Is Ark Free to Keep? A Deep Dive into Ark’s Pricing History and Current Status
Yes, Ark: Survival Evolved has been free to keep at various times through promotions on platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store. However, it’s essential to understand the specifics of these promotions, as the base game typically has a purchase price. Let’s delve into the fascinating, and sometimes confusing, world of Ark’s pricing, free offers, and future plans.
Understanding Ark’s Pricing Model
Ark: Survival Evolved initially launched with a traditional pricing model – you buy the game, and you own it. The game has been available for purchase on multiple platforms, including PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store), PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Alongside the base game, Studio Wildcard released numerous DLCs (Downloadable Content) and Expansion Packs, which are typically sold separately, adding new creatures, environments, and gameplay features.
The landscape shifted when Ark: Survival Ascended, a remaster of the original game built on Unreal Engine 5, was announced. This announcement triggered a series of changes to the pricing structure and availability of both Ark: Survival Evolved and its successor. Notably, the original plan to bundle Ark: Survival Ascended with Ark 2 was adjusted, leading to a standalone release of the remaster.
Free Promotions and Limited-Time Offers
Over the years, Studio Wildcard and the platforms hosting Ark have occasionally offered the game for free to keep for a limited time. These promotions are typically designed to attract new players and boost the game’s community.
- Epic Games Store: The Epic Games Store has given away Ark: Survival Evolved on multiple occasions as part of its weekly free game offerings. During these periods, anyone with an Epic Games account could claim the game and add it to their library permanently, at no cost. It’s crucial to note that these offers are time-sensitive and only available for a specific duration, typically one week.
- Steam: Similar to the Epic Games Store, Steam has also offered Ark: Survival Evolved for free to keep on occasion. These promotions often coincide with significant game updates, announcements (like the Ark 2 release window), or special events.
Important Considerations
When Ark is offered for free, it’s usually the base game only. DLCs and expansion packs typically remain separate purchases. Keep an eye out for special bundles or discounts on DLCs during these free promotions to maximize your savings.
Always double-check the specific terms of the free offer. Confirm the duration of the promotion and whether it’s a “free to keep” offer or a “free to play” weekend.
The Future of Ark and Associated Costs
The release of Ark: Survival Ascended and the ongoing development of Ark 2 introduce new financial considerations for players.
- Ark: Survival Ascended: This remaster is not a free upgrade for owners of Ark: Survival Evolved. It’s a separate purchase. While initially planned as a bundle, it’s now available standalone, but it comes with a price tag.
- Ark 2: The highly anticipated sequel to Ark: Survival Evolved is also a separate purchase. There are no current plans to offer Ark 2 for free to owners of either Ark: Survival Evolved or Ark: Survival Ascended.
- Server Hosting: Whether you’re playing Ark: Survival Evolved or Ark: Survival Ascended, hosting your own server or renting one from a provider will incur costs. While you can host a server yourself, it requires technical expertise and dedicated hardware. Many players opt for paid server hosting services for ease of use and improved performance.
Studio Wildcard’s decision to shut down the official servers for the original Ark: Survival Evolved has further fueled discussions about the value proposition of Ark: Survival Ascended and the overall direction of the franchise.
Alternative Ways to Play Ark
Even if you missed the free promotions, there are still ways to experience Ark without breaking the bank:
- Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye on Steam, the Epic Games Store, and other digital storefronts for sales and discounts on Ark: Survival Evolved, its DLCs, and even Ark: Survival Ascended.
- Game Bundles: Some retailers offer game bundles that include Ark: Survival Evolved along with other titles, providing a cost-effective way to expand your game library.
- Shared Accounts: Some platforms allow family sharing, enabling you to share your game library with family members and potentially play Ark without purchasing it individually.
- Free DLC Maps: Certain DLC maps, such as Fjordur, Lost Island, Ragnarok, Valguero, and Crystal Isles are available for free.
Is Ark Worth the Cost?
Ultimately, whether Ark is worth the cost depends on your personal preferences and gaming habits. Ark offers a unique blend of survival, crafting, and dinosaur taming, providing hundreds of hours of gameplay. If you enjoy these genres, Ark can be a worthwhile investment. Consider waiting for sales or discounts to reduce the financial commitment.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Was Ark: Survival Evolved ever permanently free?
Yes, Ark: Survival Evolved has been permanently free at times through promotions on the Epic Games Store and Steam. These promotions are typically time-limited, allowing players to claim the game for free during a specific period and keep it in their library forever.
2. Is Ark: Survival Ascended a free upgrade for Ark: Survival Evolved owners?
No, Ark: Survival Ascended is not a free upgrade. It’s a separate purchase. Studio Wildcard has confirmed that there is no free upgrade path from the original game to the remaster.
3. Will Ark 2 be free for Ark owners?
There are no current plans to offer Ark 2 for free to owners of Ark: Survival Evolved or Ark: Survival Ascended. It will be a separate purchase.
4. Are there any free DLCs for Ark: Survival Evolved?
Yes, several DLC maps are free, including:
- ARK Fjordur
- ARK Lost Island
- ARK Ragnarok
- ARK Valguero
- ARK Crystal Isles
- ARK The Center
5. How often is Ark free on the Epic Games Store?
The frequency of Ark being offered for free on the Epic Games Store varies. It’s best to regularly check the Epic Games Store’s free games section to stay informed about current promotions.
6. Is server hosting for Ark free?
While there are free ARK server hosting options, they often come with limitations, such as limited slots, performance restrictions, and advertisements. Paid server hosting typically provides better performance and more customization options.
7. What is the difference between Ark: Survival Evolved and Ark: Survival Ascended?
Ark: Survival Ascended is a remaster of Ark: Survival Evolved built on Unreal Engine 5. It features improved graphics, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and other enhancements. The original is built on Unreal Engine 4.
8. Why did Studio Wildcard shut down the official servers for Ark: Survival Evolved?
Studio Wildcard shut down the official servers for Ark: Survival Evolved to focus on Ark: Survival Ascended and Ark 2. This decision aimed to consolidate the player base and resources towards the newer iterations of the game.
9. Can I play Ark: Survival Evolved offline?
Yes, Ark: Survival Evolved has a single-player mode that allows you to play offline. This is a good way to learn the game mechanics and explore the world without the pressures of online play.
10. How much does it cost to rent an Ark server?
The cost of renting an Ark server varies depending on the provider, the number of slots, and the performance of the server. Prices can range from $15 to $30 per month, or even higher for more advanced options.
11. Will there be future free promotions for Ark games?
It’s possible that Studio Wildcard or platform providers like Steam and the Epic Games Store may offer future free promotions for Ark games, but there’s no guarantee. Keep an eye on official announcements and storefronts for potential offers.
12. Are Ark expansion packs free?
No, most Ark expansion packs are not free. They are typically sold separately from the base game. However, occasionally, there might be discounts or bundles that include expansion packs at a reduced price.
13. What happens if I claimed Ark for free on the Epic Games Store, but I don’t play it right away?
If you claimed Ark for free during an Epic Games Store promotion, the game will remain in your library permanently, even if you don’t download or play it immediately.
14. Is Ark still worth playing in 2024, considering Ark: Survival Ascended is available?
Yes, Ark: Survival Evolved is still worth playing in 2024 for players who prefer the original experience or are not ready to invest in Ark: Survival Ascended. Many enjoy the original’s mods, features, and familiarity. However, do keep in mind the official servers have been shut down so it would be single player or unofficial servers.
15. Where can I find the latest news and updates about Ark?
You can find the latest news and updates about Ark on the official Studio Wildcard website, the Ark community forums, and social media channels. Also, be sure to check gaming news websites and YouTube channels that cover Ark.