Can You Host a Cross-Platform Ark Server? A Comprehensive Guide
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The question of whether you can host a cross-platform Ark: Survival Evolved server is a common one among players eager to unite with friends across different gaming ecosystems. The short answer is: yes, but with significant limitations. While full cross-platform play across all systems isn’t universally supported, there are specific scenarios where you can achieve cross-platform connectivity. This guide will explore the possibilities and restrictions of hosting a cross-platform Ark server, providing you with the knowledge needed to navigate this complex landscape.
Understanding the Cross-Platform Limitations of Ark
The primary hurdle with cross-platform play in Ark stems from the different versions of the game available and the platforms they’re tied to. Here’s the breakdown:
- Microsoft Ecosystem (Xbox & Windows 10/Microsoft Store): These platforms can readily play together. If you own the Windows 10 version (often referred to as the Microsoft Store version), you can join games hosted from an Xbox and vice-versa. This is largely due to their shared Microsoft backend.
- Steam (PC): The Steam version of Ark is largely isolated from the Microsoft ecosystem and other console platforms. Players using the Steam version can generally only play with others using Steam.
- Epic Games (PC): The Epic Games version of Ark can sometimes be paired with the Steam version but comes with several limitations, usually with non-modded servers and dedicated servers only.
- PlayStation (PS4/PS5): Ark on PlayStation is completely separate and cannot cross-play with any other system, including PC or Xbox.
- Nintendo Switch: Similarly, the Nintendo Switch version is a standalone experience that does not support cross-platform play with any other system.
- Mobile (Android/iOS): Mobile versions of Ark are isolated and only compatible with other mobile platforms.
The core takeaway is that cross-platform play in Ark is primarily confined to the Microsoft ecosystem (Xbox and Windows 10), and sometimes Steam and Epic Games. Connecting players across these isolated ecosystems requires careful consideration and, often, third-party solutions.
Hosting Scenarios and How They Work
Now let’s look at the different scenarios you might encounter when trying to host a cross-platform server.
Hosting within the Microsoft Ecosystem (Xbox & Windows 10)
This is the most straightforward scenario. If your goal is to have Xbox and Windows 10 players join the same server, you have several options:
- Hosting from a Windows 10 PC: If you have the Microsoft Store version of Ark, you can host a server from your PC, which players on both Xbox and Windows 10 can join. This allows for players in the same house or on different networks to all play together on a privately hosted server.
- Hosting from an Xbox: It is possible to host a game from an Xbox console, which can then be joined by players from Windows 10 on the Microsoft Store version.
Hosting with Steam and Epic Games
Here the complexities arise:
- Steam and Epic Games Compatibility: While theoretically possible to have Steam and Epic Games players together, this is typically achieved on dedicated servers and does not support mods.
- Dedicated Servers: A dedicated server on a third party host is typically required to enable Steam and Epic cross-play. This often comes with added cost but is required to bypass cross-platform restrictions.
PlayStation and Crossplay
- No Crossplay with PS4/PS5: Ark on PlayStation cannot connect to servers hosted on any other platform, including PC or Xbox. If you want a dedicated server for PS4, you typically have to pay a third-party to host the server.
Understanding Dedicated vs. Non-Dedicated Servers
Before you dive deeper into hosting, let’s quickly review the two primary server types:
- Non-Dedicated Servers: These servers are hosted directly from your own gaming machine. They’re cost-effective, as they utilize your existing resources, but are limited to a small number of players and tethered to the host’s location. The primary drawback is the tether distance between the host and the players, requiring them to stay close. This option does not typically support cross platform play.
- Dedicated Servers: These servers are hosted on a separate machine (either a rented server or a dedicated computer) and are designed for larger groups, offering more stability and control. They can be used to host cross-platform servers, but you will often require specific versions from specific stores.
Key Considerations
- Server Software Version: Ensure that the server software you are using is the correct version for the platforms you wish to allow access. For cross-play with Microsoft and Xbox you’ll need to ensure that the Windows 10 edition from the Microsoft Store is utilized.
- Mods: Mods from Steam are not compatible with Xbox or the Microsoft Store. If you wish to have cross-platform play between those platforms, you can’t run any mods.
- Server Providers: Third-party server providers offer dedicated hosting services that often include tools for cross-platform setup. Consider reputable providers like GPORTAL and Scalacube to access user friendly control panels and reliable server performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify this topic, here are 15 frequently asked questions about hosting a cross-platform Ark server:
1. Can Steam and Xbox players play Ark together?
No, generally, Steam and Xbox players cannot directly play Ark together. The Xbox version is the Microsoft Store version, and these two are compatible with each other, while Steam players are on their own separate servers.
2. Can PS4/PS5 players join a PC Ark server?
No, PS4/PS5 players cannot join any PC Ark servers, including those hosted on Steam or the Microsoft Store. They are completely separate ecosystems.
3. Can I host an Ark server on my PC and play with Xbox friends?
Yes, if you own the Microsoft Store version of Ark on your PC, you can host a server that your Xbox friends can join.
4. Does it cost money to run a dedicated Ark server?
Yes, running a dedicated Ark server typically involves monthly fees to a hosting provider. The cost varies depending on the provider, server specifications, and player capacity, but can be within the range of $15 to $30 per month, sometimes more.
5. Is there a free way to host an Ark server?
Non-dedicated servers are technically free, as they run on your own PC, but are limited in functionality. There are free server hosting trials from some third-party companies, but free hosting options are limited in performance and available resources.
6. What is the best way to set up an Ark cross-platform server?
The easiest way to set up a cross-platform server is through a third-party dedicated server provider that supports cross-platform play between Xbox and the Microsoft Store version on PC. It’s also possible to have Steam and Epic users together on dedicated servers, but they are limited.
7. Can I use mods on a cross-platform Ark server?
Mods are generally not supported on cross-platform servers between Xbox and PC using the Microsoft Store version. They can be done on a separate PC dedicated server.
8. What are the benefits of dedicated vs. non-dedicated servers?
Dedicated servers offer better performance, stability, more player capacity, and are not tied to the host’s location, while non-dedicated servers are cheaper to run but limited. The main benefit is that dedicated servers can typically be used with multiple platforms, while non-dedicated servers can’t.
9. How much space does an Ark server need?
An Ark server requires at least 20 GB of disk space, but it is recommended to have between 25 and 50 GB for optimal performance.
10. How do I enable crossplay on a GPORTAL server?
To enable crossplay on a GPORTAL server, log in to your account, select the desired server, go to “Basic settings”, and choose between Steam, Steam+Epic, or just Epic. Then, restart the server.
11. Can I play Ark cross-platform on a private server?
Yes, if you use the Microsoft Store version on PC and host a dedicated server, you can play cross-platform with Xbox users.
12. Is Ark cross-platform between all PC versions?
No, crossplay between Steam and the Microsoft Store version is not possible. Steam players generally can only play with other Steam players. Similarly, Epic players can generally only play with other Epic players, unless on a dedicated server.
13. What are the limitations of non-dedicated Ark servers?
Non-dedicated servers are limited to a small player count and have tethering restrictions, meaning players must stay close to the host. They also don’t support cross-platform play.
14. Do I need SteamCMD to host an Ark server?
SteamCMD is required to set up a dedicated server via the Steam version of the game. However, if you are using the Microsoft Store version and hosting a game, you don’t need SteamCMD.
15. What are some popular Ark maps for dedicated servers?
Some of the most popular Ark maps for dedicated servers include Lost Island, Ragnarok, Fjordur, and The Island.
Conclusion
While cross-platform play in Ark: Survival Evolved can be complicated, it’s certainly achievable with the right approach and the right version of the game. By focusing on the compatible platforms, understanding the types of servers, and leveraging third-party hosting when necessary, you can bring your gaming community together no matter their preferred system. Understanding these limitations before deciding on hosting solutions will save you time and money.