ARK: Survival Evolved is a highly popular open-world survival game that has captivated players since its early access release in 2015. Developed by Studio Wildcard, the game offers a rich experience filled with dinosaur taming, crafting, and exploration. However, one of the most frequently asked questions by new and existing players alike is: How big is the game with all its downloadable content (DLC)? This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of ARK’s file size across different platforms, the impact of its numerous DLCs, and how players can manage storage effectively.
Key Takeaways
- ARK: Survival Evolved’s file size varies significantly across different platforms, with the PC version requiring the most storage space, often exceeding 200 GB with all DLCs installed.
- The addition of major DLC packs like ‘Scorched Earth,’ ‘Aberration,’ and ‘Extinction’ substantially increases the game’s storage requirements, making it essential to manage disk space effectively.
- Regular updates and patches have both optimized and expanded the game, affecting its overall size and performance across various devices.
File Size on Different Platforms
When it comes to ARK: Survival Evolved, the file size can vary significantly depending on the platform you’re using. This is crucial to consider, especially if you’re managing limited storage space on your device.
Impact of DLCs on Game Size
Major DLC Packs
Ark: Survival Evolved has seen numerous DLC packs over the years, each adding substantial content and increasing the game’s file size. Some of the major DLCs include Scorched Earth, Aberration, Extinction, and Genesis. Each of these expansions introduces new maps, creatures, and gameplay mechanics, which contribute to the overall size of the game. For instance, the Genesis DLC alone adds several gigabytes to the game’s footprint.
Cumulative Storage Impact
When you combine all the DLCs, the game’s file size is getting too big for many players. A player with all the paid and free DLCs, along with some mods, can see their game directory balloon to over 200GB. This is significantly larger than most games on Steam. Here’s a quick look at the cumulative storage impact:
| DLC Pack | Approximate Size |
|---|---|
| Scorched Earth | 10 GB |
| Aberration | 15 GB |
| Extinction | 20 GB |
| Genesis | 30 GB |
Managing Storage
Managing storage for Ark can be a challenge, especially if you’re running low on disk space. Here are some tips to help you manage:
- Uninstall Unused DLCs: If you don’t play certain DLCs, consider uninstalling them to free up space.
- Use External Storage: Invest in an external SSD to store your game files.
- Regular Cleanups: Periodically check and remove any unnecessary mods or files.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t own certain DLCs, the files for the maps and other content are still in your directory. This can make managing storage even more critical.
By following these steps, you can better manage the storage impact of Ark’s extensive DLC offerings.
Optimization and Updates
Patch History
ARK: Survival Evolved has undergone numerous patches since its release, each aimed at improving performance and fixing bugs. These updates often include optimizations for both PC and console versions, addressing issues like memory leaks, graphical glitches, and server stability. For instance, the introduction of the -USEALLAVAILABLECORES command line option allows the game to utilize all CPU cores, significantly enhancing performance. Additionally, patches have introduced options like -nomemorybias to reduce memory usage, which can be particularly beneficial for systems with limited RAM.
Performance Improvements
Over time, the developers have implemented several performance improvements to make the game run smoother. Here are some key enhancements:
- Memory Optimization: The
-nomemorybiasoption reduces client game memory usage by about 600 MB system and 600 MB GPU RAM. - CPU Utilization: The
-USEALLAVAILABLECOREScommand line option ensures that all CPU cores are used, improving overall performance. - Faster Loading Times: The
-usecacheoption can speed up loading times by approximately 70%, making the game more responsive.
Future Expectations
Looking ahead, players can expect continued support and updates from the developers. Future patches are likely to focus on further optimizations, especially as new hardware becomes available. It’s reasonable to anticipate that upcoming updates will continue to refine the game’s performance, ensuring that ARK: Survival Evolved remains a staple in the survival game genre. Additionally, as technology advances, we might see more sophisticated optimizations that leverage new hardware capabilities, such as ray tracing and advanced AI algorithms.
Managing storage and performance can be a balancing act, but with the right settings and updates, you can enjoy a smoother gaming experience.
Conclusion
In summary, ARK: Survival Evolved is a massive game that continues to grow with each new DLC and update. The base game alone requires a significant amount of storage space, and when combined with all available DLCs, the total file size can exceed 300 GB on some platforms. This expansive file size is a testament to the game’s rich content, diverse environments, and the extensive range of creatures and features it offers. Players should ensure they have ample storage space and consider the ongoing updates when planning to install and play ARK: Survival Evolved. Despite its large size, the game’s immersive experience and endless possibilities make it a worthwhile addition to any gamer’s library.
