How to Invite Friends to a Non-Dedicated Ark Session: Your Ultimate Guide

So, you’re ready to brave the prehistoric wilds of Ark: Survival Evolved with your buddies, but don’t want the hassle (or cost!) of a dedicated server? You’ve come to the right place! Inviting friends to a non-dedicated Ark session is surprisingly straightforward, letting you jump into the action quickly. Here’s a breakdown of how to get your tribe together:

The process varies slightly depending on your platform:

• PC (Steam): The simplest method! After starting your non-dedicated session (Host/Local -> Host Non-Dedicated Multiplayer Session from the main menu), you can invite friends directly through Steam. Simply right-click their name in your Steam friends list and select “Invite to Game.” They will then receive an invitation to join your Ark world.

• Xbox: Navigate to the “Host Non-Dedicated Server” option. When the window pops up, set an Admin Password, then select the “Private Game” checkbox above. Click “Ok”, then invite your friends via the Xbox friends list.

• PlayStation: Similar to Xbox, you’ll host a non-dedicated server and make it a private game. Then invite your friends using the PlayStation network friend list.

• Nintendo Switch: With the Switch version, locally hosted non-dedicated sessions are possible. You’ll need to ensure your friends are on the same local network as you. Host the session as normal, and they should be able to find it in the server browser if you set the filter to local.

Understanding Non-Dedicated Servers

Before diving deeper, let’s clarify what a non-dedicated server actually is. In Ark, a non-dedicated server uses your computer (or console) as the host. This eliminates the need for separate server hardware, making it ideal for small groups of friends playing together. However, it comes with a few limitations:

• Tether Distance: Players are usually restricted by a “tether distance”, meaning they can’t wander too far from the host player. This prevents excessive strain on the host’s machine.
• Host Dependency: The game only runs when the host is online. If you log off, the world essentially pauses for your friends.
• Player Limit: Non-dedicated servers typically have a lower player limit than dedicated servers, usually around 4 players on consoles and slightly higher on PC with some configuration.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Even with the simple invitation process, you might encounter some hiccups. Here’s how to tackle common connection problems:

• Firewall: Ensure Ark: Survival Evolved is allowed through your firewall. Your friends should also check their firewalls.
• Game Version: Verify that everyone is running the same version of the game. Updates can cause compatibility issues.
• Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is crucial, especially for the host.
• Restart: Sometimes, simply restarting the game or your console/PC can resolve temporary glitches.
• Steam Issues (PC): If you’re using Steam, ensure Steam is online and functioning correctly.
• NAT Type: Having a restrictive NAT type on your router can cause connection problems. Look into port forwarding to improve connectivity (this is a more advanced solution).

Advanced Non-Dedicated Server Configuration

While non-dedicated servers are easy to set up, you can still tweak some settings to customize your experience:

• Admin Password: Set an admin password to access admin commands within the game. These commands allow you to control the game world, spawn items, and manage players.
• Difficulty: Adjust the game difficulty to tailor the challenge to your group’s skill level.
• Taming Speed & Resource Gathering: Speed up taming and resource gathering for a less grindy experience.
• Experience Multiplier: Increase the experience multiplier to level up faster.
• Engram Points: Modify the engram point distribution to unlock all the crafting recipes.

Hosting Beyond Non-Dedicated: Exploring Dedicated Servers

When you decide a non-dedicated server is not enough to host Ark: Survival Evolved for you and your friends, you might want to upgrade to a dedicated server. Dedicated servers give you the ultimate freedom and control. Your server can run 24/7, support a large number of players, and be hosted anywhere in the world. But this comes at a cost. You have to either run your own server on your own hardware (or someone else’s) which is not easy, or rent a server from a hosting provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the difference between a dedicated and non-dedicated server in Ark?

A dedicated server runs independently of a player’s game client, offering 24/7 availability and greater performance. A non-dedicated server uses the host player’s machine and only runs when the host is online, limited by tether distance and lower player capacity.

2. Can my friends play on my non-dedicated Ark server when I’m offline?

No. A non-dedicated server shuts down when the host player logs off. Your friends will only be able to play when you are actively running the game and hosting the session.

3. Is there a limit to how far my friends can travel from me on a non-dedicated server?

Yes, there’s a tether distance on non-dedicated servers. This limits how far your friends can move away from you, the host. The distance depends on the game version and configuration settings.

4. How many people can play on a non-dedicated Ark server?

The number of players varies depending on the platform. Consoles usually allow up to 4 players on a non-dedicated server. PC versions can accommodate more, depending on your hardware and settings.

5. Do I need a powerful computer to host a non-dedicated Ark server?

Yes, you need a reasonably powerful computer, especially if you plan on playing with multiple friends and using high graphics settings. The host’s machine handles both the game client and server processes.

6. Can I use mods on a non-dedicated Ark server?

Yes, you can use mods on a non-dedicated server, primarily on the PC version. Make sure everyone playing has the same mods installed. This can sometimes get tricky, and is another good reason to consider dedicated servers if mods are your thing.

7. How do I set an admin password on a non-dedicated Ark server?

When you host the session, a window will pop up asking you to set an Admin Password. Type in your desired password and remember it! This gives you access to admin commands in-game.

8. Can I make my non-dedicated Ark server private?

Yes, when hosting the session, check the “Private Game” box. This prevents random players from joining your server.

9. My friend can’t join my Ark server. What should we do?

First, check the basics: firewall settings, game version, and internet connection. Ensure everyone has the correct server information. Restarting the game or your console/PC often helps.

10. Is it free to host a non-dedicated Ark server?

Yes, hosting a non-dedicated server is free because you’re using your own hardware and internet connection. However, you’ll need to own a copy of Ark: Survival Evolved.

11. Can I host a non-dedicated server on Ark mobile?

Ark Mobile does not support non-dedicated server hosting in the same way as the PC and console versions. Multiplayer on mobile is primarily through official or unofficial hosted servers.

12. How do I invite someone on Playstation/XBox to a private Ark server?

Invite them through the Playstation Network or XBox Live functionality, after you have created your private server.

13. Is there an easier way to play Ark with friends?

Yes, there is! You can check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for insights into collaborative gameplay and building communities around games like Ark. You might find new ways to connect and enjoy the game even more.

14. Do non-dedicated servers offer cross-platform play?

No, non-dedicated servers typically do not support cross-platform play. Players need to be on the same platform (e.g., PC, Xbox, PlayStation) to join the same non-dedicated session.

15. What if I still have problems hosting or playing on a non-dedicated server?

The Ark: Survival Evolved community is very active. Search online forums and communities for potential solutions to your specific problem. There are thousands of discussions about ark and all the problems that can be solved by your friends online.

Hosting a non-dedicated Ark session is a fantastic way to enjoy the game with friends without the complexities of a dedicated server. By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be exploring, building, and taming dinosaurs together in no time!