Transferring Your Single Player ARK World to Your Server: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’ve conquered the wilderness of ARK: Survival Evolved in single player and now you’re ready to share your hard work with friends (or maybe even the world!) by transferring your save to a dedicated server. The process might seem daunting, but fear not, Survivor! This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a smooth transition for your world, characters, and tamed dinos.
The short answer is that you will need to locate your single-player save files, configure your server to match your single-player settings (including mods and map), and then upload the save files to your server’s designated directory. Let’s dive into the details.
Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring Your Single Player World
Here’s a breakdown of the process, covering everything you need to know:
1. Locate Your Single Player Save Files
This is the crucial first step. Your single player save data is stored locally on your computer. Here’s how to find it:
- Open File Explorer: On Windows, press the Windows key + E.
- Navigate to the ARK Directory: The default location is typically:
steamappscommonARKShooterGameSavedSavedArksLocal. - Identify Key Files: Inside this folder, you’ll find the following files, which are critical for the transfer:
<MapName>.ark: This is the main world save file. For example, if you were playing on The Island, the file would beTheIsland.ark.<MapName>_NewSaveDir_Backup.ark: This is a backup save file. Consider backing this up before proceeding.LocalPlayer.arkprofile: This file contains your character’s data.TribeData.ark: This file contains tribe data if you are in a tribe. This only matters if you have previously enabled shared ownership.- Any
.arktribefiles: These files contain additional tribe information. These only matter if you have previously enabled shared ownership.
2. Setting Up Your Dedicated Server
Before transferring your files, your dedicated server needs to be properly configured. This involves several key aspects:
- Map Selection: Ensure your server is set to run the same map you were using in single player (e.g., The Island, Scorched Earth, Aberration, etc.). This setting is usually found in your server’s configuration file (often
GameUserSettings.ini). - Mod List Parity: This is critical. Your server must have the exact same mods installed and in the same order as your single player game. Mismatched mods will cause serious issues, including world corruption. You can view your mod list in the Steam launcher by right-clicking on ARK: Survival Evolved, selecting “Properties”, and then going to the “DLC” tab. Note down the mod IDs.
- Game Settings: Make sure your server settings (difficulty, harvest amounts, taming speed, etc.) are as close as possible to your single player settings. Large discrepancies can impact gameplay significantly. These settings are also usually configured in the
GameUserSettings.inifile. - Server Password (Optional): If you want a private server, set a password.
3. Accessing Your Server Files
You’ll need a way to access your server’s files. This typically involves one of the following methods:
- FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Most server hosting providers offer FTP access. You’ll need an FTP client (like FileZilla) to connect to your server using the provided credentials (hostname, username, password, and port).
- Control Panel: Some hosting providers have a web-based control panel that allows you to manage your server files directly.
- RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol): If you’re running a server on your own machine or a VPS (Virtual Private Server), you can use RDP to remotely access the server’s desktop and manage files directly.
4. Uploading the Save Files
Once you have access to your server files, navigate to the following directory: ARKShooterGameSaved. This directory is usually located within the main directory of your server install.
- Upload the
.arkfile: Upload your<MapName>.arkfile (the main world save) to this folder. - Upload
LocalPlayer.arkprofile: Upload this to the “Saved” folder. - Upload
TribeData.arkand.arktribefiles (if applicable): If you have tribe data, upload these files to theSavedfolder as well. - Overwrite Existing Files (If Necessary): Your server may already have a save file. If so, you’ll likely need to overwrite it with your single player save. Be sure to back up the existing server save before doing this!
5. Restart Your Server
After uploading the files, restart your ARK server. This will allow the server to load your transferred world.
6. Rename Player Profile
Upon your first login, you will need to rename your player profile. Go into the Saved -> SavedArks folder and rename “LocalPlayer.arkprofile” to YourSteamID.arkprofile. You should then be able to play your old single player toon on the server.
7. Verify the Transfer
Once the server is back online, connect to it in ARK. Check to see if your base, dinos, and character are all present and accounted for. If everything looks good, congratulations! You’ve successfully transferred your single player world.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Server Not Starting: If your server fails to start after the transfer, double-check your mod list and game settings. Incompatibilities are often the cause.
- Missing Dinos or Structures: Make sure you uploaded all the necessary save files (especially the
.arkfile). - Character Data Loss: Ensure you uploaded the
LocalPlayer.arkprofileand renamed the file to your steam ID. - World Corruption: This is rare, but can happen if the transfer is interrupted or if there are serious mod conflicts. Always back up your saves regularly!
FAQs: Transferring Your Single Player ARK World
1. Can I transfer my single player world to a non-dedicated server?
Yes! In fact, you don’t even need to transfer files. Non-dedicated servers use the same save files as single player. Just launch the game and select “Host Non-Dedicated Server”. However, remember that the host’s PC performance impacts all players on a non-dedicated server, and there’s a tethering distance.
2. Can I transfer items from single player to a multiplayer ARK server?
Technically yes, using the method described above. However, be mindful of the server’s rules. Some servers might frown upon or even prohibit importing fully established characters and bases from single player.
3. How do I find my Steam ID?
Your Steam ID is a unique identifier for your Steam account. You can find it through your Steam profile URL (usually a string of numbers).
4. What’s the difference between a dedicated and non-dedicated server?
A dedicated server is a separate machine or program exclusively dedicated to hosting the game. It runs 24/7 and offers better performance for multiple players. A non-dedicated server uses the host’s machine as both the server and the client, limiting performance and imposing a tethering distance.
5. How much does it cost to run an ARK server?
The cost of renting an ARK server varies depending on the provider and the server’s specifications (RAM, CPU, storage, player slots). Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50+ per month. Creating your own dedicated server on your own hardware incurs electricity and internet costs.
6. Can I transfer dinos between single player maps?
Yes, you can use Obelisks or Supply Crates in single player to upload dinos to the ARK Data, and then download them on a different map within your single player game. You can transfer to the single player version of all maps after unlocking the appropriate engrams.
7. What is the best ARK map for transferring my single player save?
The “best” map is subjective and depends on your preferences. Lost Island, Ragnarok, and Fjordur are popular choices due to their diverse biomes and resources. The Island is the original map and a solid starting point.
8. Can I transfer Cryopods with dinos inside?
Yes, you can transfer Cryopods containing dinos. However, be aware that transferring the Cryopod to another server resets the timer for any experience the dino gained while inside the cryopod. This means you will need to unpod the creature for it to obtain the experience points before transferring it to another server.
9. How do I enable transfers in ARK?
Transfers are enabled by default on most servers. If you’re hosting your own server, you can control transfer settings in the GameUserSettings.ini file.
10. What cannot be transferred between servers in ARK?
Certain creatures, like the Chalk Golem, Polar Bear (Valguero specific), and Fenrir (unless in a Cryopod), cannot be properly transferred. Some servers may also restrict the transfer of certain items or dinos to prevent exploits.
11. What happens when you host a non-dedicated server in ARK?
When you host a non-dedicated server, your computer acts as both the server and the game client. This limits the number of players, imposes a tethering distance, and can impact performance.
12. Should I run a dedicated or non-dedicated ARK server?
Choose a non-dedicated server for small groups of local friends. Opt for a dedicated server for larger communities or if you want a 24/7 server with better performance and no tethering distance.
13. Do you have to pay for a dedicated ARK server?
You can rent a dedicated ARK server from a hosting provider, which involves a monthly fee. Alternatively, you can host your own dedicated server on your own hardware, incurring electricity and internet costs.
14. Can you play on your own dedicated server in ARK?
Yes! Once your dedicated server is set up, you can connect to it just like any other ARK server.
15. How long does it take for an ARK server to start?
ARK servers can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes (or even longer) to start, depending on the map, mods, and server hardware. Be patient!
Beyond the Game: Learning and Community
ARK: Survival Evolved, while entertaining, also encourages problem-solving, resource management, and teamwork – valuable skills in the real world. You can find other people who share your passion for understanding how we learn from games at the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org).
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of ARK server management, you can successfully transfer your single player world and create a thriving multiplayer experience for yourself and your friends. Good luck, Survivor!