If you were waiting for Arc Raiders updates, then there is good news for you! The game’s “Headwinds” update introduces exciting features that will reward players with exceptional buffs. 

 

Additions of the widely-acclaimed Solo vs Squads matchmaking option and fresh quests indicate that the Headwinds update finally heard community concerns. Curious to know what's new to expect? Let us now explore which buffs offer optimum profits to players.

Arc Raiders Headwinds Update : Everything You Need To Know 

The Arc Raiders 1.13.0 Headwinds update, released on January 27, 2026, is the first significant update of this year under the new Escalation roadmap. This update indicates the sharp turn to solo challenges and highlights the end of the Cold Snap winter season. While it is known that the patch notes have several updates, and among them, the following ones are the most-loved by the casual and long-time Arc Raiders players. 

Solo vs. Squad Matchmaking Buff

  • Why Players are Appreciating It : It made solo play rewarding now. 

The buff allows solo players who reached Level 40 to enter the squad-based lobbies, where they will face a complete team. Most importantly, the game grants a 20% XP bonus after a match ends, irrespective of whether the player survives. 

High-Tier Weapons Loot Chance

  • Why Players are Appreciating It : Better weapons ensure efficient combat. 

The Headwinds update increases the drop rates of high-tier equipment found in weapon cases. This feature benefits players to get stronger guns during exploration, especially in challenging areas.  

Tick Grab Dodge-Roll Escape

  • Why Players are Appreciating It : It reduces irritating, inevitable loss. 

Players now have a chance to do a dodge-roll after being trapped by a Tick enemy, allowing them to be free. Earlier, the grabbed player had to suffer an unavoidable damage, but now, if you act quickly, there's a chance that you can save yourself. 

Trophy Display Project 

  • Why Players are Appreciating It : Offers practical and rewarding goals.

This feature is released as a "long-term progression system" that requires players to collect ARC enemy parts to unlock freebies, like blueprints, cosmetic items, Raider Tokens, and currency. The best part is that the progress of the Trophy Display Project remains as it is, even after updates or expedition cycles. 

Brand-new Epic Augments and Quests

  • Why Players are Appreciating It : More choices make gameplay enjoyable.

The 1.13.0 Headwinds update brings new Epic Augments variants that help players with more builds and customization options. Alongside these augments, multiple fresh quests have been introduced that encourage players to experiment with different strategies to attain victory. 

Wrapping-Up 

Considering all the pointers, the new Arc Raiders 1.13.0 Headwinds update focuses on making gameplay more interesting, rewarding and fairer for everyday players. Buffs like Solo vs. Squad Matchmaking and Trophy Display Project exploration benefit players while allowing them to progress using practical strategies.