Does ARK: Extinction Cost Money? A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, ARK: Extinction does cost money. It is not a free addition to the base game, ARK: Survival Evolved. While there are free maps and content available for ARK, Extinction is a paid expansion pack that needs to be purchased separately if you do not already have it included as part of a Season Pass or special edition of the game. Let’s dive into the details surrounding ARK: Extinction and its cost.
Understanding ARK: Extinction’s Pricing
Standalone Purchase
The primary way to acquire ARK: Extinction is through a standalone purchase. It is typically priced around $19.99, though this can fluctuate slightly based on platform and sales. This purchase grants you access to the Extinction map, the unique creatures it contains, and the new gameplay mechanics associated with the expansion.
Inclusion in Bundles and Season Passes
Alternatively, ARK: Extinction has historically been included in ARK Season Passes or special edition bundles like the Explorer’s Edition. If you have previously purchased one of these, you may already own Extinction. It’s crucial to check your game library or receipt to confirm if Extinction is part of your content.
Platforms and Availability
The purchase requirement for ARK: Extinction applies across all platforms including PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. There is no free path to accessing this specific expansion unless it’s part of a bundled offering. Remember that online multiplayer on consoles often requires an active subscription, such as Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core in addition to the game purchase.
Prerequisites
Regardless of how you obtain it, playing ARK: Extinction requires owning the base game, ARK: Survival Evolved, which is sold separately. The expansion is an add-on and not a standalone title.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ARK: Extinction
Is ARK: Extinction a DLC?
Yes, ARK: Extinction is a DLC (Downloadable Content) for ARK: Survival Evolved. It is an expansion pack that adds new content to the game.
Can I Play ARK: Extinction Without Buying It?
No, you cannot play ARK: Extinction without purchasing it or obtaining it through a bundle or Season Pass. It is not a free addition to the base game.
What is Included in the ARK Season Pass?
The ARK Season Pass typically includes the Scorched Earth, Aberration, and Extinction expansion packs. This package offers access to these expansions as they were released, for a discounted price compared to buying them separately.
What Are the Minimum System Requirements for ARK: Extinction?
The minimum system requirements are as follows:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better.
- RAM: 8 GB.
- Video Card: NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB or better.
- OS: Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions).
What is the Story Behind ARK: Extinction?
Extinction brings players to a ruined future Earth. The map focuses on the lore of ARK, placing players in Sanctuary, a futuristic city where they will encounter titanic monsters and uncover secrets.
Do I Need All ARK DLCs to Play?
No, you do not need all ARK DLCs to play the base game or any single expansion. While certain DLCs can enhance your experience, each one can be purchased separately and enjoyed on its own.
Can I Interact With DLC Creatures If I Don’t Own the DLC?
Yes, all DLC creatures are part of the core game files, enabling players who do not own the DLCs to still interact with creatures from those expansions.
Are There Wyverns in Extinction?
Yes, Forest Wyverns spawn in the Crater Forest area of the Extinction map. They will only attack if provoked.
Can I Hatch an Alpha Wyvern Egg?
Alpha Wyverns cannot breed, but you can hatch their eggs like normal Wyvern eggs. You’ll need a specific Alpha Wyvern saddle to ride them.
Are There Reapers in ARK: Extinction?
Yes, Extinction introduces Reapers to the game, without requiring you to play the Aberration map first.
Are There Any Free Maps in ARK?
Yes, there are several free maps available for ARK, including: Fjordur, Lost Island, Ragnarok, Valguero, Crystal Isles, and The Center. These maps add new experiences to the game without additional costs.
Which Maps Are Part of the ARK Season Pass?
The Season Pass includes Scorched Earth, Aberration, and Extinction.
What is Considered the Best ARK Map?
While personal preference is a major factor, many players consider Lost Island as one of the best due to its variety and rich content. Other popular maps include Ragnarok and Fjordur.
What is the Hardest ARK Map?
Scorched Earth is often regarded as one of the hardest maps due to its extreme weather conditions, limited resources, and lack of base locations.
How Do I Install ARK: Extinction on a Server?
To install Extinction on your server, you will generally need to:
- Log into your server control panel.
- Run a Steam update to download the 20GB DLC.
- Go to the configuration files and choose Easy Configurator to activate it.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, ARK: Extinction is not free and must be purchased separately or obtained via a bundled purchase. It is a significant addition to the ARK: Survival Evolved experience, offering a compelling storyline, unique creatures, and new challenges. If you’re a dedicated ARK player looking to explore the conclusion of the main storyline, Extinction is well worth the investment, especially if you can get it as part of a Season Pass. By understanding its pricing structure, requirements, and gameplay additions, you’ll be fully prepared to delve into the ruined future of ARK: Extinction.