How to Download Ark: Survival Evolved

The question of how to download Ark: Survival Evolved is a common one for both newcomers and returning players alike. The process isn’t overly complex, but it can vary depending on your platform of choice. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to download the game, alongside answers to the most frequently asked questions about accessing and playing Ark.

Downloading Ark: Survival Evolved on PC

For PC users, there are primarily two main avenues for downloading Ark: Survival Evolved: Steam and the Epic Games Store.

Downloading via Steam

1. Launch Steam: Make sure you have the Steam client installed on your PC. If not, you’ll need to download and install it from the official Steam website.
2. Search for Ark: Survival Evolved: In the Steam client, use the search bar located at the top right corner and type “Ark: Survival Evolved.”
3. Select the Game: Click on the game from the search results.
4. Add to Cart/Purchase: If you haven’t purchased the game yet, you’ll be prompted to add it to your cart and complete the purchase. Note that Ark: Survival Ascended is the newer version and will need to be purchased separately as it’s not a free upgrade from Ark: Survival Evolved.
5. Install: Once purchased, click the “Install” button to begin the download process. Ensure you have sufficient storage space available. The game requires around 60 GB of free space.
6. Play: Once installation is complete, click “Play” to launch the game.

Downloading via Epic Games Store

1. Launch Epic Games Store: If you don’t have the Epic Games Launcher, download and install it from the official Epic Games website.
2. Search for Ark: Survival Evolved: Use the search bar and type “Ark: Survival Evolved.”
3. Select the Game: Click on the game from the search results.
4. Add to Library/Purchase: If you haven’t already, you might need to “Get” it if it’s a free promotion or purchase it if it is not. Add it to your library in either case.
5. Install: Select install after adding to your library or making a purchase. Ensure you have enough storage space; typically 60 GB is needed.
6. Play: Once the installation is complete, launch the game through the Epic Games Launcher.

Downloading via BlueStacks (Android Emulation)

While Ark: Survival Evolved is not designed as a traditional PC game, some players use Android emulators like BlueStacks to try and run the mobile version of the game on their PCs. This method is not officially supported and may not offer the same performance or experience as the dedicated PC version.

1. Download and Install BlueStacks: Go to the BlueStacks website and download the emulator.
2. Set up the Google Play Store: You will need to create or sign into a Google account.
3. Search for Ark: Survival Evolved: Within the BlueStacks interface, find and open the Google Play Store and search for the game.
4. Install: Install the game as you would on any Android device.
5. Play: Launch the game from within BlueStacks.

Downloading Ark: Survival Evolved on Other Platforms

Xbox and Playstation

For console users on Xbox and Playstation, the download process is similar. You need to access the Microsoft Store (Xbox) or the Playstation Store (Playstation) and search for the game.

1. Access the Store: Navigate to the store on your respective console.
2. Search for Ark: Survival Evolved: Use the search functionality to find the game.
3. Purchase and Download: Purchase the game if you don’t already own it, and then select “Download.”
4. Install: The game will install automatically once it’s downloaded.
5. Play: Launch the game from your console’s game library.

Nintendo Switch

Downloading the game on Nintendo Switch is straightforward.

1. Access the eShop: Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch console.
2. Search for Ark: Survival Evolved: Type the game name in the search bar.
3. Purchase and Download: Select the game and proceed with the purchase if required.
4. Install: The download and installation will happen automatically.
5. Play: You can then launch the game from your Switch game library.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Downloading Ark

1. Is Ark: Survival Evolved free on PC?

The original Ark: Survival Evolved was offered for free at times on platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store as promotions. However, it’s not permanently free. The remastered version, Ark: Survival Ascended, is not a free upgrade and must be purchased separately. You can monitor the store pages for any future promotions or sales.

2. Where can I download Ark: Survival Evolved?

You can download the game on PC through Steam or the Epic Games Store. Console versions can be downloaded through the Microsoft Store for Xbox and the Playstation Store for Playstation. On the Nintendo Switch, you can download it from the eShop.

3. Is Ark: Survival Ascended a free upgrade?

No, Ark: Survival Ascended is not a free upgrade for those who own Ark: Survival Evolved. It is a separate purchase on all platforms, including PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X.

4. Do I need Xbox Live to play Ark on Xbox?

Online multiplayer on Xbox requires Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core. However, single-player and offline modes do not require these subscriptions.

5. Can I play Ark offline?

Yes, you can play Ark: Survival Evolved offline in single-player mode on your PC. All the features available in the online game are available offline, as well.

6. What are the minimum system requirements for Ark on PC?

The minimum system requirements are:
* OS: Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions)
* Processor: Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better
* Memory: 8 GB RAM
* Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB or better
* DirectX: Version 10
* Storage: 60 GB available space

7. Do I need a good computer to play Ark?

Yes, Ark is a demanding game, so your computer needs to meet or exceed the minimum specifications for a smooth gaming experience. It’s particularly RAM intensive, and a video card with at least 2 GB of VRAM is recommended.

8. Can I play Ark on a laptop?

Yes, laptops can run Ark if they meet the minimum specifications. However, you should pay attention to the thermal design of the laptop. A cooling pad may be needed if the laptop overheats.

9. What does the “ARK” in Ark: Survival Evolved stand for?

The term “Ark” is derived from the Latin word “arca,” meaning a chest or box. It’s also a reference to the “Ark of the Covenant,” a chest or box that holds a covenant.

10. Is it possible to play Ark on a Mac?

While there is no dedicated version for MacOS, players can potentially use methods like Steam Play or emulators to attempt to run the game. Performance and stability can vary greatly with these methods.

11. How do I download Ark on an Android device?

You can download the mobile version of Ark: Survival Evolved from the Google Play Store. Simply search for the game and install it as you would with other mobile apps.

12. How do I set up an Ark server?

To set up an Ark server, you can either host it yourself on your PC or use a third-party server hosting provider. Most providers have a setup process for you to configure the server according to your requirements.

13. Is it possible to join a free Ark server?

Yes, you can join a free Ark server. There are many options available, including community-hosted servers and free server options offered by some hosting platforms.

14. Are there any free DLCs for Ark?

Yes, several DLCs for Ark: Survival Evolved are free, including maps like Fjordur, Lost Island, Ragnarok, Valguero, Crystal Isles, and The Center.

15. How much does it cost to rent an Ark server?

Renting an Ark server typically costs between $15 and $30 per month, depending on the provider and the server specifications.

By following this detailed guide and the answers to these FAQs, you should now have a clear understanding of how to download Ark: Survival Evolved and how to troubleshoot any questions you might have. Happy surviving!