Is Ark 2 a Remaster? Untangling the Survival Saga

The short and direct answer is: No, Ark 2 is not a remaster. It’s a completely new game, a sequel to the original Ark: Survival Evolved, built from the ground up with significant changes in gameplay, mechanics, and setting. The confusion likely arises due to the concurrent development and release of Ark: Survival Ascended, which is a remaster of the original game. To put it simply, Ark 2 is a brand-new sequel, while Ark: Survival Ascended is a rebuilt version of Ark 1 in a new engine. Understanding the distinction is key to knowing what to expect from these upcoming titles in the survival genre. Let’s dive deeper into the details to dispel any further misunderstandings.

Understanding the Difference: Ark 2 vs. Ark: Survival Ascended

The release landscape for the Ark franchise is certainly a bit complex, but breaking down the key differences between Ark 2 and Ark: Survival Ascended will make it clearer. Ark: Survival Ascended is, in essence, a ground-up rebuild of Ark: Survival Evolved using Unreal Engine 5. It features enhanced graphics, improved performance, and a new modding system compatible across both PC and consoles. It’s the original experience, revitalized with modern technology.

Ark 2, on the other hand, is a full-fledged sequel with a completely new storyline, gameplay mechanics, and a vastly different feel. It moves from a first-person to a third-person perspective, incorporates “souls-like melee combat,” and takes place on an alien planet called Arat, after the events of Genesis: Part 2. It’s not about just refining the original experience; it’s about creating something new and distinct.

Why the Confusion?

The confusion is understandable, primarily because the two projects are being developed and released around the same time, and are both connected to the original Ark: Survival Evolved. Furthermore, both titles are being developed by the same team using the Unreal Engine 5. These factors can easily mislead players to think that Ark 2 is just a more polished version or a remaster of the original when, in fact, it is a separate and completely unique game experience.

Key Differences in Summary:

• Ark 2:
  • Sequel to Ark: Survival Evolved
  • Third-person perspective
  • “Souls-like melee combat”
  • New storyline featuring Vin Diesel as Santiago
  • Set on an alien planet called Arat
  • Built from scratch using Unreal Engine 5
• Ark: Survival Ascended:
  • Remaster of Ark: Survival Evolved
  • Preserves the first-person perspective
  • Improved graphics with Unreal Engine 5
  • Cross-platform modding compatibility
  • Retains the core gameplay experience of the original

Delving Deeper into Ark 2

Ark 2 is a bold step forward for the franchise. It’s not simply an iteration on what came before; it’s a reinvention. The switch to third-person perspective is a significant change, altering the core feel of gameplay. The emphasis on “souls-like melee combat” adds a new layer of challenge, requiring more strategic engagements. The narrative focus is also ramped up, with a storyline that features prominent characters like Vin Diesel’s Santiago, and Auli’i Cravalho’s Meeka.

The game is also embracing new technologies and mechanics. Advanced character traversal, such as mantling, free-climbing, parkour, sliding, and swinging, is a major feature. Moreover, the inclusion of new dinosaurs like the Stegosaurus and Brachiosaurus signals that this isn’t just a visual upgrade; it’s a completely new and unique adventure.

Why is Ark 2 Not a Remaster?

• Core Gameplay Changes: A different perspective and new combat mechanics fundamentally change how the game is played.
• New Story and Setting: The narrative focus on an alien planet removes it from being simply a graphical refresh.
• Technological Advancement: Ark 2 utilizes the new capabilities of Unreal Engine 5 for groundbreaking technology not present in any remaster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 common questions that will help further clarify the differences between Ark 2 and Ark: Survival Ascended:

1. Will Ark 1 servers shut down?

Yes, the official servers for Ark: Survival Evolved were shut down on September 30th, 2023, to make way for Ark: Survival Ascended.

2. Can I still play Ark 1?

While official servers are shut down, you can still play Ark: Survival Evolved on private servers. The purchase of Ark: Survival Ascended includes access to Ark: Survival Evolved at time of purchase and will need to be installed separately.

3. Is Ark: Survival Ascended only a graphics upgrade?

No, while it boasts enhanced visuals, Ark: Survival Ascended also includes cross-platform mod support, making it more than just a graphical remaster.

4. Will Ark 2 feature a first-person option?

No, Ark 2 will be exclusively a third-person game due to its new combat system.

5. What is “Souls-like combat”?

It means combat will be more challenging, requiring precision, strategic blocking, dodging, and a focus on timing. It will also include combo attacks and special abilities.

6. When will Ark 2 be released?

Ark 2 is currently scheduled for release at the end of 2024.

7. Is Ark 2 only single-player?

No, Ark 2 is fully multiplayer, although the specifics of its multiplayer mechanics are not yet known.

8. Does Ark 2 take place on Earth?

No, Ark 2 is set on an alien planet named Arat, after the events of Genesis: Part 2.

9. Is Vin Diesel’s character canon?

Yes, Vin Diesel plays a version of Santiago, a character from the Ark lore. Although his version will be a little divergent.

10. Will new dinosaurs be in Ark Ascended?

Yes, the mod browser will allow for new dinos and content to be added via mods.

11. What are the confirmed new dinosaurs in Ark 2?

Stegosaurus and Brachiosaurus have been confirmed as new dinosaurs in Ark 2.

12. What maps will be in Ark: Survival Ascended?

At launch, Ark: Survival Ascended will include The Island, Scorched Earth, and the Survival of the Fittest variants of these maps. Aberration is slated for a later update.

13. Can mods from PC be used on console in Ark Ascended?

Yes, Ark: Survival Ascended features seamless cross-platform modding, allowing PC mods to be used on consoles for the first time.

14. What engine are Ark 2 and Ark Ascended built on?

Both Ark 2 and Ark: Survival Ascended are built on Unreal Engine 5.

15. Why is Ark 2 delayed?

The delay is primarily due to the challenges of working with Unreal Engine 5 to achieve the desired level of quality.

In conclusion, while both Ark: Survival Ascended and Ark 2 are connected to the legacy of the original Ark: Survival Evolved, they are entirely different projects. Ark 2 is a brand-new sequel, a completely different gaming experience, whereas Ark: Survival Ascended serves as a remaster of the original game. Players should be aware of these crucial distinctions to manage their expectations and to enjoy the unique experiences both titles offer.