What Do I Need to Play ARK: Survival Evolved?
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ARK: Survival Evolved is a popular open-world survival game that throws players into a prehistoric world teeming with dinosaurs and other fantastical creatures. To fully enjoy this immersive experience, you’ll need the right hardware and a good understanding of the game’s mechanics. This article will detail exactly what you need to start your journey in ARK, covering everything from system requirements to essential beginner tips.
PC Requirements: Powering Your Survival
The first step in your ARK adventure is ensuring your computer can handle the game. Here’s what you need to play ARK: Survival Evolved on PC:
Minimum System Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions)
- Processor: Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better
- Memory (RAM): 8 GB
- Graphics Card (GPU): NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB or better
- DirectX: Version 10
- Storage: 60 GB available space
- Internet: Broadband connection for multiplayer
These are the bare minimum specs to run the game, but for a smoother experience, especially with higher graphics settings, you should aim higher.
Recommended System Requirements
While not officially listed, it’s widely recommended to have at least:
- Operating System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit versions)
- Processor: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen equivalent
- Memory (RAM): 16 GB or more
- Graphics Card (GPU): NVIDIA GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580 or better
- Storage: SSD with 100 GB or more available space
- Internet: Stable broadband connection
A powerful system will allow you to enjoy the game with higher frame rates, better visuals, and fewer performance issues. Keep in mind that ARK can be a demanding game, especially on high graphics settings.
Mobile Gaming: ARK on the Go
ARK: Survival Evolved also has a mobile version, allowing you to experience the game on your smartphone or tablet. Here’s what you need for mobile play:
iOS Requirements
- Device: iPhone 7 or newer
- RAM: 2 GB or more
- Storage: Approximately 2 GB download size
Android Requirements
- Device: Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+, S9/S9+, Note 8; Razer Phone; OnePlus 5/5T; Google Pixel 2/2 XL; Xiaomi Mi 6, Mi Mix 2, or similar device
- RAM: 3 GB or more
- Storage: Approximately 2 GB download size
The mobile version is designed to run at 30 FPS and includes the entire Island map and most of the creatures from the PC version. Cross-platform play between Android and iOS devices is also supported.
Understanding the Game: Essential Knowledge
Besides hardware, it’s crucial to grasp the core mechanics and concepts of ARK. Here’s some information that every player, especially beginners, should know:
Basic Gameplay
ARK is a survival game at its heart. You start with nothing and must gather resources, craft items, build shelters, tame dinosaurs, and survive the harsh environment.
Tips for New Players
- Avoid the Beach: Spawning on the beach can be dangerous. Explore inland as soon as you can for better resources and safer areas.
- Build a Base: Establishing a safe base is essential.
- Craft a Pickaxe: This will allow you to gather crucial early resources such as stone, flint, and wood.
- Stay Away from Glowing Dinos: These are stronger variants of regular creatures and pose a significant threat to early players.
- Tame a Dodo: Dodos are harmless and an easy first tame. They provide a useful source of meat and eggs early in the game.
- Make Friends: Socialization is key, particularly in multiplayer.
- Never Safe: Always be vigilant. Dangers lurk everywhere, from small scavengers to giant predators.
Single Player vs. Multiplayer
ARK offers both single-player and multiplayer options.
- Single-player allows you to play without worrying about other players. It’s a great way to learn the ropes.
- Multiplayer lets you team up with friends or strangers to conquer the world together, or you can engage in PvP (Player vs. Player) battles. You can also play in non-dedicated sessions, but be aware of the “tether” that limits how far away players can be from the host.
Key Items
Several items are crucial for success in ARK. These include:
- Vaults: For secure storage.
- Bola: To restrain creatures for taming.
- Simple Pistol: For a basic ranged weapon.
- Flak Armor: For high protection.
- Pike: For melee combat.
- Rocket Launcher: For powerful attacks (late game).
- Bow: For hunting and ranged attacks.
- Ghillie Armor: For stealth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that address various aspects of playing ARK: Survival Evolved:
1. Can I play ARK without an internet connection?
Yes, you can play single-player ARK offline. However, you will need an internet connection to download the game and any patches or updates.
2. Can my phone play ARK: Survival Evolved?
Yes, ARK is available on both Android and iOS mobile devices with cross-platform play. You must use a device with at least 2 GB of RAM (iOS) and 3 GB of RAM (Android), and a compatible model is recommended for optimal performance.
3. What are the main advantages of single-player ARK?
Single-player mode is an excellent way to learn the game’s mechanics without the pressure of other players. You can customize the difficulty settings to suit your playstyle.
4. How can I play ARK mobile with friends without a server?
You can play in a non-dedicated session. However, be aware of the “tether” that forces all players to remain close to the host.
5. What should I do first when starting in ARK?
Focus on gathering basic resources such as wood, stone, and fiber, craft a pickaxe and hatchet, and build a small base to secure your belongings and craft additional tools. Consider taming a Dodo early on for a steady supply of early resources.
6. Is ARK: Survival Evolved suitable for children?
The game does have violent elements, but the early game is suitable for children aged 7+. If you play online, there can be a risk of interacting with strangers; it is therefore important to supervise children and teach them about online safety.
7. What are some of the best items to have in ARK?
Some of the best items include the Vault, Bola, Simple Pistol, Flak Armor, Pike, Rocket Launcher, Bow, and Ghillie Armor.
8. Can my computer run an ARK server?
Yes, but your computer will need to meet specific requirements. At least 8 GB of RAM, 20 GB of storage, and a good CPU is needed for a small server. A more powerful system will be needed for more players.
9. Do you need a strong PC to run ARK?
Yes, especially if you want to run at high settings and achieve high frame rates. The minimum requirements allow for the game to run but may not provide a smooth or visually pleasing experience.
10. Is ARK free to play on PC?
Occasionally, the game is offered for free by platforms like Epic Games Store for a limited time. It is also a paid game that can be bought on Steam.
11. Is single-player ARK fun?
Many players find single-player mode highly enjoyable. You have complete control and can configure the game to your preferred experience.
12. Can I adjust settings in single-player mode?
Yes, you can customize many settings in single-player, including difficulty, resource gathering rates, and creature spawns. This flexibility enhances the single-player experience.
13. What is the main goal in ARK: Survival Evolved?
The goal is to survive in a harsh environment by crafting, building, taming creatures, and overcoming various challenges posed by the game.
14. Is ARK a hard game to play?
Yes, ARK can be challenging, especially in the beginning. There’s a learning curve, but it becomes manageable with time, knowledge, and experience.
15. How many dinosaurs are in ARK: Survival Evolved?
There are approximately 480 dinosaurs and creatures in ARK, including variants.
By understanding both the system requirements and gameplay mechanics, you’ll be well-prepared for your adventure in ARK: Survival Evolved. Remember to adapt to the challenges, learn from your mistakes, and, most importantly, have fun in this dynamic prehistoric world.