ARK: Survival Evolved is a captivating multiplayer survival game where players can tame dinosaurs, explore vast landscapes, and engage in epic battles. While playing on official servers is one option, many players prefer the freedom and customization offered by hosting their dedicated server. This article explores the differences and benefits of playing on dedicated servers versus engaging in multiplayer modes.
Key Takeaways
- Dedicated servers offer enhanced performance and stability, making the gameplay experience smoother and more reliable.
- Playing on dedicated servers provides greater control and customization options, allowing players to tailor the game to their preferences.
- Multiplayer modes in ARK: Survival Evolved foster social interaction and teamwork, creating opportunities for community building and cooperative gameplay.
Understanding ARK Survival Evolved Servers
ARK: Survival Evolved offers a variety of server options that cater to different playstyles and preferences. Whether you’re looking to join an existing server or host your own, understanding the types of servers available, how to host your own server, and the various configuration options can greatly enhance your gaming experience.
Benefits of Playing on Dedicated Servers
Enhanced Performance and Stability
When you opt for a dedicated server, you ensure that 100% of the server’s resources are dedicated to running the game and supporting the gameplay experience for your group. This means reduced delay during gameplay due to unrestricted access to bandwidth resources. Your gameplay will run more seamlessly as you are not depending on random party hosts to support your Ark lobby. Additionally, you are less likely to be the target of a cyberattack because the only things on your server are Ark gaming software and the software to run your server.
Greater Control and Customization
A dedicated server provides more control and personalized options compared to standard servers offered by the game developers. You can scale the resources of your server to adjust the size of your party. This hosting arrangement allows you to configure your ARK precisely to your liking, from enabling or disabling specific game features to setting custom rules and events. By simply scaling the resources of their server, players can adjust the size of their party.
Community Building and Events
Playing on a dedicated server fosters a sense of community among players. You can host community events, create custom challenges, and build a loyal player base. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to create a long-term gaming environment where players can form alliances, trade resources, and participate in server-wide activities. The ability to host and manage your own server also allows for greater flexibility in organizing special events and themed activities, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
A dedicated server may be the better option, but there are some scenarios where players may opt for non-dedicated. It all comes down to your desired gaming experience.
Multiplayer Experience in ARK Survival Evolved
Social Interaction and Teamwork
In ARK: Survival Evolved, multiplayer mode offers a rich social experience. You can form tribes with other players, which allows for shared resources, coordinated attacks, and collective defense strategies. Meeting new people and bonding over shared goals can make the game more enjoyable and immersive. Communication is key, and ARK provides various tools like proximity text and voice chat, as well as long-distance radio for effective teamwork.
Challenges and Risks
Playing in multiplayer mode comes with its own set of challenges and risks. One of the main risks is the potential for losing your loot to other players, especially in PvP (Player vs. Player) servers. Additionally, the game world is persistent, meaning your character and belongings remain in the game even when you’re offline. This can make you vulnerable to attacks and theft. However, these challenges add a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the game.
PvP vs PvE Multiplayer Modes
ARK offers both PvP and PvE (Player vs. Environment) multiplayer modes. In PvP, you can engage in combat with other players, raid their bases, and steal their resources. This mode is highly competitive and requires strategic planning and alliances. On the other hand, PvE mode focuses on surviving against the game’s environment and AI-controlled creatures. Here, the emphasis is on cooperation and community building rather than competition.
Whether you prefer the thrill of PvP or the cooperative nature of PvE, ARK’s multiplayer modes offer something for everyone. Choose the mode that best suits your playstyle and dive into the adventure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ARK: Survival Evolved offers a rich and diverse gameplay experience whether you choose to play on a server or in multiplayer mode. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. Servers provide a more controlled and stable environment, ideal for those who want to customize their gameplay and avoid interruptions. On the other hand, multiplayer mode offers a dynamic and social experience, allowing players to form alliances, engage in battles, and explore the ARK together. Ultimately, the choice between server and multiplayer will depend on your personal preferences and gaming objectives. Both modes offer unique opportunities to immerse yourself in the captivating world of ARK: Survival Evolved.
