THE FINALS: Kicking Off 2026 with Snowball Blitz and Ruby Rewards
The competitive arena of THE FINALS continues to thrive as we step into 2026, with the current average player count holding strong at 8,395. The developers at Embark Games have been busy delivering fresh content and exciting updates to keep Contestants engaged and striving for greatness. The recent updates, 9.2.0 and 9.3.0, have introduced festive Limited Time Modes, new seasonal store items, and a prestigious new rewards tier that promises to raise the stakes for the top players. Let’s dive into what’s new and what players can expect in the coming weeks in THE FINALS.
Update 9.2.0: A Festive Blast with Snowball Blitz
Released during the holiday season, Update 9.2.0 brought a fresh breath of winter air to the arena with the return of Snowball Blitz, a Limited Time Mode (LTM) that perfectly captures the holiday spirit. Set in a snow-covered Monaco, this 5v5 snowball fight pits teams against each other in a fast-paced, frosty brawl. Unlike traditional game modes, every player loads in armed exclusively with snowballs, turning the battlefield into a winter wonderland of chaos and fun.
The objective is simple yet thrilling: the first team to reach 3,000 points wins the match. This scoring system encourages aggressive play and teamwork, as players must coordinate to outscore their opponents in a flurry of snowball throws. Snowball Blitz is a refreshing change of pace from the usual gunfights and tactical engagements, offering a lighthearted but competitive experience that perfectly complements the holiday season.
Alongside the new LTM, the 9.2.0 update also introduced the Countdown Crew store update, featuring stylish new outfits and gear to help players ring in the New Year in style. Whether you want to deck yourself out for the party or just grab some festive flair, the store’s winter-themed cosmetics add an extra layer of fun and personalization to the game.
Update 9.3.0: Welcoming 2026 with Ruby Rewards and Extended Snowball Blitz
As the calendar flipped to 2026, Update 9.3.0 arrived with a warm greeting and a promise of exciting content to come. While the update itself was relatively light, it extended the availability of Snowball Blitz for one more week, allowing players to continue enjoying the frosty festivities and rack up eliminations in the snowy arena. The developers encouraged Contestants to keep the holiday spirit alive with the phrase “god fortsättning,” a Swedish expression wishing a good continuation of the holiday season.
The centerpiece of Update 9.3.0, however, is the introduction of the Ruby Rewards Season 9. This new tier of ranked rewards is designed to honor the absolute best players in THE FINALS. Unlike previous ranked rewards that players could earn and keep for the season, Ruby Rewards are exclusive to the top 500 players and come with a unique twist: you must fight to maintain your position until the very end. Only those who hold a podium spot on the final day of the season will receive the prestigious Ruby rewards, making this a true test of skill, consistency, and endurance.
The rewards for reaching Ruby status are as impressive as they are exclusive. Players who secure a top 500 finish will receive:
- Ruby Player Card Background
- Ruby Emblem
- Ruby Badge
- Ruby Charm
- Ruby Sticker
- Ruby Coin – the most coveted item, which can be exchanged for a ruby skin of the weapon of your choice
This new system not only rewards skill but also adds a dynamic competitive edge to the ranked ladder. Contestants must continuously prove their dominance to keep their Ruby status, making every match in Season 9 a high-stakes battle for bragging rights and exclusive cosmetics.
Community and Competitive Impact
The introduction of Ruby Rewards is a significant moment for THE FINALS’ competitive scene. By limiting these rewards to the top 500 players and requiring them to maintain their ranking until the season’s conclusion, Embark Games is fostering a more intense and engaging ranked environment. This change will likely encourage more strategic gameplay, team coordination, and dedication among players aiming to reach and hold the coveted Ruby tier.
Meanwhile, the continued popularity of Snowball Blitz demonstrates the developers’ commitment to providing seasonal content that keeps the game fresh and enjoyable for all types of players. The mode’s return and extension into 2026 have been met with enthusiasm, as it offers a fun, casual alternative to the more serious competitive modes. The winter-themed cosmetics and store updates further enhance the festive atmosphere, making the arena feel alive and vibrant during the holiday season.
Looking Ahead
With Update 9.3.0 setting the stage for a competitive new year and promising a “slightly larger update” on the horizon, Contestants have plenty to look forward to. The combination of intense ranked competition through Ruby Rewards and the lighthearted fun of Snowball Blitz creates a balanced experience that caters to both hardcore and casual players.
Players eager to track their progress and see who’s dominating the leaderboards can visit the official Season 9 rankings on the game’s website: https://id.embark.games/the-finals/leaderboards/s9. With the stakes higher than ever, every match counts as Contestants fight to earn their place among the elite.
Final Thoughts
THE FINALS continues to build momentum as it enters 2026, offering a blend of competitive challenge and festive fun. Whether you’re aiming for the top 500 to claim those exclusive Ruby Rewards or just enjoying a snowy skirmish in Snowball Blitz, there’s something for every type of player. With a strong player base and ongoing developer support, THE FINALS is poised to remain a thrilling and dynamic arena for months to come.
So suit up, Contestants, and get ready to make this year your best yet in THE FINALS. God fortsättning and good luck in the arena!