Arc Raiders Reward Pass replaces Raider Decks with tied progression in Frozen Trail update
Embark Studios is overhauling player progression with the Reward Pass system, designed to fix issues where players could complete rewards too quickly. The new system launches October 8 with the Frozen Trail update.

Embark Studios is replacing Raider Decks with a new Reward Pass system ahead of the Frozen Trail update, arriving October 8, 2026. The developers describe the Reward Pass as a natural evolution of the previous progression mechanic, with improvements aimed at making rewards feel more meaningful.
Raider Decks allowed players to finish progression tracks too quickly by spending saved-up currency, leaving little motivation to continue tackling Feats once rewards were claimed. The Reward Pass ties progression directly to the update and its activities, requiring players to complete Feats to unlock rewards including outfits, cosmetic items, gadgets, weapons, and Raider Tokens.
Embark Studios acknowledged the problem in a statement: "When a new Raider Deck released, many players were able to finish them right away thanks to the Cred they'd saved up. This made the rewards feel much less rewarding. It also left very little motivation to keep tackling Feats."
The Frozen Trail update marks the first implementation of the new Reward Pass system. By binding progression rewards to specific update content and activities, the developers hope to create a more engaging long-term experience that keeps players invested throughout each season.
Sources
- ShacknewsEstablished publication · recorded Sep 28, 2026Arc Raiders devs break down Reward Pass ahead of player progression revamp in Frozen Trail
- GamingBoltSecondary publication · recorded Sep 29, 2026ARC Raiders Introducing Dynamic Loot Zones With Frozen Trail’s Pendola Pass
- GamingBoltSecondary publication · recorded Sep 29, 2026ARC Raiders is Replacing Raider Decks With Reward Passes in Frozen Trail Update
- GamesRadar+Secondary publication · recorded Sep 29, 2026Arc Raiders devs "were super unhappy" and "super tired" after the shooter's huge launch, lead says
