The end of the year in the Apex Games always signals the arrival of a major seasonal celebration, and this year is no exception. Respawn Entertainment has officially dropped the trailer and details for the “Merry Mayhem” Collection Event, set to bring festive chaos, limited-time challenges, and a brand-new competitive twist starting next week.

The event promises not just cosmetic appeal, but a significant shift in gameplay dynamics with the introduction of a high-variance mode designed to shake up player strategies.

Wild Card Mode: High Risk, High Reward

The centerpiece of the “Merry Mayhem” event is the new limited-time mode (LTM), “Wild Card.” This mode takes the standard Trios Battle Royale format and injects unpredictable, game-changing modifiers:

  • Randomized Rules: At the start of each round or zone closure, a random modifier is applied to the game. These modifiers are designed to force immediate adaptation—they might include enhanced healing rates, mandatory close-quarters weapons drops, or increased shield regeneration speed.
  • Emphasis on Adaptability: Wild Card actively punishes teams that stick to rigid, pre-planned strategies. Success relies entirely on a team’s ability to quickly pivot their Legend composition and tactics to capitalize on the active rule set.
  • Increased Reward: To match the high-stakes nature of the mode, the rewards for wins and high-kill games within Wild Card are significantly boosted, offering faster Battle Pass progression and event currency earnings.

This LTM is clearly designed for players looking for a dynamic, less predictable version of the classic battle royale formula.

Festive Map Overhauls and Loot

Alongside the new game mode, the existing maps will receive a seasonal aesthetic update:

  1. Map Decorations: Key Points of Interest (POIs) across both World’s Edge and Storm Point will receive a decorative overhaul, complete with festive lighting, snow effects, and unique audio cues, enhancing the holiday atmosphere.
  2. Loot Drops: Special Holiday Supply Drops will replace some standard loot bins. These drops are guaranteed to contain high-tier items, potentially including gold-level armor, fully kitted weapons, or rare event materials.
  3. New Legendary Cosmetics: The Collection Event is anchored by the usual set of 24 new cosmetic items. Leaks suggest a focus on heavy, snow-themed armor for legends like Newcastle and Caustic, and a unique new Heirloom item for an unannounced Legend.

The “Merry Mayhem” event is set to deliver two weeks of unpredictable gameplay and cosmetic rewards, providing a high-energy conclusion to the current season.