasonal content and endgame challenges. One of the first major endgame locations, Cryo Archive, will unlock during Season 1. Set aboard the UESC Marathon ship, the zone tasks players with breaching security systems, opening frozen vaults, and eventually confronting an entity feared even by the UESC.

Players will rely on faction upgrades, Runner shells, weapons, mods, and implants to survive deeper runs and higher-risk zones as the game evolves post-launch.

Voice Cast And Full Localisation

Bungie also confirmed Marathon’s extensive English-language voice cast at launch, featuring well-known talent including Roger Clark, Ben Starr, Neil Newbon, Erica Lindbeck, Jennifer English, Dave Fennoy, and many more.

The studio has also confirmed that Marathon will feature fully localised dialogue across all supported languages, with additional voice casts to be revealed closer to launch.

Editions, Pre-Orders, And Cross-Play Support

Marathon is available to pre-order now in Standard and Deluxe editions across all platforms, with full cross-play and cross-save supported at launch.

Image Credit: Bungie

Image Credit: Bungie

The Standard Edition includes access to all gameplay updates throughout the year, including maps, Runner shells, and events. Pre-order bonuses include weapon cosmetics, emblems, backgrounds, and exclusive Destiny 2 rewards linked to a Bungie.net account.

Image Credit: Bungie

Image Credit: Bungie

The Deluxe Edition adds premium cosmetic bundles, a Rewards Pass voucher, SILK tokens, and exclusive Midnight Decay weapon and Runner shell styles.

Image Credit: Bungie

For collectors, Bungie has also revealed a premium Collector’s Edition, featuring a 1/6-scale Thief Runner Shell statue, a WEAVEworm collectible, embroidered patches, postcards, digital rewards, and a high-end unboxing experience inspired by Sekiguchi Genetics’ shell-weaving process.

Limited Edition Marathon DualSense Controller Revealed

Alongside the game, Bungie and PlayStation have unveiled a Limited Edition Marathon DualSense wireless controller, designed to feel like an in-universe object from Tau Ceti.

Image Credit: Sony

The controller features bold graphics, fractured shapes, and vivid accents inspired by Marathon’s industrial sci-fi aesthetic. It launches on March 5, 2026, with global pricing set at USD $84.99, and will be available in limited quantities.

Pre-orders for the controller begin on January 29, 2026, via direct.playstation.com where available, as well as select retailers. Availability may vary by region.

High Stakes For Bungie And Sony

With recent multiplayer setbacks such as Concord, expectations are high for Marathon. The extraction shooter market is already crowded, with titles like Arc Raiders gaining strong momentum. Whether Marathon can carve out lasting success remains an open question.

Still, after years of development, feedback-driven delays, and renewed focus, players will finally be able to see whether Bungie’s bold reinvention of Marathon can stand out when it launches this March.

The post Marathon Release Date Confirmed For March With New Trailer And Limited Edition DualSense Controller appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Winter has officially hit the Rust Belt in Arc Raiders, and it is not pulling any punches. Embark Studios has rolled out the Cold Snap update alongside the hefty 1.7.0 patch, bringing snowy map conditions, a limited-time winter event, new progression options, and one of the longest lists of fixes and quality of life improvements the extraction shooter has seen so far.

The update went live on December 16, 2025, and it marks the final major milestone on Arc Raiders’ 2025 roadmap.

Cold Snap Brings Snow, Frostbite, and New Map Conditions

The headline feature of the update is the Cold Snap map condition, which transforms familiar locations with snow, blizzards, and freezing winds. Blue Gate’s valleys are now battered by icy storms, the abandoned Spaceport is swept by blizzards, and other topside areas feel far more hostile than before.

Image Credit: Embark Studios

Cold Snap is more than just a visual change. Reduced visibility, footprint tracking, and a frostbite mechanic force players to rethink how they move through outdoor areas. Staying outside for too long can be dangerous, encouraging more indoor fights and tense close-quarters encounters.

The Snowfall condition can appear across Dam Battlegrounds, Buried City, Spaceport, and Blue Gate, adding a fresh layer of unpredictability to each raid.

Flickering Flames Event and Winter Rewards

Alongside Cold Snap, Embark has launched the Flickering Flames event. While playing during the event, players can earn a new event currency and unlock up to 25 rewards, including gear, cosmetics, and Raider Tokens.

There is also a new multi-stage project called Candleberry Banquet. This task chain sends players across maps to collect specific items, gradually building a banquet table and unlocking more event rewards along the way.

For players who have already completed the full Expedition experience, this update introduces the option to start over with a fresh character. Doing so grants permanent bonuses such as cosmetics, extra stash space, and permanent skill points, offering a new long-term goal for veteran raiders.

New Free Raider Deck and Expedition Changes

A new free Raider Deck called “Goalie” is set to arrive on December 26, giving all players another playstyle option without spending premium currency.

Image Credit: Embark Studios

The update also introduces the Expedition Departure Window, giving players clearer information and more control when extracting. Expedition Projects have been expanded with better progress tracking, clearer reward displays, and improved UI feedback during matches.

Big Gameplay Improvements in Patch 1.7.0

While the winter content sets the mood, patch 1.7.0 delivers major gameplay upgrades across the board.

One of the most requested features, Skill Tree Reset, is now available. Players can respec their builds in exchange for Coins, at a cost of 2,000 Coins per skill point, making experimentation far less punishing.

An option to toggle Aim Down Sights has also been added, alongside a new Cinematic graphics preset designed to push visuals on high-end PCs.

The Wallet now shows a Cred soft cap of 800. Embark says this change is intended to prevent players from stockpiling Cred to instantly unlock new Raider Decks, while still respecting any Cred earned before the cap was introduced.

Raider Tool customisation has also arrived, giving players more control over their loadouts and playstyle.

Weapon Balance and ARC Enemy Updates

Several weapons received targeted balance changes in the Cold Snap update.

The Bettina assault rifle has been buffed to reduce its reliance on a secondary weapon. Its durability burn rate has been heavily reduced, magazine size increased from 20 to 22, and reload time shortened, making it more reliable in PVP while keeping its strong PVE identity.

The Rattler received a small but meaningful buff, with its magazine size increased from 10 to 12. This brings its early-level PVP time-to-kill closer to other close-range options, without changing its deliberate, cover-focused role.

On the enemy side, the ARC Shredder has been significantly improved. Knockback from weapons has been reduced, movement and turning speed increased, navigation improved, and more body parts can now be destroyed. The result is a more aggressive and reliable threat that enters combat faster and behaves more consistently.

Maps, Spawns, and Quality of Life Fixes

Patch 1.7.0 includes a huge number of map fixes and system improvements. Player spawn logic has been improved, particularly in Stella Montis, to reduce cases of players spawning too close together.

Security Lockers now spawn dynamically across all maps, loot and Supply Drops are less likely to appear inside terrain, and countless collision and geometry issues have been fixed. Blue Gate received a new Locked Gate map condition, improved navigation near ledges, and better tree visuals at distance.

Electromagnetic Storms can now leave behind valuable items after lightning strikes, and spawn locations for resources like Great Mullein have been expanded.

UI, Audio, Console, and Stability Updates

The update also brings sweeping improvements to UI, audio, and stability. Achievements are now enabled on the Epic Games Store, directional audio for ARC enemies has been improved, footstep sounds have been refined, and a long list of audio bugs has been squashed.

Console players benefit from updated PlayStation 5 controller prompts and fixes for Xbox crashes. Across all platforms, Embark has addressed numerous crashes, including AMD-related issues, and improved input handling when alt-tabbing or switching focus.

From inventory management and quest tracking to VOIP reliability and menu navigation, nearly every system in Arc Raiders has seen polish or fixes in this patch.

A Strong End to Arc Raiders’ 2025 Roadmap

With the Cold Snap update and patch 1.7.0, Embark Studios has delivered a content-packed winter update that mixes seasonal flavour with meaningful gameplay improvements. New events, better progression tools, improved balance, and an enormous list of fixes make this one of the most significant updates Arc Raiders has received since launch.

Whether you are diving back in for the winter events or returning to see how the game has evolved, there is plenty here to explore. Just remember to stay warm out there, Raiders.

The post Arc Raiders Cold Snap Update Goes Live With Massive 1.7.0 Patch and Winter Events appeared first on Shane the Gamer.