Are there different versions of Ark?

The answer to this question is yes, as there are several versions of the popular survival game, including ARK: Survival Evolved, ARK: Survival of the Fittest, ARK: Ultimate Survivor Edition, and ARK 2, each offering a unique gaming experience with distinct features and gameplay mechanics. The various editions and expansions, such as Scorched Earth, Aberration, and Genesis, provide players with a wide range of options to choose from, catering to different preferences and playstyles.

Overview of Ark Versions

The ARK franchise has expanded significantly since its initial release, with multiple versions and updates being introduced over the years. Understanding the differences between these versions is essential for players to make informed decisions about which one to play.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. What is the difference between ARK: Survival Evolved and ARK: Survival of the Fittest? ARK: Survival of the Fittest is a battle royale spin-off of ARK: Survival Evolved, played in rounds at a much faster pace, with the goal of becoming the last man standing.
2. Is Ark 2 the same as ARK 1? No, ARK 2 will feature substantial changes compared to its predecessor, although it was initially set to be similar to ARK 1 as a sandbox survival experience.
3. What is the most played ARK game? ARK: Survival Evolved is the most popular game in the franchise, offering a unique blend of survival, crafting, and dinosaur taming gameplay.

Editions and Expansions

4. What is the difference between ARK: Survival Evolved and ARK: Ultimate Survivor Edition? ARK: Ultimate Survivor Edition includes ARK: Survival Evolved along with expansion packs like Scorched Earth, Aberration, Extinction, and Genesis Parts 1 & 2, providing thousands of hours of gameplay.
5. Which is better, ARK: Survival Evolved or ARK: Ultimate Survivor Edition? ARK: Ultimate Survivor Edition is considered the definitive collection, including all ARK expansion packs and an overhauled core version of ARK: Survival Evolved.
6. What DLC should I buy for Ark? Aberration is often considered the best DLC, feeling completely different from other DLCs and offering a very fun experience.

Gameplay and Mechanics

7. What is the max survivor level in ARK? The maximum player level is 190, with levels gained through normal play, defeating end-game bosses, collecting Explorer Notes, and leveling up Chibi pets.
8. What is the most used Dino in ARK? The Rex is considered one of the best dinosaurs to tame in ARK: Survival Evolved, followed by other popular choices like the Griffin and Giganotosaurus.
9. Is Ark free? ARK: Survival Evolved was offered for free on the Epic Games Store for a limited time, and players who claimed it during this period can keep it forever.

Technical and Platform Questions

10. Does ARK run better on Xbox? ARK can run slightly better on an Xbox One S, while the Xbox One X provides a very good performance rivaling PC versions with Ultra settings.
11. Can I still play Ark 1? Yes, unofficial servers, single-player, and non-dedicated modes will remain playable even after the official servers are shut down.

Purchasing and Availability

12. Is Ark Ultimate worth it? ARK: Ultimate Survivor Edition is worth it, especially if purchased on sale, offering a very good, if not great, gaming experience, albeit with some mediocre aspects in certain ports.
13. Which ARK DLCs are free? Several DLCs, including ARK Fjordur, ARK Lost Island, ARK Ragnarok, and ARK Valguero, are available for free.
14. What is the best paid DLC in ARK? The best paid DLC is often subjective, but popular choices include Genesis Part II, Extinction, Aberration, Scorched Earth, and Valguero.

Future Developments and Server Status

15. Will Ark 1 be shut down when ARK 2 comes out? The original Survival Evolved servers will be switched off when ARK 2 or its equivalent is launched, but unofficial servers and other modes will remain available for players to continue enjoying ARK 1.