ARK: Survival Ascended is an open-world survival game developed by Studio Wildcard. It takes place on mysterious, artificially created worlds known as ARKs, massive, space-borne habitats designed to preserve life after a catastrophic event on Earth. These ARKs are home to a vast array of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, many of which have been genetically modified as part of a grand experiment overseen by an advanced civilization.
The game features multiple unique maps, each with distinct biomes, ecosystems, and dinosaur species. From volcanic landscapes and dense jungles to vast deserts and icy wastelands, every region offers valuable resources essential for progression. Whether choosing to collaborate with others or venture solo, players must adapt to the environment and make use of the resources available to thrive.
Taming and breeding dinosaurs are core mechanics, crucial for survival, efficient resource gathering, transportation, and protection against wildlife. These creatures also play a vital role in battling powerful end-game bosses, which unlock advanced gear and structures for further progression.
Studio Wildcard continues to expand the game by introducing new dinosaurs, with occasional community involvement in designing and voting on new creatures. They also regularly host events to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging, ensuring the game evolves with player input.
While ARK: Survival Ascended includes some eco-friendly mechanics, such as wind turbines for renewable energy and water tanks for sustainable storage, these aspects serve more as gameplay features rather than promoting real-world environmental values. The game focuses on resource exploitation and environmental domination rather than sustainability, encouraging players to gather materials endlessly, manipulate ecosystems, and tame wildlife for their advantage. Instead of fostering a balanced relationship with nature, ARK presents the environment as something to be conquered, making its eco-elements feel more like strategic mechanics than an intentional environmental message.