Arc Raiders Goes Free for 4 Days: What It Means for Paying for Games

Arc Raiders, the extraction shooter from Embark Studios, will be free to play for four days to mark the launch of Frozen Trail, the game's largest update to date. That's according to Eurogamer. The studio spent recent days detailing the update, and has now announced the temporary free-to-play period.

What we know about the promotion

The free access will last four days. Exact dates and platforms aren't specified in the source — check the game's official channels for details. Frozen Trail is positioned as the biggest update in the project's history: Embark has been gradually sharing details about new content, but the full list of changes hasn't been revealed yet.

For those who haven't tried Arc Raiders, this is a chance to test the game without buying it. For existing players, it's a reason to return and check out the new content.

What it means for your wallet

Even a free period doesn't remove the question: how do you pay for a game or in-game purchases if you're in a country where local bank cards aren't accepted in foreign stores? Arc Raiders is distributed through digital platforms, and after the trial ends, you'll need to buy the game to continue.

Here are typical scenarios players face:

• Buying from a foreign store. Steam, Epic Games Store and console marketplaces accept Visa and Mastercard, but not all cards issued in your country go through. A virtual card from a foreign issuer solves this.
• In-game purchases. If the game requires topping up your balance for cosmetics or a battle pass, the card must support the store's currency (USD, EUR).
• Regional restrictions. Some platforms block purchases from certain countries — a card issued in a different jurisdiction helps here.

How to pay for a game with a virtual card: step by step

If you plan to buy Arc Raiders or make an in-game purchase after the free period, here's the basic workflow:

• Issue a virtual card in the right currency (USD or EUR, depending on the store).
• Top up with a buffer: the purchase amount plus 10–15% for conversion and platform fees.
• Link the card to your Steam, Epic Games Store or console account.
• Make the purchase. If the payment is declined, check: whether you have enough funds, whether the card's region matches your account's region, and whether 3-D Secure confirmation is required.

Typical declines happen due to a mismatch between the card's country and the account's country, insufficient balance, or a block from the store. In most cases, issuing a new card in the right region or contacting platform support helps.

Why this matters right now

Free periods aren't just marketing. They often trigger a spike in in-game purchases: players who try the game decide to stay and buy extra content. If you're among them, make sure your card is ready for payments in a foreign store in advance — so you don't waste time sorting out payment issues during the promotion.

What's next

Embark hasn't yet revealed whether Arc Raiders will become permanently free or if this is a one-off promotion. Keep an eye on the studio's official announcements. If you decide to buy the game after the trial, check the current pricing and payment methods on the store's website.

FAQ

Do I need a card for the free period?

Usually not — a store account is enough for free-to-play access. You'll need a card if you decide to buy the game or make an in-game purchase.

Which card works for buying from a foreign store?

A virtual Visa or Mastercard issued in a supported region. The card's currency should match the store's currency or allow conversion.

What if the payment is declined?

Check your balance, the card's and account's region, and whether 3-D Secure is required. If the problem persists, contact the store's support or issue a new card.

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