Ark: Survival Ascended – DLC or Standalone Title? The Definitive Answer
No, Ark: Survival Ascended (ASA) is NOT a DLC (Downloadable Content) for Ark: Survival Evolved (ASE). It is a completely separate game, a full remake of the original built from the ground up using Unreal Engine 5. While it includes access to content previously released as DLC for ASE, it is a standalone product that must be purchased separately. Think of it as a reimagining and upgrade, rather than an add-on.
Understanding the Difference: ASA vs. ASE DLC
The confusion often arises because ASA includes remastered versions of content that were originally sold as DLC for Ark: Survival Evolved, like Scorched Earth. However, the key is that these are rebuilt within the new ASA engine and are integral parts of the ASA experience, not simply added on. The original DLCs for ASE remain separate purchases for ASE. ASA bundles this content into its core experience, and will release additional remastered DLC over time, available to ASA players at no extra charge (with the exception of one all-new, future DLC).
Why the Remake Matters: The Unreal Engine 5 Upgrade
The most crucial factor distinguishing ASA from a mere DLC is its foundation in Unreal Engine 5. This engine provides vastly improved graphics, physics, and gameplay mechanics compared to the original Ark: Survival Evolved. It’s not just a texture pack; it’s a complete overhaul. Lighting, water effects, and dinosaur models are all dramatically enhanced, creating a more immersive and visually stunning experience. This upgrade also allows for improvements in server performance, modding capabilities, and overall game stability.
A New Game, a Familiar World
Think of it as a fresh start for the Ark franchise. While the core gameplay loop of taming dinosaurs, building bases, and surviving the elements remains familiar, the visual and technical improvements make it a distinct experience. For veterans of Ark: Survival Evolved, it’s a chance to revisit a beloved game with a new level of fidelity. For new players, it’s the definitive way to experience the world of Ark with modern gaming technology. Learning is also significantly enhanced through the new mechanics and visuals, a concept that has been thoroughly researched by the Games Learning Society whose work explores the intersection of learning, gaming, and other forms of digital entertainment. You can check out their work at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Is Ark Ascended Worth It?
Whether or not ASA is “worth it” depends on your personal preferences. If you are happy with the original Ark: Survival Evolved, you are not obligated to buy the new version. However, if you want to experience Ark with cutting-edge graphics, improved performance, and cross-platform modding, then Ark: Survival Ascended is a worthwhile investment. It is a significantly enhanced version of a well-loved title.
Ark: Survival Ascended FAQs
1. Will Ark Ascended include all ASE DLCs?
Yes, all maps and content from Ark: Survival Evolved, including Scorched Earth, Aberration, Extinction, Genesis Part 1, and Genesis Part 2, will eventually be available in Ark: Survival Ascended. They are being released over time as they are remastered. Only a brand new DLC is planned for separate purchase in the future.
2. Is Ark 2 and Ark Ascended the same game?
No, Ark 2 and Ark: Survival Ascended are NOT the same. Ark: Survival Ascended is a remake of the original Ark: Survival Evolved, while Ark 2 is a separate sequel with a completely new storyline, setting, and gameplay mechanics. Ark Ascended serves as a testbed for Unreal Engine 5, likely the same engine that Ark 2 will use.
3. When will all the maps be available in Ark Ascended?
The Island and Scorched Earth (remastered) were available at launch. Aberration is aimed for Q4 2023. Ragnarok and other maps are scheduled for release in Q1 2024 and beyond. The specific release dates are subject to change based on development progress.
4. Will there be new dinosaurs in Ark Ascended?
Yes! Ark: Survival Ascended supports cross-platform modding through CurseForge, allowing players to add new dinosaurs, structures, maps, and game modes to the game. Expect a steady stream of new content created by the community.
5. Why was the release of Ark Ascended delayed on consoles?
The console release was delayed due to critical issues found in the multiplayer version of the game. This delay allowed the developers to address and fix these issues, ensuring a smoother launch for console players.
6. How much does Ark: Survival Ascended cost?
The initial price was reduced from $60 to $45. There was also a $5 discount for players who purchased the remaster on its day of launch.
7. Will Ark Ascended have cross-platform modding?
Yes, Ark: Survival Ascended features cross-platform modding support through Overwolf and CurseForge. This means that PC-created mods will be compatible with consoles, allowing a wider range of players to enjoy community-created content.
8. Is Ark Ascended on PS4 or Xbox One?
No, Ark: Survival Ascended is only available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The game’s enhanced graphics and performance require the power of next-generation consoles.
9. What is God mode in Ark Survival Evolved and will it be in Ark Ascended?
God Mode is a command that makes the player invulnerable to most forms of damage, including attacks from creatures and other players. It protects from explosions and falls but not drowning, hunger, thirst and environmental factors. Whether it will be exactly the same in Ark Ascended remains to be seen, but similar admin commands are expected.
10. Will I need to repurchase all the DLCs I own for ASE to play them in ASA?
Yes, even if you own all the DLCs for Ark: Survival Evolved, you will need to purchase Ark: Survival Ascended separately. The DLCs are being rebuilt within the new engine, so they are not simply transferred over. However, once you buy ASA, the remastered DLC content comes at no extra cost (except the new, unreleased DLC planned for later.)
11. What maps are available in Ark Ascended at launch?
At launch, The Island and Scorched Earth (remastered) were available. The subsequent expansion worlds are added at no additional cost on a regular basis.
12. What is the main goal of Ark Ascended?
The main goal of Ark: Survival Ascended remains similar to Ark: Survival Evolved: to survive, tame dinosaurs, build bases, craft items, and explore the world. The added goal, with the new engine, is to showcase the world in better fidelity than ever before. Players also eventually work towards ascension by defeating bosses.
13. How can I get ascended in Ark?
Survivors can ascend in Ark by defeating the final bosses on each map. For example, on The Island, you must defeat the Overseer. On Aberration, you must defeat Rockwell. And on Extinction, you must defeat the King Titan.
14. Is Ark 2 going to be a survival game?
Yes, Ark 2 will be a survival game, but with an expanded focus on storytelling and character development. The game will feature a new storyline and setting, and will focus on a team of heroes confronting powerful dark forces.
15. Where can I buy Ark Ascended?
Ark: Survival Ascended is available for purchase on Steam (for PC). It is also available on the PlayStation Store (for PS5) and the Microsoft Store (for Xbox Series X/S).