ARK: Survival Evolved is a popular action-adventure survival game developed by Studio Wildcard. Players find themselves stranded on a mysterious island filled with dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. The game is available on multiple platforms, each offering a unique experience. Whether you prefer playing on PC, console, or mobile, ARK: Survival Evolved has a platform for you. In this article, we will explore the best platforms to play ARK: Survival Evolved on, highlighting their features and benefits.
Key Takeaways
- ARK: Survival Evolved offers a diverse range of platforms including PC, consoles, and mobile devices, catering to different player preferences.
- Each platform provides a unique experience, whether it’s the modding capabilities on Steam, the convenience of playing on the go with iOS and Android, or the immersive gameplay on consoles.
- Choosing the right platform depends on your gaming style and preferences, with options ranging from high-end graphics on PC to portability on mobile devices.
1. Steam
Steam is one of the most popular platforms to play Ark: Survival Evolved, offering a robust and versatile gaming experience. With Steam, you have access to a wide array of features that enhance your gameplay.
2. Xbox One
Playing Ark Survival Evolved on Xbox One offers a solid and immersive experience. The game was released on Xbox One on December 16, 2015, and has since been a popular choice for console gamers. One of the key advantages of playing on Xbox One is the seamless integration with the Xbox Live network, which allows for easy multiplayer sessions and communication with friends.
Cross-Platform Play
Ark Survival Evolved supports cross-platform play between the Win10 version and Xbox. This means you can team up with friends who are playing on a Windows 10 PC, making it a versatile option for multiplayer gaming. However, it’s important to note that crossplay is not available with PlayStation or other platforms.
Performance
The game runs relatively well on Xbox One, though you might experience occasional frame rate drops and longer loading times compared to more powerful consoles like the Xbox Series X|S. Despite these minor issues, the overall gameplay experience remains enjoyable and engaging.
Updates and Support
Studio Wildcard continues to provide updates and support for the Xbox One version of Ark Survival Evolved. This includes regular patches, new content, and events that keep the game fresh and exciting. The community is active, and you’ll find plenty of players to join in your adventures.
Ark Survival Evolved on Xbox One is a great way to experience the game, especially if you have friends on the same platform or on Windows 10. The cross-platform play feature adds a layer of flexibility that enhances the multiplayer experience.
3. PlayStation 4
ARK: Survival Evolved on PlayStation 4 offers a solid and immersive experience for console gamers. Released on December 6, 2016, the game has been optimized to run smoothly on the PS4 hardware, providing a visually appealing and engaging gameplay experience. However, it’s important to note that the PS4 version does not support cross-platform play. This means you can only play with other PS4 users, which might be a limitation if your friends are on different platforms.
4. Nintendo Switch
Playing Ark Survival Evolved on the Nintendo Switch offers a unique experience, especially if you enjoy gaming on the go. The Switch version of Ark was released on November 30, 2018, and it brings the full survival adventure to a portable console. While the graphics and performance may not match those of more powerful platforms, the ability to play anywhere is a significant advantage.
Performance
The Nintendo Switch version of Ark runs at a lower resolution and has simplified textures compared to other platforms. This is necessary to ensure smooth gameplay on the Switch’s hardware. Despite these compromises, the game remains fully playable and retains all core features.
Portability
One of the biggest selling points of playing Ark on the Switch is its portability. You can take your adventure with you wherever you go, whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just lounging at home. This flexibility makes it easier to invest time in the game without being tied to a stationary console or PC.
Multiplayer
Ark on the Nintendo Switch supports both local and online multiplayer. You can team up with friends in the same room or connect with players worldwide. However, it’s worth noting that the online experience may vary depending on your internet connection and the performance of the Switch’s online services.
Updates and Support
The Switch version receives updates, but they may not be as frequent or as extensive as those on other platforms. This is something to consider if you want the latest features and improvements as soon as they are available.
The Nintendo Switch version of Ark Survival Evolved is perfect for players who prioritize portability and convenience over cutting-edge graphics and performance. If you love the idea of surviving in a prehistoric world while on the move, this version is definitely worth considering.
5. Epic Games Store
The Epic Games Store is another excellent platform to play Ark Survival Evolved. One of the main advantages of using the Epic Games Store is the frequent promotions and discounts, which can make the game more affordable. Additionally, the platform often offers free games, and Ark Survival Evolved has been featured as a free title in the past.
Key Features
- Cross-Platform Play: You can play with friends on other platforms, including Steam and consoles.
- Mod Support: While not as extensive as Steam Workshop, the Epic Games Store does support mods for Ark Survival Evolved.
- Regular Updates: The game receives regular updates and patches, ensuring a smooth gaming experience.
System Requirements
| Component | Minimum Requirements | Recommended Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit) | Windows 10 (64-bit) |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 | Intel Core i5-4670K/AMD Ryzen 5 1500X |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM | 16 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB | NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB |
| Storage | 60 GB available space | 60 GB available space |
The Epic Games Store provides a robust platform for Ark Survival Evolved, offering features like cross-platform play and mod support, making it a solid choice for both new and veteran players.
6. Stadia
Stadia offers a unique way to play Ark: Survival Evolved, leveraging cloud gaming technology to deliver a seamless experience. With Stadia, you don’t need a high-end gaming PC or console; all you need is a stable internet connection. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the game without investing in expensive hardware.
Performance
One of the standout features of playing Ark on Stadia is the performance. The game runs on powerful servers, ensuring smooth gameplay and high-quality graphics. You won’t have to worry about hardware limitations affecting your experience.
Accessibility
Stadia allows you to play Ark on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and TVs. This flexibility means you can start a game on your TV and continue it on your phone without missing a beat. The platform also supports cross-play, so you can team up with friends regardless of the device they’re using.
Updates and Maintenance
With Stadia, updates and maintenance are handled server-side. This means you won’t have to wait for long downloads or deal with installation issues. The game is always up-to-date, allowing you to jump right into the action.
Stadia’s cloud-based approach makes it one of the most convenient platforms for playing Ark: Survival Evolved, especially for those who prefer a hassle-free gaming experience.
7. iOS
Playing ARK: Survival Evolved on iOS offers a unique experience tailored for mobile gamers. The game is available exclusively on the App Store for iPhone and iPad, ensuring a smooth and optimized performance for Apple devices. The iOS version retains the core elements of the game, allowing you to survive, tame, and ride over 80 creatures in a primeval world.
Performance
The iOS version of ARK: Survival Evolved is designed to run efficiently on modern Apple devices. However, it’s important to note that the game requires a significant amount of resources. Devices with at least 3 GB of RAM are recommended for the best experience. The game supports both single-player and multiplayer modes, providing flexibility in how you choose to play.
Controls
The touchscreen controls on iOS are intuitive and responsive, making it easy to navigate the game’s complex mechanics. You can customize the control layout to suit your preferences, ensuring a comfortable gaming experience. The game also supports external controllers, offering an alternative for those who prefer a more traditional gaming setup.
Graphics
While the graphics on iOS may not match the high-end visuals of PC or console versions, they are still impressive for a mobile game. The developers have done an excellent job of optimizing the game to run smoothly while maintaining a visually appealing environment. Expect detailed textures, dynamic lighting, and a rich, immersive world.
Data Safety
Safety starts with understanding how developers collect and share your data. The iOS version of ARK: Survival Evolved ensures that no data is shared with third parties. Data collected includes app activity, app info and performance, and device or other IDs. All data is encrypted in transit, but it’s worth noting that data cannot be deleted once collected.
The iOS version of ARK: Survival Evolved is a solid choice for mobile gamers who want to experience the thrill of surviving in a primeval world. With its optimized performance, intuitive controls, and impressive graphics, it stands out as a top platform for playing ARK on the go.
8. Android
ARK: Survival Evolved is available on Android, making it accessible to a wide range of mobile gamers. The game is officially supported on touchscreen Android devices with at least 3 GB of RAM and up-to-date Vulkan support. This ensures a smooth gaming experience for most modern devices. However, some devices may still face compatibility issues, which the developers are working to resolve.
Performance
The performance of ARK: Survival Evolved on Android can vary depending on your device’s specifications. High-end devices will offer a more seamless experience, while older or less powerful devices might struggle with frame rates and loading times. It’s crucial to have a device that meets the minimum requirements to enjoy the game fully.
Controls
Playing ARK on Android involves touchscreen controls, which can take some getting used to if you’re accustomed to playing on a console or PC. The game offers customizable control settings, allowing you to adjust the layout to better suit your play style. This flexibility can make the game more enjoyable and easier to navigate.
In-App Purchases
The Android version of ARK: Survival Evolved includes in-app purchases. These can range from cosmetic items to resources that can help you progress faster in the game. While not necessary to enjoy the game, they can enhance your experience if you’re willing to spend a little extra.
The Android platform offers a convenient way to play ARK: Survival Evolved on the go, but it’s essential to ensure your device is compatible and meets the minimum requirements for the best experience.
Conclusion
In summary, ARK: Survival Evolved offers a versatile gaming experience across multiple platforms, each with its unique advantages. Whether you prefer the high-end graphics and modding capabilities of PC, the seamless integration and community features of consoles like Xbox One and PS4, or the portability of the Nintendo Switch, there is a platform that suits your gaming style. Each platform provides a different way to experience the vast, dynamic world of ARK, ensuring that players can find the best fit for their preferences and play with friends across various devices. Choose the platform that aligns with your needs and dive into the primeval adventure that ARK: Survival Evolved has to offer.
