How to Remove the Level Cap in Ark: Survival Evolved
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The level cap in Ark: Survival Evolved can be restrictive, especially for experienced players or those running private servers. Removing it allows for further character progression, unlocking more Engrams, and overall enhancing the gameplay experience. You can remove the level cap in Ark by modifying the GameUserSettings.ini file. This involves adding specific code that overrides the default level limits for both players and creatures. Be careful while modifying this file, as improper changes can corrupt your game.
Modifying the GameUserSettings.ini File
This is the primary method for removing the level cap and it involves directly editing the game’s configuration file. This allows for granular control over how much you increase the level limits.
Accessing the File
The GameUserSettings.ini file is typically located in the following directory:
[Your Ark Installation Directory]ShooterGameSavedConfigWindowsServer
If you’re playing single-player, the path will likely be:
[Your Ark Installation Directory]ShooterGameSavedConfigWindowsNoEditor
You’ll need a text editor like Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (Mac) to open and modify the file.
Adding the Override Code
Once you have the file open, you’ll need to add the following lines within the [ServerSettings] section. If the [ServerSettings] section doesn’t exist, create it at the end of the file.
OverrideMaxExperiencePointsPlayer=999999999 OverrideMaxExperiencePointsDino=999999999 MaxCharacterLevel=200 MaxTamedDinoLevel=450 -
OverrideMaxExperiencePointsPlayer: This line sets the maximum amount of experience points a player can accumulate. Setting it to a very large number, like
999999999, essentially removes the experience cap. -
OverrideMaxExperiencePointsDino: This line does the same for dinosaurs. It allows them to gain significantly more experience than the default.
-
MaxCharacterLevel: This defines the maximum level a player can reach. Change
200to your desired maximum level. Remember, you’ll also need to make sure you have sufficient engram points to learn everything. -
MaxTamedDinoLevel: This determines the maximum level a tamed dino can achieve after taming bonuses.
450is often used, but you can adjust this to your liking.
Saving and Restarting
After adding the code, save the GameUserSettings.ini file. If you’re on a dedicated server, restart the server for the changes to take effect. If you’re in single-player, simply exit the game completely and relaunch it.
Using Mods
Another easy and reliable method for removing the level cap in Ark is by using mods from the Steam Workshop. The mods often automate the process of modifying the configuration files.
Finding Suitable Mods
Search the Steam Workshop for mods specifically designed to increase or remove level caps. Look for mods that are frequently updated and have positive user reviews. Common keywords to use in your search include “level cap,” “level unlock,” “experience boost,” and “dino levels.”
Installing and Activating Mods
Subscribe to the mod you want to use on the Steam Workshop. When you launch Ark, the mod will automatically download and install. To activate the mod, go to the “Settings” menu in the Ark main menu and select the “Mods” tab. Enable the mod by selecting it and pressing the right arrow. Restart the game for the mod to take effect.
Mod-Specific Configurations
Some mods may have their own configuration options that allow you to fine-tune the level cap and other settings. Refer to the mod’s description on the Steam Workshop for details on how to configure it.
Console Commands (Single Player & Admin Access)
Console commands can also be used, but they are generally less permanent and may require re-application after restarting the game or server.
Accessing the Console
To access the console, press the Tab key while in-game.
Relevant Commands
- GiveExpToPlayer
0for<AlsoShareToTribe>means no,1means yes. - GiveExpToTarget
: This command grants experience to the creature you’re looking at. - SetPlayerMaxLevel
: Sets the maximum level a player can reach. This command may not persist after a restart, so it’s better to use the GameUserSettings.inimethod for a permanent change.
Note: You typically need to use the enablecheats <password> command (if a password is set) before using these commands.
Important Considerations
- Backup Your Files: Before making any changes to configuration files, always create a backup. This allows you to easily revert to the original settings if something goes wrong.
- Server Stability: Radically increasing the level cap can potentially impact server performance, especially on heavily populated servers. Monitor your server’s performance after making changes.
- Engram Points: Remember to also consider Engram points. Increased levels won’t be beneficial if you don’t have enough points to learn new recipes. Mods can help with this, or you can adjust the Engram point gain per level in the configuration files.
- Balance: Removing the level cap can significantly alter the game’s balance. Consider how this will affect your gameplay experience and make adjustments as needed.
- Mod Compatibility: If using mods, ensure they are compatible with each other and with the current version of Ark. Conflicting mods can cause crashes or other issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will removing the level cap break my game?
No, but modifying configuration files improperly can cause issues. Always back up your files before making changes. Using well-maintained mods is generally a safer alternative.
2. How do I find my Ark installation directory?
The installation directory depends on where you installed Ark through Steam. Usually, it’s in C:Program Files (x86)SteamsteamappscommonARK. You can also right-click Ark in your Steam library, select “Properties,” go to the “Local Files” tab, and click “Browse Local Files.”
3. Where exactly do I put the code in the GameUserSettings.ini file?
Place the code within the [ServerSettings] section. If the [ServerSettings] section doesn’t exist, create it at the very bottom of the file. Ensure there are no syntax errors (e.g., missing brackets or incorrect spacing).
4. Can I remove the level cap in single-player mode?
Yes, the same methods apply to single-player as they do to dedicated servers. The only difference is the file path to the GameUserSettings.ini file.
5. Do I need to restart the server after modifying the file?
Yes, you need to restart the server or the game (in single-player) for the changes to take effect.
6. What is the highest level I can set for players and dinos?
Theoretically, you can set very high values, but practically, you should consider server performance and game balance. Levels beyond a few hundred may not provide significant benefits and could cause issues.
7. Will this work on all platforms (PC, Xbox, PS4)?
Modifying configuration files is primarily a PC feature. Consoles typically don’t allow direct access to these files. You might find mods that achieve a similar effect on consoles, but the process will likely be different and dependent on platform-specific capabilities.
8. Can I use multiple mods to increase the level cap?
It’s generally not recommended to use multiple mods that modify the same settings, as they may conflict and cause issues. Choose one mod that suits your needs and stick with it.
9. How do I give myself experience points using console commands?
Use the command GiveExpToPlayer <PlayerID> <ExperienceAmount> <AlsoShareToTribe>. You can find your PlayerID using commands like ListPlayers in the console.
10. What happens if I set the level cap too high?
Setting extremely high level caps can potentially lead to server performance issues and game instability. It’s best to test with reasonable values and gradually increase them as needed.
11. Are there any mods that automatically adjust Engram points with level increases?
Yes, many mods that increase the level cap also include features that adjust Engram point gain per level or provide alternative ways to acquire Engram points.
12. If I remove the level cap, will new dinos spawn at higher levels?
No, removing the level cap only allows players and tamed dinos to gain more levels. It doesn’t affect the spawn levels of wild dinos. For that, you would need separate mods or configuration settings that affect dino spawn levels.
13. How do I revert the changes if I don’t like them?
If you backed up your GameUserSettings.ini file, simply restore the backup. If you’re using mods, disable or unsubscribe from the mod in the Steam Workshop.
14. Does removing the level cap affect achievements?
It shouldn’t directly affect most achievements, but some achievements might become easier to obtain due to increased player and dino power.
15. Can I change the level cap mid-game?
Yes, you can change the level cap mid-game by modifying the GameUserSettings.ini file or using mods. However, players and dinos may need to gain additional experience to reach the new maximum level. It’s always best to test these changes on a backup before implementing them on your main save.