ARK: Survival Evolved offers a variety of maps, each with its own unique environment, challenges, and creatures. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned survivor, exploring these maps can provide countless hours of adventure and excitement. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best maps in ARK: Survival Evolved, highlighting their key features and what makes them stand out.
Key Takeaways
- The Island is beginner-friendly with diverse regions and lower-level creatures, making it ideal for new players.
- Scorched Earth introduces a harsh desert environment with unique challenges such as extreme temperatures and scarce resources.
- Aberration offers a subterranean world filled with bioluminescent creatures and hazardous environments, providing a unique survival experience.
1. The Island
The Island is the first base map in Ark Survival Evolved and is often considered the best map by many players. It features five large mountains in the north and flat plains in the south, making it relatively easy to learn and navigate. All the resources are spread out in a way that is quite obvious, so you won’t have much trouble figuring out where to find each item. The outer area of the island is relatively safe, but the inner island can be tough to manage, though still doable.
2. Scorched Earth
Scorched Earth is a true test of survival skills, pushing players to adapt to an arid desert wasteland. This map is not for the faint-hearted. Here, you will face extreme heat, scarce water sources, and a variety of dangerous creatures. The environment is harsh, but it also offers unique biomes and resources that make the struggle worthwhile.
Key Features
- Arid Desert Environment: The primary challenge is surviving the extreme heat and finding water. Building near an oasis or an obelisk can be a lifesaver.
- Unique Creatures: Encounter creatures like the Wyvern, Manticore, and Rock Elemental, which are exclusive to this map.
- Electrical Storms: These can disable electronics and make base defense more challenging.
- Explorer Notes: Discover hidden lore and gain experience boosts by finding these scattered notes.
Survival Tips
- Water Management: Always carry water containers and build near water sources when possible.
- Heat Protection: Use cloth armor and build shelters to protect against the heat.
- Resource Gathering: Focus on gathering resources like oil and crystal, which are abundant here.
- Creature Taming: Tame creatures that can help you survive the harsh conditions, like the Morellatops for water storage.
Boss Battle: The Manticore
The Manticore is the boss of Scorched Earth and is considered one of the easier bosses to farm. However, it still requires careful planning and preparation. Make sure to bring strong tames and plenty of supplies.
Scorched Earth is a superb addition to ARK’s map list and a worthy consideration for any gamer looking to start a new map. The unique challenges and rewards make it a memorable experience.
3. Aberration
Aberration is the most unique map entry on this list, boasting an eerie, dark, and dangerous world compared to other maps that usually show off bright, blooming biospheres. Everywhere you step in Aberration leaks deadly radiation, as the internal atmosphere of the world has leaked away. Rather than an island, the majority of Aberration consists of enclosed underground biomes, which means carrying around a Compass or GPS to avoid getting lost in the dark pathways might be a good idea.
Due to the radiation in the map, specific locations will cause damage over time to players that aren’t wearing Protective Gear, so make sure you come prepared. The surface is toxic and laden with deadly radiation, meaning much of the gameplay takes place in interesting new underground biomes, each of which is bursting with its own unique character. From fertile underground forests to glowing bioluminescent regions and the deep, dark, and dangerous molten areas, home to terrifying creatures never seen before.
- Several new creatures are added to Aberration, including luminous beasts, the “Nameless”, and probably the most powerful creature, the “Reaper King”.
- Aberration is a new type of map with underground cave systems that serve as hiding places from radioactivity.
- A variety of new tools and other items such as batteries, railguns, and explosive ammunition.
- Abnormal temperatures, earthquakes, and radioactive zones are elements you have to face on Aberration.
Hazard Suits against the radiation, Glow Sticks for more visibility in the dark caves, and a railgun are exemplary tools to ensure your survival.
4. Extinction
Extinction is a post-apocalyptic map that brings a unique twist to Ark Survival Evolved. The map is heavily focused on tek elements, which can be a hit or miss depending on your preferences. However, it offers several features that make it stand out from other maps.
Unique Creatures
On Extinction, you’ll encounter many new and scary creatures. The Titans are particularly noteworthy, as they guard the overgrown and abandoned city called Sanctuary. Additionally, the map features corrupted creatures, which are infected by Element, making them extremely aggressive.
Environmental Challenges
The map introduces several environmental challenges that keep you on your toes. These include temporary eclipses, meteor showers that can destroy creatures and structures, and orbital supply drops. The wasteland setting adds to the difficulty, making survival a constant struggle.
Resource Availability
Extinction offers a decent amount of metal and other resources. You can find unlimited sulfur southwest of the city, which is great for your burning instincts. The map also provides plenty of build spots, although some underground areas are restricted for building.
Tek and Element Farming
One of the highlights of Extinction is that it’s the easiest map for farming element and tek gear. The Titans also offer the easiest way to unlock some tekgrams, making it a go-to map for players focused on tek advancements.
Extinction is not just another map; it’s a comprehensive challenge that tests your survival skills in a post-apocalyptic setting. Whether you’re into tek or just looking for a new adventure, Extinction has something to offer.
Proto-ARKs
The map houses three proto-ARKs, adding another layer of complexity and exploration. These areas are rich in lore and offer unique challenges and rewards.
If you’re looking for a map that combines environmental challenges, unique creatures, and abundant resources, Extinction is a must-try. Just be prepared for the aggressive corrupted creatures and the constant environmental threats.
5. Genesis: Part 1
Genesis: Part 1 is a unique addition to the ARK universe, offering a mission-based gameplay experience that sets it apart from other maps. This map is divided into five distinct biomes, each with its own challenges and resources. You’ll find yourself navigating through the Bog, Arctic, Ocean, Volcanic, and Lunar biomes, each presenting unique environmental hazards and creatures.
Mission-Based Gameplay
Genesis: Part 1 introduces a mission system that provides structured objectives for players. These missions range from simple fetch quests to complex combat challenges. Completing missions rewards you with Hexagons, a currency that can be used to purchase resources and items from the in-game store.
Unique Biomes
- Bog: A swampy area filled with dangerous creatures and hidden threats.
- Arctic: A frozen wasteland where survival is a constant battle against the elements.
- Ocean: An underwater paradise teeming with marine life and hidden treasures.
- Volcanic: A fiery landscape dominated by lava flows and volcanic eruptions.
- Lunar: A low-gravity biome with unique challenges and extraterrestrial creatures.
New Creatures
Genesis: Part 1 introduces several new creatures to the ARK universe. Some of the most notable additions include the Ferox, a small creature that transforms into a giant beast when fed Element, and the Bloodstalker, a spider-like creature that can swing through the trees and latch onto enemies.
In-Game Store
The in-game store allows you to spend Hexagons earned from missions to buy resources, items, and even tames. This feature adds a new layer of strategy, as you can prioritize which items to purchase based on your immediate needs.
Genesis: Part 1 offers a fresh take on the ARK experience with its mission-based gameplay and diverse biomes. Whether you’re exploring the depths of the Ocean biome or battling the harsh conditions of the Arctic, this map provides endless opportunities for adventure.
6. Genesis: Part 2
Genesis: Part 2 came through for ARK fans where its predecessor faltered, truly embracing its identity as a tek-focused map and becoming all the better for it. Tek is accessible from the very start, allowing players to index into it quickly, and it applies the signature ARK grind to other parts of the progression, so it still feels authentic.
7. Crystal Isles
Crystal Isles is a visual feast for any Ark player. Spanning 150 square kilometers, it is one of the largest maps available. The map is composed of various islands, each with its own unique environment and biome. From lush jungles to snowy tundras, pristine beaches to volcanic areas, Crystal Isles has it all.
The Great Valley
The Great Valley is a vast region of tropical forest and marshland, located on the southeast corner of the map. This area is teeming with life, making it a great spot for taming and resource gathering.
Eldritch Isle
If you want a real treat for the senses, head on over to the Eldritch Isle—an island constantly engulfed in darkness and thunder with floating water bubbles and an abundance of rare resources.
Apotheosis
One of the most alluring features present in the Crystal Isles is the network of floating islands called the Apotheosis. You can reward yourself by building your base here, in the skies, while then being able to take in the stunning view that comes along with it.
Crystal Isles is one of the preferred maps for most ARK players due to its diverse environments and stunning visuals.
8. Valguero
Valguero is a visually stunning map that offers a diverse range of biomes within its 63 square kilometers of explorable area. While not the largest map, its beauty and variety make it a favorite among players. From rainbows and nighttime auroras to shooting stars, the map is filled with breathtaking sights. The terrain is ever-changing, providing an engaging experience for explorers.
Unique Features
- Skeleton Gorge: An ominous area filled with skeletal remains, adding a sense of mystery and danger.
- Lost Temple: This feature opens the path to challenging underground caverns, perfect for those seeking adventure.
Resources and Creatures
- Plenty of Resources: The map is rich in resources, making it easier for players to gather what they need.
- High-Level Creatures: Creatures on Valguero tend to spawn at higher levels, with 140+ being quite common.
- Ice and Chalk Golems: Unique to this map, these golems add an extra layer of challenge.
Versatility
Valguero is versatile, catering to both single-player and PVP modes. Its varied terrains and high-level creatures make it an excellent choice for taming and building.
Valguero’s combination of beauty, diversity, and challenge makes it one of the best maps in ARK: Survival Evolved.
9. Ragnarok
Ragnarok is a map that was built with the clear goal of building in mind, which clearly shows as the map is unanimously loved by players for building bases in many iconic locations such as the repurposable ruins, the large plateaus, or Viking Bay containing beaches which possess their very own built-in storage caves.
Ragnarok also has a ton of other unique features found in it, such as an active volcano that erupts to cause raining meteors and flows of lava. If you walk along the beaches, you can often find Basilosaurus corpses scattered across the shores.
Occasional storms, a volcano that can erupt and let meteorites rain down, and geysers are just three of the included highlights on Ragnarok. The map also includes several new creatures, including the Griffin. A graceful mythical creature in the form of a chimera of an eagle and a lion.
Ragnarok is the all-around package when it comes to Ark maps, fitting in an unimaginably large amount of content into a map that is 2.5x the size of The Island in terms of land mass, and approximately four times in total size. These calculations don’t even account for the brilliant, wide-ranging cave networks and significantly large dungeons inside of Ragnarok.
Ragnarok is a popular and free ARK Survival Evolved DLC map. Having been released way back on June 12, 2017, it was the second DLC map of the game and is 2.5 times the size of The Island.
10. Fjordur
Fjordur is the latest addition to the ARK Survival Evolved DLC maps, released on June 12, 2022. This free-to-play map is a non-canonical expansion that brings a unique Norse mythology theme to the game. Spanning 140 square kilometers, Fjordur is significantly larger than The Island, which is only 40 square kilometers. The map features four new creatures: Fjordhawk, Desmodus, Andrewsarchus, and the mysterious Fenrir, all chosen by the ARK community.
Unique Features
Fjordur offers a variety of unique features that set it apart from other maps. The map is divided into four islands: Vardiland, Vannaland, Bolbjord, and Balheimr. Each island offers a breathtaking landscape and a unique set of challenges. Additionally, Fjordur includes three realms—Jotunheim, Vanaheim, and Asgard—that are connected and accessible via portals.
New Creatures
The new creatures in Fjordur add an extra layer of excitement to the game. Fjordhawk, Desmodus, Andrewsarchus, and Fenrir each bring unique abilities and challenges. For instance, the Desmodus is a giant bat that can be tamed and used for aerial combat, while the Andrewsarchus is a versatile mount that excels in both land and water.
Boss Battles
Fjordur introduces four new bosses: Steinbjorn, Beyla, Hati and Skoll, and Fensúlfr. These bosses offer challenging battles that require strategic planning and teamwork. Defeating these bosses can yield valuable rewards and resources, making them a key part of the Fjordur experience.
Environmental Challenges
The map is not just about new creatures and bosses; it also presents various environmental challenges. From blizzards and extreme freezing temperatures to northern lights and endless caves, Fjordur has a lot in store for you. These challenges make survival more difficult but also more rewarding.
Fjordur perfectly lived up to the hype it built ever since it was teased in the Lost Island trailer. Each of the realms in the map gel perfectly into the game, providing a new exploration experience that will keep even the most seasoned players entertained.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the diverse and expansive maps in Ark: Survival Evolved offer players a wide range of environments and challenges to explore. From the beginner-friendly terrain of The Island to the unique biomes and mechanics of maps like Aberration and Extinction, each map provides a distinct experience that caters to different playstyles and preferences. Whether you are looking to tame exotic creatures, uncover hidden secrets, or engage in epic battles, the maps in Ark: Survival Evolved ensure that every adventure is both thrilling and memorable. As the game continues to evolve, players can look forward to even more exciting maps and features that will further enhance their survival journey.
