Full Breakdown
Arc Raiders' Riven Tides Update Brings New Content but Breaks Crossplay
4/29/2026, 12:46:51 PM
Riven Tides Update Disables Crossplay Across Platforms
On April 28, 2026 Embark Studios released version 1.26.0 of *Arc Raiders*, titled “Riven Tides.” The patch introduced a new coastal map but also disabled the game’s cross-play functionality. In the updated options menu the cross-play toggle is turned off and cannot be re-enabled, restricting PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC players to matches with users on the same platform.
New Content and Gameplay Changes
The update adds a new coastal “Riven Tides” map that expands the Rust Belt with the Panorama Azzurro Resort and Dockyard, and a “Beachcombing” condition using the Dockmaster’s Detector to reveal buried loot. A new flying enemy, the ARC Turbine, appears. The Expedition Window is lengthened from six to thirteen days, and skill points now require dealing damage instead of collecting stash value. PS5 Pro users gain PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) for 4K 60 FPS. A limited-time “Last Resort” event (April 28-May 25) offers Raider Tokens and gear, while the “Avian Alarm” project adds a bird-cage security system. The “Last Call” feature permits late Expedition entry without rewards.
Official Statements & Responses
Embark Studios addressed the cross-play issue via community lead Dusty Gustafsson on Discord, confirming an investigation and a temporary fix that requires restoring settings to default. She advised players who prefer not to reset to await a permanent solution, noting the team is actively developing a fix. Design director Virgil Watkins indicated major upcoming changes to the skill tree. Embark Studios has not announced a timeline for restoring cross-play.
Community Reaction and Criticism
Players reported loss of cross-platform matchmaking, noting the update isolated them from friends on other consoles. Some community members criticized the six-day Expedition Window as too short for the new Damage Challenge quest, leading to its extension to thirteen days. The settings reset was deemed inconvenient, prompting many to await a permanent patch.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re currently investigating an issue with Crossplay following today’s update,” — Dusty Gustafsson, Community Lead, Embark Studios
- “You can give this a temporary fix by fully restoring your settings to default,” — Dusty Gustafsson
- “If you do not want to do that, just hold off and wait for a fix. We’re working away on a better solution.” — Dusty Gustafsson
- “The new Expedition window will open on April 28, giving Raiders 13 days to sign up and complete the requirements before the May 11 deadline.” — Embark Studios announcement
What’s Next: Events and Future Updates
The “Last Resort” event runs until May 25, and the “Last Call” feature permits late Expedition entry without rewards. Embark Studios plans skill-tree revisions and further content updates in 2026, though exact dates are undisclosed.
