How to Convert Your Single-Player Ark World to a Non-Dedicated Server
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Want to share your meticulously crafted single-player Ark: Survival Evolved world with friends? The good news is that it’s entirely possible to transform your solo adventure into a shared experience by converting it to a non-dedicated server. This process allows you to host a game where you and your friends can play together, all while retaining your progress and hard-earned resources. Here’s how to do it:
The core process revolves around utilizing the “Host/Local” option within the game. In essence, you’re not moving files around on your computer, but rather using the game’s built-in functionality to create a multiplayer session. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Launch Ark: Survival Evolved: Start the game through Steam (or your respective platform).
- Navigate to Host/Local: On the main menu, select the option labeled “Host/Local.”
- Choose Non-Dedicated Session: Instead of selecting “Play Single Player,” click the option for “Host Non-Dedicated Server.”
- Configure Server Settings: This is where you set the rules for your game. Here, you can adjust things like difficulty, tame settings, resource respawn rates, and whether friendly fire is enabled, among others. Take your time and customize the server settings to your liking. Be sure the settings match your single-player save or changes will take effect.
- Select Your Single Player Save: The game should automatically recognize your existing single-player save file. There’s no need to find specific files on your computer.
- Start the Server: Click the “Play Non-Dedicated” button to launch your server. This will start the game and allow your friends to connect to it.
- Invite Your Friends: Once the game is running, your friends will need to navigate to the main menu and select “Join Ark” then filter their session search by “Non-Dedicated” from the drop-down menu. They should see your server listed. If they don’t, make sure their filter is set correctly and that both of you are using the same version of the game.
It’s that simple! You don’t need to do any complicated file transfers. The game does it all for you. You’re now playing on a non-dedicated server where you and your friends can explore your single-player world together. Important note: the person hosting the session is tethered to their friends. That means they can’t go too far away from the host, or they will be teleported back to the host’s location.
Understanding the Difference Between Single-Player and Non-Dedicated
Before diving into the FAQs, let’s briefly clarify the differences. In single-player, you play alone, and your save data is purely local to your machine. When you switch to a non-dedicated server, your game essentially becomes a server that others can join, but with a crucial limitation – the server only exists when the host is playing. It also utilizes the host’s machine to run the game. This means it may use a lot of processing power and lag if the host machine isn’t powerful enough.
Key Benefits of Converting to a Non-Dedicated Server
Converting your single-player world into a non-dedicated server offers several benefits:
* Shared Experience: Play with friends, allowing you to tackle the challenges of Ark together.
* Retained Progress: Continue using your existing character, items, dinos, and structures.
* Easy Setup: The in-game method is user-friendly and doesn’t require technical expertise.
* Cost Effective: Avoid the cost of setting up and running a dedicated server.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some commonly asked questions related to converting single-player Ark worlds into non-dedicated servers:
Can I Transfer My Single-Player Character to a Dedicated Server?
Yes, you can transfer your character, items, and tames from your single-player world to a dedicated server. The process is more involved, requiring access to server files. You’ll need to locate your save file, transfer it to the dedicated server’s save directory, and adjust file names to match your Steam ID.
Can I Transfer Dinos from Single-Player to Multiplayer?
Absolutely! When you convert your single-player world to a non-dedicated server, all your dinos come along for the ride, as long as they are uploaded in an obelisk or supply drop and then downloaded into the new world. You must upload them, as dinos inside cryopods will be lost.
What Happens When I Host a Non-Dedicated Server?
When you host a non-dedicated server, your machine becomes the server for your friends to join. They connect to your game, and the server is only active while you are playing. Your game will utilize more processing power and may slow down the game experience, especially if your computer isn’t a powerful machine.
Do Non-Dedicated Servers Save Progress?
Yes, non-dedicated servers save all progress. The game saves when the host closes the game. All players that were logged in will be sent back to the menu when the host closes the game.
Can Friends Join My Single-Player Ark?
Technically, you’re not having friends join your single-player game; you’re creating a non-dedicated server using your existing world as the foundation. This gives you and your friends a shared multiplayer experience.
Can I Play Ark with Friends Without a Dedicated Server?
Yes, the non-dedicated server option is the perfect way to play Ark with friends without needing to rent or set up a separate dedicated server. It’s ideal for smaller groups.
What Are the Limitations of Non-Dedicated Servers?
The biggest limitation is the tethering distance. Players who join your non-dedicated server cannot move too far away from the host player. This restriction limits exploration and can be frustrating for some groups. The hosting player also has to be logged in for anyone else to play.
How Much Does it Cost to Run an Ark Server?
Running a non-dedicated server is free as it uses your local machine to run the game. However, dedicated server options are available, usually costing between $15-$30 per month, depending on your requirements and server provider. You will have the ability to set up your own server from scratch with a VPS for a price or utilize a server hosting service such as Scalacube or GTXGaming.
Can I Transfer Non-Dedicated Servers Between Computers?
Yes, you can. Moving your non-dedicated server to another computer requires accessing the server files (not done through the game) and transferring them to the new computer. You must then launch the server using the same method used in the first computer, but this isn’t recommended since you will lose a save point that you cannot go back to.
Are Ark Official Servers Shutting Down?
Yes, official Ark: Survival Evolved servers were shut down on September 30th, 2023 to make way for Ark: Survival Ascended. However, you can still play on unofficial servers or host your own server.
What is a Non-Dedicated Session in Ark?
A non-dedicated session is a game mode where one player hosts a game on their machine, and other players connect directly to them. It doesn’t require a separate server program.
Can My Friends Play on My Ark Server Without Me?
Not on a non-dedicated server. The host must be online and playing for others to connect. On the other hand, dedicated servers can run 24/7 without the owner needing to be logged in.
Is Ark Permanent?
Yes, if you own the game through a service such as Steam, you can keep it permanently. However, the official servers no longer exist.
Can I Buy My Own Server in Ark?
Yes, you can rent a dedicated server through various server hosting providers. You can also set up your own private dedicated server using a VPS (Virtual Private Server).
Can Two Players Mate in Ark?
Yes, two players can mate and have a temporary AI offspring, but the offspring will eventually form a tribe on its own.
Conclusion
Converting your single-player Ark world to a non-dedicated server is an excellent way to share your creations and adventures with friends. It’s a simple and convenient method that doesn’t require technical expertise and is a good option for smaller groups who want to play together locally without the cost of a dedicated server. By following these instructions and keeping the FAQs in mind, you’ll have a smoother, more enjoyable multiplayer Ark experience. Remember that the primary limitations are the tethering system and that the host must be logged in for anyone to play, so plan accordingly!