How to Play ARK: Survival Evolved with Friends on a Non-Dedicated PC Server
Playing ARK: Survival Evolved with friends can dramatically enhance the game’s already captivating survival experience. If you’re looking for a more intimate and contained experience with a small group, setting up a non-dedicated server is a fantastic option on PC. Essentially, you’ll be hosting the game from your own computer while playing simultaneously. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to play ARK with friends using a non-dedicated server:
Setting up a Non-Dedicated Server
Hosting the Session
To host a non-dedicated ARK server on your PC, follow these steps:
- Launch ARK: Survival Evolved: Start the game on your PC.
- Access the Host/Local Menu: On the main menu, click the “Host/Local” option.
- Configure Server Settings: This step is crucial. You’ll be presented with a plethora of settings that allow you to customize your gaming experience. Take your time to adjust options such as difficulty level, resource gathering rates, taming speeds, and many more. Consider what kind of gameplay you and your friends prefer, whether it’s a relaxed, casual experience or a more challenging survival scenario.
- Set Admin Password and Private Game Option: The next step is critical for a private server. Before clicking ‘Play Non-Dedicated Server’ at the bottom of this screen, you should see an option to set an “Admin Password“, do that first if you like to manage the server later with admin commands. Above this text input box, there will be a “Private Game” checkbox. Ensure that you check this box to keep random players from joining your session.
- Start the Server: Once you’re happy with your settings and have set the password and private option, click on the “Play Non-Dedicated Server” button located at the bottom of the screen. This launches the game with your custom settings and makes it accessible to your friends.
Joining a Non-Dedicated Server
For your friends to join your non-dedicated server, they will need to follow these instructions:
- Launch ARK: Survival Evolved: Make sure that each friend has their copy of ARK running on their PCs.
- Select Join ARK: From the main menu, they should click on the “Join ARK” option.
- Find Your Session: They will now be presented with a list of available ARK servers. Your server should be visible, and since it is private, they may need to search for it.
- Join the Game: Click on the session name and, if prompted, enter the Admin password you set earlier. Now all they have to do is click “Join.” It’s imperative that all players use the same version of the game as well as have the same mods enabled.
Important Considerations
- Distance Limitation: A significant drawback of non-dedicated servers is the distance limitation. Players cannot move too far away from the host, typically a maximum of around 200 meters. If they move beyond this radius, they will be teleported back to the host’s location. This limits exploration and activities, especially for larger groups.
- Host’s Performance: The performance of the non-dedicated server is directly tied to the host’s computer. If the host’s PC struggles, all players on the server will experience lag and potential connection issues. Make sure the host has a robust enough system to handle running the game and the server.
- Host’s Availability: The non-dedicated server is only active when the host is actively playing. Once the host leaves the game, the server shuts down and all other players are disconnected. This means all players will only be able to play when the host is available to keep the game running.
- Mods: If any mods are going to be used for the game, all players must have the exact same mods subscribed to from the workshop. Any incompatibility in mods will cause joining issues.
- Game Version: Ensure all players are using the same version of the game. An outdated game version can prevent players from joining.
- Private Game Setting: To avoid random players joining your server, always ensure the “Private Game” option is checked during server setup.
FAQs: Non-Dedicated Server in ARK: Survival Evolved
1. Can friends join a non-dedicated server in ARK?
Yes, friends can absolutely join a non-dedicated server in ARK. The host needs to start the server, and then friends can find and join the session through the “Join ARK” menu. However, remember to set the game to private to only allow your friends to play.
2. How do I invite friends to a non-dedicated ARK session?
You don’t directly invite friends within the game itself. You need to make sure your server is private so only your friends will join, have everyone subscribe to the same mods, then have your friends join via the server list after you start the game.
3. Why can’t my friend join my ARK server?
There could be several reasons. Make sure you are running the same game version, and that the host computer meets the minimum game performance requirements. Confirm that all players have the exact same mods installed, and also, that the host has not accidentally set up the server as a public game, instead of a private one. Finally, ensure you and your friends are running the most up to date version of the game.
4. How do non-dedicated servers work in ARK?
Non-dedicated servers are hosted directly by one player’s game. This allows players to play and host simultaneously. It’s a good option for a small group of friends playing together, but it has limitations, like player distance restrictions, as the host must be playing for the server to be active.
5. Is there a distance limit on a non-dedicated server in ARK?
Yes, there’s a strict distance limit on non-dedicated servers. Players cannot move more than approximately 200 meters away from the host.
6. How many people can play on a non-dedicated ARK server?
Non-dedicated servers on PC have a limit of four players, including the host.
7. Can friends join my single-player world in ARK?
Yes, friends can join your single-player world if you host it as a non-dedicated session. This allows a more intimate multiplayer experience with your single-player progress. However, the distance limitation still applies.
8. Can you transfer from a non-dedicated to a dedicated server in ARK?
Yes, it is possible to transfer your save from a non-dedicated server to a dedicated server if you can access both sets of save files. This allows for a progression to a server with more capabilities.
9. Are non-dedicated ARK servers free?
Yes, hosting a non-dedicated server is free because you are hosting it on your own computer using the base game. There are no extra costs involved, other than paying for the game.
10. How do I convert a single-player game to a non-dedicated server?
You do not need to convert anything. Just launch your game as a non-dedicated server. Your single-player save is used to create the non-dedicated server, with no special steps required.
11. Can I host a non-dedicated server and play with friends who are using different PC platforms (Steam/Epic)?
Yes, but it requires some extra steps, as you will need to enable crossplay in the server settings. If you wish to enable crossplay, be sure to do this when setting up the server.
12. Should I use a dedicated or non-dedicated server?
If you are planning to play with a small group of friends, a non-dedicated server can be suitable. However, if you require more players and don’t want distance limitations, a dedicated server is preferable.
13. Can I play ARK cross-platform with friends on non-dedicated servers?
Crossplay is only available between Windows and Xbox or between Android and IOS. Cross-platform play for non-dedicated servers on PC across different launchers (Steam and Epic) is possible but requires enabling crossplay in the server settings when first launched.
14. What are the benefits of a non-dedicated server?
The benefits of using a non-dedicated server are that it is free to host, easy to setup, and more flexible since you can game whenever you like.
15. How do I ensure my non-dedicated ARK server has the best performance?
Ensure the host has a good CPU, enough RAM, and a reliable internet connection. Also, avoid running too many other programs while hosting, which can cause lag and reduced performance. Experiment with lower graphics settings if needed.
By following these instructions and FAQs, you should be able to seamlessly play ARK: Survival Evolved with your friends on a non-dedicated server on PC, enjoying the thrill of survival together.