As a native Floridian, I know all too well the devastating impact a hurricane can have. In Rust Belt, 2181, who knows what awaits.
Embark has confirmed a new Hurricane map condition is on the way in Arc Raiders.
"The climate is damaged and unpredictable, causing violent weather events across the surface. You’ve already experienced some of them, but southern Italy is about to kick up another challenge to Raiders who dare to brave the surface," the developer teased. "Speranza has weathered storms before, but none quite like the approaching Hurricane. Citizens can hear the screeching winds from their refuge below ground; winds that batter and bruise Raiders fool-hardy enough to venture up."
Hurricanes won't just impact the visuals of the map. Their effects will have a noticable impact on your actual gameplay experience.
The wind will affect your movement. When you've got a tailwind at yur back, you'll move more quickly and feel nimble. However, if you're running against the gales, you'll be drastically slower and your stamina will deplete more quickly. The winds will also affect the trajectory of thrown items, like grenades, smoke, gas, and even jumping.
In addition to impacting your movement, the wind will kick up debris and dirt which will do more than slow you down. If you're out in the open, you'll run the risk of being struck by small items, degrading your shield and making you more visible to other Raiders with the glitches and sparks.
Visibility will also be reduced thanks to the darkened skies and lower clouds. You'll have to rely more on your sense of hearing as you won't be able to spot the ARC as easily. That said, the low visibility can be to your benefit. Being shieldless puts you at danger, obviously, but it also makes you harder to spot, giving you a possible advantage in PvP.
With these dangerous storms also comes opportunity for great rewards. There are "rumors" of valuable Raider Caches, relics of the First Wave, being unearthed by the hurricane winds. I assume playing in these conditions give you a chance of discovering these valuable Raider Caches and finding rare rewards.
The Hurricane map condition will be unleashed beginning February 24th. Looking at Embark's roadmap for early 2026, Arc Raiders will see another new map condition in March, along with a new ARC threat, player project, and scrappy update. In April, we're set to receive a brand new map, which is rumored to be beach-themed.