Is ARK Permanent? Unraveling the Survival Evolution
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The question of whether ARK: Survival Evolved and its associated ecosystem are “permanent” is complex and requires a nuanced understanding. In a literal sense, no digital entity is truly permanent. Game servers shut down, data gets corrupted, and technology evolves. However, aspects of the ARK experience strive for permanence in different ways: player memories, modding communities, the lingering impact of its game design, and even its successor games. While official servers for the original ARK: Survival Evolved have been shut down, the core game remains playable, and player-run communities ensure its enduring presence.
Understanding ARK’s Evolving Landscape
The End of Official Servers Doesn’t Mean the End of ARK
The biggest shock to many players was the announcement that official servers for ARK: Survival Evolved would be closing down. This was a significant event because it impacted how many people experienced the game. However, it’s crucial to remember that this doesn’t mean ARK vanished entirely.
The core game remains playable in single-player, non-dedicated server setups (where one player hosts a game for a few others), and, most importantly, on unofficial servers. Unofficial servers are hosted and managed by players, offering a vast array of modifications, rule sets, and communities that keep the ARK experience alive and constantly evolving. These servers are often referred to as “Ark Forever” for a good reason.
The Rise of ARK: Survival Ascended and ARK 2
Studio Wildcard’s decision to sunset official servers was largely tied to the release of ARK: Survival Ascended (ASA), a remaster of the original game using Unreal Engine 5, and the development of ARK 2. These represent the ongoing evolution, not the end, of the ARK universe.
- ARK: Survival Ascended: ASA brings significant visual and performance improvements, along with updated gameplay mechanics. While it’s not a free upgrade for original ARK owners, it serves as a refreshed and enhanced version of the core experience, ensuring its continued relevance.
- ARK 2: While its release has been delayed, ARK 2 promises a drastically different gameplay experience, featuring new mechanics, a narrative focus starring Vin Diesel, and a focus on survival in a primitive world. While it won’t be a continuation of the same game it will retain the same premise.
The Power of the ARK Community and Modding
One of the key factors in ARK’s longevity is its vibrant community and the extensive modding support. Players have created countless modifications, ranging from simple quality-of-life improvements to complete overhauls of the game’s mechanics.
This modding scene allows ARK to constantly reinvent itself, offering fresh content and experiences that keep players engaged for years. The community ensures that even if official development slows down, the game remains dynamic and adaptable.
ARK’s Legacy: A Blueprint for Survival Games
ARK: Survival Evolved has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the survival game genre. Its blend of dinosaur taming, base building, and player-versus-player (PVP) combat has influenced numerous games that followed. Its success helped normalize the survival game genre.
Its legacy extends beyond its own sequels. ARK has proven the appeal of persistent online worlds where players can build, craft, and survive together, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ARK and its Permanence
1. Is ARK: Survival Evolved permanently free?
No, ARK: Survival Evolved is not permanently free in the traditional sense. It was offered for free on the Epic Games Store for a limited time as a promotional offer. However, you can still get it on Steam, and buy the Ark Survival Ascended version on Steam and Epic Games.
2. Are the 2x harvesting, EXP, and taming rates in ARK permanent?
Yes, Studio Wildcard made the decision to permanently set the harvesting, EXP, and taming rates to 2x on official servers before their closure. However, remember this only applied to the official servers that are now shut down. Unofficial servers can, and often do, have their own custom rates.
3. What does “ARK persistent” mean in the context of data?
In the context of data management, ARK (Archival Resource Key) refers to a persistent naming scheme designed to ensure long-term access to digital information objects. This is unrelated to ARK: Survival Evolved itself, but shares the name.
4. Is ARK: Survival Evolved shutting down completely?
No, ARK: Survival Evolved is not shutting down completely. While official servers have closed, the game is still playable in single-player, non-dedicated, and, most importantly, on player-hosted unofficial servers.
5. How much RAM does ARK require?
ARK is a RAM-intensive game. A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is recommended, but 16 GB is preferable for higher settings and smoother performance. Some players even find that 32GB RAM is overkill for gaming alone.
6. What is Ark Forever?
Ark Forever refers to community-run, unofficial ARK servers that are designed to be long-lasting and resistant to wipes (server resets). These servers often aim to provide a balanced PVP and PVE experience.
7. Is ARK 2 delayed?
Yes, ARK 2 has been delayed from its originally planned 2023 release window to late 2024.
8. Will ARK 2 be single-player only?
No, ARK 2 will feature multiplayer. The specific mechanics and player capacity are still being revealed.
9. Will ARK 1 be shut down when ARK 2 comes out?
While the original ARK: Survival Evolved official servers are shut down, you can still buy it on Steam, and buy the Ark Survival Ascended version on Steam and Epic Games.
10. Why was ARK free on the Epic Games Store?
ARK: Survival Evolved was offered for free on the Epic Games Store as a promotional strategy to attract new players and boost the game’s popularity.
11. Will ARK 2 be free for ARK owners?
No, there is no free upgrade path from the original ARK to ARK: Survival Ascended (the remaster), or ARK 2. Players will need to purchase these games separately.
12. Is ARK a laggy game?
ARK can be a laggy game, particularly if your computer doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements. Insufficient RAM, a weak graphics card, or a slow processor can all contribute to performance issues.
13. How long is one day in ARK in real-time?
By default, one day in ARK lasts approximately 40 minutes of real-time, while the night lasts around 20 minutes. So 24 hours in ARK equals 48 minutes
14. Why is ARK such a large game file size?
ARK’s large file size (often exceeding 200-400 GB) is due to its numerous expansion packs, high-resolution textures, and extensive content.
15. Is ARK a CPU or GPU intensive game?
ARK is more GPU-intensive than CPU-intensive. While a decent CPU is needed, the game relies heavily on the graphics card to render the world, dinosaurs, and effects. The game is also known to be poorly optimized.
The Enduring Appeal of Virtual Worlds
Ultimately, the “permanence” of ARK: Survival Evolved lies not just in its files or servers, but in the memories and experiences shared by its players. The stories, friendships, and rivalries forged in the ARK universe will endure long after the official servers are gone. This speaks to the power of virtual worlds to create lasting connections and impact lives.
For more insights into how games like ARK impact learning and community, visit the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The work done by the Games Learning Society will help us to better understand how to use games like ARK to improve education and community building.
Even though official servers have closed down, the ARK will always be with the players who enjoyed it.