"A slap on the wrist": Arc Raiders’ new ban system sparks fierce criticism

The Headwinds update is one of four planned content drops for ARC Raiders scheduled through April 2026. It adds seven new quests, two augments, expanded lore, minor gameplay tweaks and new conditions on the “Buried City” map, which is now inhabited by flocks of birds. Alongside the new content, the patch also implements changes to the game’s anti-cheat system – an addition that has been met with mostly negative feedback from the community.

Specifically, the update introduces a new progressive ban system with three escalating stages. While Embark does not provide concrete examples of punishable offenses in the patch notes, the system is likely aimed at serious violations such as cheating or exploiting. First-time offenders now receive a 30-day ban, which increases to 60 days for a second infraction. A permanent ban is only issued after a third violation of the game’s fair play rules.

The ARC Raiders community has reacted negatively to the new ban system. On Reddit, many players argue that the penalties are far too lenient, describing them as little more than a “slap on the wrist.” There is widespread support for harsher measures, including calls for permanent bans for first-time cheaters, often citing stricter titles such as Escape from Tarkov as examples. While a small number of users defend Embark’s approach, pointing to the risk of false bans, overall sentiment leans strongly toward stricter enforcement. So far, Embark has not issued an official response, leaving it unclear whether further adjustments are planned.