How to Crossplay on Ark: A Comprehensive Guide
Crossplay in Ark: Survival Evolved allows players on different platforms to experience the game together, fostering a more connected and diverse gaming community. However, Ark’s crossplay functionality isn’t universal across all platforms, and it’s crucial to understand which platforms can connect with each other to avoid disappointment. Simply put, Ark crossplay is primarily enabled between PC (Microsoft Store version) and Xbox platforms. If you own the Steam PC version or the Playstation version of Ark, crossplay is unavailable to you in this scenario, and you would need to play with others of the same version of Ark.
The core requirement for crossplay between PC and Xbox is that the PC version must be purchased through the Microsoft Store. This is a critical point as it excludes players using the Steam version of Ark from directly joining Xbox players. Players with the Epic version of Ark can still play with the Steam version on dedicated servers, but it is not crossplay as defined by the game. This specific limitation arises from the game’s framework and the way different platforms handle their online multiplayer services.
To enable and play with others through crossplay, you will be needing a private server that you can all join together. This usually means setting up your own server or paying for a server hosting service. Keep in mind that console versions (PlayStation and Nintendo Switch) do not support crossplay with PC or Xbox.
Enabling Crossplay on a Dedicated Server
If you are running your own server or have rented one from a hosting provider, enabling crossplay follows a similar process. Here’s a basic outline of how to typically do this:
- Access your Server Settings: Log in to your GPORTAL account (or similar hosting platform) or access your local server configuration settings.
- Locate Basic Settings: Find the section dedicated to “Basic settings” or similar, in your server configurations.
- Choose your Crossplay Preference: This is where you select the relevant crossplay option.
- You will generally have options like “Steam,” “Steam+Epic”, or “Epic” or sometimes, an option to use crossplay between Xbox and PC.
- Select the option that allows players with the Microsoft Store version of Ark to play with Xbox players, or in any way you would like your players to access the server.
- Restart the Server: Apply the changes and restart your server for the settings to take effect.
Once the server restarts, players on Microsoft Store PCs and Xbox consoles should be able to find and join your server, provided they are using the same version of the game. Please be sure that you are communicating which version of the game is being run, so that you can avoid any confusion.
Playing with Friends on a Server
Once your crossplay server is up and running, the process of joining is standard to joining Ark servers in general:
- Launch Ark: Survival Evolved: Open your game from the platform you play on.
- Select Join Ark: Navigate to the multiplayer options and choose “Join Ark.”
- Adjust Filters: Refine the server filters to your liking, or simply input the server’s name or IP address if you know it.
- Locate your Server: Browse the available servers or use the search function to find the server you intend to join.
- Connect: Select the server and click “Join” to start playing!
Remember, it’s always crucial to ensure that your game is up-to-date to avoid any connection or compatibility issues. If you and your friend are having problems connecting, ensure that the server address is correct, check to see if the server is online, and try restarting your game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ark Crossplay
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Ark crossplay to provide further clarification:
1. Can all platforms play Ark together?
No, Ark does not support full crossplay. Crossplay is mainly available between PC (Microsoft Store version) and Xbox. Playstation and Nintendo systems do not support crossplay with PC or Xbox.
2. Can Steam and Epic users play Ark together?
Yes, Steam and Epic users can play together by joining the same dedicated server, as long as the server allows both versions. However, this is not considered “crossplay” within the game’s defined functionality, but rather, compatibility between game versions on the same platform of PC.
3. Is Ark crossplay between PS4 and PC?
No, Ark does not support crossplay between PS4 and PC. PlayStation users can only play with other PlayStation users.
4. Is Ark crossplay between Xbox and PS4?
No, there is no crossplay between Xbox and PS4 in Ark.
5. Is Ark crossplay between Nintendo Switch and PC?
No, Ark does not support crossplay between Nintendo Switch and PC.
6. Is Ark crossplay between Xbox and the Steam version of PC?
No, crossplay is only supported between the Microsoft Store version of Ark on PC and Xbox. The Steam version of Ark cannot participate in this crossplay setup.
7. Do I need to buy Ark on the Microsoft Store for crossplay with Xbox?
Yes, if you want to play with Xbox players on PC, you must purchase Ark from the Microsoft Store.
8. Can I play Ark crossplay on a non-dedicated server?
No, it is difficult to achieve crossplay on a non-dedicated server. Non-dedicated servers often restrict tethering and have other limitations that can prevent players on different platforms to play together.
9. Is Ark mobile crossplay with other platforms?
Yes, Ark mobile supports crossplay with iOS and Android, however, it does not support crossplay with any PC or console versions of the game.
10. Do I need to pay for a server to play Ark with crossplay?
While you can play with others on your own local dedicated server, it is recommended that you use a paid hosting service to ensure proper accessibility and connectivity for crossplay.
11. How do I know if a server supports crossplay?
The server listing may indicate the supported platforms, or it might be stated in the server’s name or description. Ask the server host if you are still unsure of the settings of their server.
12. Is Ark free on PC?
From time to time Ark is offered for free as a promotion on different platforms, usually on the Epic Game Store. However, this only applies during the promotion period.
13. Is Ark Mobile free?
Yes, Ark Mobile is free on both Android and iOS platforms.
14. Why can’t I join my friends on Ark?
Make sure that you all have the correct server address and port number, verify your game is up-to-date, check if the server is online, and try restarting your game. Check to see if the server allows crossplay with the platform you are on.
15. Does the free promotion on Epic Games store support crossplay with Xbox?
The free version of Ark given on the Epic Game Store will not support crossplay with Xbox, as you need the Microsoft Store Version of the game for this compatibility.
Conclusion
Crossplay in Ark can be an exciting way to connect with players on different platforms, however it does have its limitations. By being mindful of which platforms are supported, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience with your friends. Remember, the key to Ark crossplay is the Microsoft Store version of the game on PC and understanding limitations with consoles. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the wilds of Ark with a broader community.