Embark Studios is shaking up the core progression loop of its extraction shooter, ARC Raiders, with a significant mechanical change arriving in the upcoming third Expedition. While the title has carved out a niche by offering players a choice in how they handle seasonal wipes, the latest update removes a key incentive for those looking to fast-track their character’s power. Specifically, the studio has confirmed that players will no longer be able to exchange accumulated stash value and coins for skill points during the reset process.
This shift marks a departure from the previous two Expeditions, where the exchange served as a vital bridge for veterans wanting to regain their competitive edge quickly. Under the new rules, the seasonal reset will still offer traditional rewards—including expanded stash space, exclusive cosmetics, and various character buffs—but the direct path to skill point acquisition through wealth accumulation has been severed. This move appears aimed at leveling the playing field and ensuring that skill progression remains tied to active gameplay rather than hoardable currency.
The third Expedition window is scheduled to open on Tuesday, April 28, coinciding with the launch of the Riven Tides update. This rollout represents the final major milestone in the ARC Raiders 2026 roadmap, following a rapid-fire release schedule that saw three significant content drops between January and March. By tightening the economy now, Embark seems to be preparing the player base for a more regulated endgame experience as the current development cycle reaches its peak.
While the full patch notes for Riven Tides remain under wraps, Embark has confirmed that the free update will introduce a brand-new map and a massive new ARC enemy. Early indications suggest this foe will be a heavyweight encounter on par with the Queen and Matriarch. Between the removal of the skill point exchange and the introduction of new environmental threats, ARC Raiders players are looking at a much more demanding trek through the wasteland when the new window opens later this month.
