A recent patch from Embark Studios has addressed a persistent accessibility problem for Arc Raiders players, particularly those in GMT time zones, who struggled to engage with the highly anticipated Bird City event. The update not only restores the event but also increases its frequency, ensuring a broader distribution of playtime across global regions.
The Bird City event, introduced in the Headwinds update, transforms Buried City into a bird-infested hub with enhanced loot opportunities on rooftops, including rare rubber ducks. However, its original schedule—confined to early mornings or late nights—made it nearly impossible for players with standard working hours to participate. Feedback from the community highlighted the frustration, with many noting the event’s impractical timing for those outside of Pacific or Asian time zones.
Following a brief but widespread disruption where all map events vanished from the rotation, Embark’s team intervened. The developer confirmed the issue stemmed from a scheduling error in the map conditions system. Rather than simply fixing the glitch, the update also adjusted Bird City’s frequency, allowing it to appear more often in the rotation. While the event still aligns with GMT working hours, the revised schedule now offers additional windows for players to access it, including potential evening availability.
The fix required no additional download—players only needed to restart the game to apply the changes. Embark’s community manager, Ossen, emphasized that the team remains committed to refining the schedule to accommodate all time zones, acknowledging that the current adjustments are a step toward broader inclusivity.
For administrators and server operators managing Arc Raiders instances, the update introduces minimal overhead. The changes are client-side, eliminating the need for backend modifications. However, moderators should monitor player feedback regarding event accessibility, as further tweaks may be necessary to address regional disparities.
Key takeaways for players
- All map events, including Bird City, have been restored and are now active in the rotation.
- Bird City’s frequency has increased, providing more opportunities for engagement across time zones.
- No download is required—restart the game to apply the update.
- Embark is actively working to refine the schedule to ensure global accessibility.
The update underscores Embark’s responsiveness to community concerns, particularly around accessibility. While the Bird City event remains a highlight of the Headwinds expansion, its success hinges on ensuring that players worldwide can participate without undue restrictions.
