Gamesradar Arc Raiders Access Guide: Trial Times, Pendola Pass Squad Tricks, and Updates
By Sarah Jenkins
Q1: What are the exact start and end times for the Arc Raiders free weekend?
A1: The free trial launches on October 8, 2026, at 2:00 AM PT (5:00 AM ET) and runs continuously until October 12, 2026, at 1:00 AM PT (4:00 AM ET).
Q2: Does my character level and loot carry over if I buy the game later?
A2: Yes. All progression, weapon unlocks, Outpost base upgrades, and Reward Pass items earned during the free weekend are tied to your account and remain intact if you purchase the full game.
Q3: Can I matchmake on Pendola Pass as a solo player?
A3: Yes. Solo players can choose to matchmake into trios via squad autofill or drop into the map as a standalone operative, though facing The Frigate and enemy three-person teams solo requires extreme caution.
Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.
