Embark Studios has confirmed the Shrouded Sky update for Arc Raiders launches Tuesday, February 24 at 2 AM PT across all platforms. The major content drop introduces destructive hurricanes, a new aerial ARC enemy, and the extraction shooter's first free raider deck.
Global Launch Times
The update goes live simultaneously worldwide at the following times:
The Swedish studio announced the release window on their official Discord server February 17, confirming the update arrives in the final week of February. Based on previous expansion launches like Cold Snap, Tuesday releases have become standard for major Arc Raiders updates.
What Shrouded Sky Brings
Hurricanes represent the headline feature. These destructive storms will force raiders to adapt their strategies when caught in extreme weather conditions. The key here is understanding when to push objectives versus seeking shelter from the devastating winds.
A new aerial ARC threat joins the enemy roster. Early footage suggests electromagnetic capabilities, though full details remain under wraps until launch. This flying enemy fundamentally changes engagement dynamics by attacking from above.
The update introduces player projects, a new progression system offering raiders additional goals beyond standard raids. What most players miss is this represents Arc Raiders' first structured long-term objectives.
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The free raider deck functions as a battle pass alternative, giving all players access to rewards without payment barriers.
Map Improvements and New Quests
While Shrouded Sky doesn't add an entirely new map, existing locations receive significant updates. Map condition events now include dynamic weather systems that alter gameplay mid-raid.
New quests provide fresh objectives for veteran players. These additions complement the Shared Watch event currently running through the update's launch.
Exploit Bans Precede Update
Embark Studios addressed item duplication exploits ahead of the launch. The developer completed investigations into players who abused glitches affecting the in-game economy.
Punishments range from warnings for minor cases to suspensions for severe violations. The studio removed coins tied to exploit activity and issued bans where abuse significantly impacted other players' experiences.
You'll want to ensure your account remains in good standing before the update drops. Pro tip: report any bugs you discover through official channels rather than exploiting them.
Platform Availability
Shrouded Sky launches simultaneously on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Steam, and Epic Games Store. Cross-platform play remains active, allowing raiders to team up regardless of platform.
The update follows Embark's pattern of Tuesday releases at 2 AM PT, though exact times may vary by 30 minutes based on deployment schedules. Previous updates have gone live between 1:30 and 2:00 AM Pacific.
What This Means for Raiders
The February update represents Arc Raiders' most ambitious content drop since early access launch. Hurricanes fundamentally alter moment-to-moment gameplay by introducing unpredictable environmental hazards.
The free raider deck signals Embark's commitment to accessible progression systems. Unlike traditional battle passes requiring upfront payment, this approach rewards active play without monetary barriers.
Aerial threats expand combat beyond ground-level engagements. Raiders must now account for attacks from multiple angles, increasing tactical complexity during extractions.
Preparing for Launch
Complete the Shared Watch event before February 24 to maximize rewards before the new content arrives. The community event ends when Shrouded Sky goes live.
Ensure your platform has sufficient storage space. Major updates typically require several gigabytes depending on platform and existing installation.
The thing about these weather systems is they'll likely create entirely new metas around positioning and timing. Experienced raiders should prepare to relearn map rotations once hurricanes enter the equation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What time does Arc Raiders Shrouded Sky release?
The update launches February 24 at 2:00 AM PT, 5:00 AM ET, 10:00 AM GMT, and 11:00 AM CET across all platforms simultaneously.
Will Shrouded Sky add a new map?
No, the update modifies existing maps with new weather conditions and improvements rather than introducing an entirely new location.
Is the raider deck free?
Yes, the new raider deck functions as a free battle pass alternative, providing rewards without requiring payment.
What platforms support the update?
Shrouded Sky launches on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Steam, and Epic Games Store with full cross-platform support.
