Is Ark: Survival Evolved Free on Epic Games? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of whether Ark: Survival Evolved is currently free on the Epic Games Store is a common one, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no. Ark: Survival Evolved is not currently free on the Epic Games Store. While it was offered for free for a limited time in the past, it now requires purchase. However, the Epic Games Store regularly offers free games, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for future opportunities.
Past Free Promotions of Ark on Epic
It’s essential to understand that while Ark: Survival Evolved isn’t always free on the Epic Games Store, it has been offered for free in the past. Specifically, a free promotion occurred in September 2022, where the base game was available to claim for a limited time. This type of promotion is part of the Epic Games Store’s strategy to attract new users, and they often feature popular titles as part of their weekly giveaways. However, these giveaways are time-limited, and once the promotion ends, the game typically reverts to its regular price.
Why Do Games Go Free on Epic?
The Epic Games Store, a competitor to Steam, frequently gives away games as a strategic marketing tactic. This practice allows them to attract new users to their platform, build a user base, and increase engagement. The free game model has proven successful, as it encourages users to regularly check the store and download games they might not otherwise consider purchasing. This strategy benefits both Epic and gamers, as users get access to free titles, and Epic gains a wider audience.
Ark: Survival Ascended and Its Impact on Free Offers
The landscape of Ark has recently shifted with the release of Ark: Survival Ascended, a remastered version of the game. Ark: Survival Ascended is not a free upgrade and is sold separately for a price. This new release, priced at around $59.99, has effectively replaced the original Ark game in many ways. This means the original Ark: Survival Evolved is less likely to be given away freely, as the focus shifts towards the newer title. The new game also requires a purchase, and there is no free upgrade offered to players who previously owned Ark: Survival Evolved.
Playing Ark on Epic Games
Even though Ark: Survival Evolved is not currently free, it can still be purchased and played through the Epic Games Store. Purchasing through the Epic Games Store gives players access to the full game and the ability to join servers with both Epic and Steam users.
Cross-Platform Play
A key advantage for users who acquire Ark through the Epic Games Store is the ability to play on cross-platform servers with those who have purchased the game on Steam. This allows for a wider player base and more options for multiplayer gameplay.
Epic Games Store Free Games Program
Despite Ark: Survival Evolved not being currently free, the Epic Games Store does still offer free games weekly. The Epic Games free game program is ongoing and has been stated to continue into the future, allowing users to claim various free games each week. Check the Epic Games Store regularly to see what is currently available.
How to Claim Free Games
To claim free games on the Epic Games Store, users simply need to have an account and log into the store via the desktop app or website. Once a free game is claimed, it is added to the user’s library and remains there permanently. This system creates a user-friendly and enticing platform for gamers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ark on Epic Games
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you understand the intricacies of Ark: Survival Evolved and its availability on the Epic Games Store:
1. Was Ark: Survival Evolved ever free on the Epic Games Store?
Yes, Ark: Survival Evolved was offered for free on the Epic Games Store for a limited time, specifically until September 30, 2022,. This was part of Epic’s regular free game promotions.
2. Is Ark: Survival Ascended free on Epic Games?
No, Ark: Survival Ascended is not free. It is a separate, remastered game that must be purchased. It is not a free upgrade for existing Ark: Survival Evolved owners.
3. Can I play with my friends on Steam if I get Ark from Epic?
Yes, Ark supports cross-platform play between Epic and Steam users. You can join the same servers regardless of which platform you use to play.
4. Is Ark free on PC through other platforms?
Ark: Survival Evolved was also offered free on Steam for a limited time in the past. It is not consistently free on either platform.
5. How often does the Epic Games Store offer free games?
The Epic Games Store typically offers at least one free game each week. Keep an eye on the store’s main page or announcements for details.
6. Will Epic Games continue to offer free games in 2024?
Yes, the Epic Games free games program is set to continue through 2024 and beyond, as stated by Epic. They have not indicated any plans to end this initiative.
7. Is Ark Ragnarok free on Epic Games?
Ragnarok is a free DLC expansion map for Ark: Survival Evolved. It is free to use for anyone who owns the base game, regardless of which platform they play on.
8. How do I download Ark from the Epic Games Store?
You can download Ark: Survival Evolved or Ark: Survival Ascended after purchase by logging into the Epic Games Store website or desktop app and adding the game to your library.
9. Why does Epic Games give away free games?
Epic Games offers free games as a marketing strategy to attract users to their platform and compete with other stores like Steam.
10. What are the system requirements to play Ark on PC?
The system requirements vary slightly between Ark: Survival Evolved and Ark: Survival Ascended. Be sure to check the official Epic Games store listing for each game for specific requirements before purchasing.
11. Are there any free Ark servers?
Yes, there are numerous free Ark servers available run by communities or through free server hosting options. These are fantastic alternatives if you are not interested in paying for private server hosting.
12. Will Ark: Survival Evolved be free again in 2024?
It is difficult to predict if Ark: Survival Evolved will be free again. The focus has shifted to Ark: Survival Ascended, making a free offering of the older game less likely.
13. Is Steam free to use?
Yes, Steam is free to use and create an account. However, you usually have to pay to purchase games on the platform.
14. Are there any other free Ark games or DLCs?
Besides the Ragnarok map, other DLC expansions usually cost money. However, there have been instances where some DLC was made free for a limited time as part of promotions on both Steam and the Epic Games Store.
15. Is Ark similar to Rust?
Both Ark and Rust are survival games, but they have different focuses. Ark features taming dinosaurs and building bases, while Rust is more focused on PvP and player interaction. They differ greatly in their grind and gameplay.
Conclusion
While Ark: Survival Evolved is not currently free on the Epic Games Store, it’s a game worth keeping an eye on. Epic’s ongoing free game program could mean the game becomes free once more in the future. By staying informed about promotions and free giveaways, gamers can potentially get Ark: Survival Evolved or other great titles without spending any money. The Epic Games Store remains an excellent resource for players looking for free games and to connect with a thriving gaming community. Remember to visit the store weekly for updates and new free games.