ARK II by Wildcard
With Lost Colony, not only is an exciting story DLC for ARK: Survival Ascended on the horizon – it is also the springboard into the future of the franchise. Initial features and story elements from ARK 2 are already making their way in, while the new game is slowly taking shape with modern technology, expanded gameplay systems, and cinematic presentation. A new chapter begins – and the transition is already in full swing.
Lost Colony – The Gateway to the Future of ARK
With Lost Colony, the first major story DLC for ARK: Survival Ascended is on the horizon. The expansion takes players to Arat Prime, the origin of the ARKs, opening a new chapter in the game universe. In addition to new creatures, mysterious biomes, and fresh building locations, it will also introduce initial gameplay elements that were originally planned for ARK 2 – including a revamped melee combat system with dodging, blocking, and skill trees. This could make Lost Colony not only an exciting DLC but also a direct bridge between ASA and the upcoming sequel.
There are increasing indications that ARK 2 is much closer than many have previously assumed. Developed on the powerful Unreal Engine 5.5, ARK 2 is set to offer a completely new gaming experience – featuring a Soulslike combat system, parkour mechanics, and a significantly overhauled building system. Although there is currently no official release date, statements from the developers and the conceptual structure of Lost Colony suggest that the transition phase has been deliberately initiated. ARK 2 may still be in the shadows – but it is getting closer.
Release Date and Platforms
ARK 2 was originally announced for late 2024, but the release has since been postponed indefinitely. A specific release date is still pending. What is certain is that ARK 2 will first be released exclusively for Xbox Series X|S and PC – other platforms may follow at a later date. This clearly indicates that Studio Wildcard continues to work closely with Microsoft.
Gameplay and New Features
ARK 2 is being developed on the Unreal Engine 5 and promises a variety of profound innovations:
- Combat System: A completely overhauled melee combat system with Soulslike elements, including blocking, dodging, countering, and combo attacks.
- Mobility: New movement options such as free climbing, parkour, swinging, and gliding are set to make the world even more dynamic.
- AI & Environment: A significantly improved AI reacts to sight, sound, and smell. Additionally, dynamic events and weather effects will make the game world more vibrant and challenging.
- Crafting System: Players can modularly assemble weapons, armor, and tools – for more individuality in the struggle for survival.
- Modding: The modding community can look forward to extensive support – including cross-platform modding via mod.io.
Story and Characters
The story of ARK 2 directly follows the events of Genesis: Part 2. The setting shifts to the new planet Arat, where survivors must once again assert themselves. Hollywood star Vin Diesel takes on the role of Santiago – a clone of the namesake hero from the original ARK story. Diesel also serves as Executive Producer, thus being directly involved in the creative development.
The connection to ARK: Survival Ascended remains intact: Lost Colony serves as a narrative link between the two games. It can be assumed that players will encounter initial hints, story elements, and mechanics there that will play a significant role later in ARK 2.
Conclusion
With Lost Colony and the consistent development towards ARK 2, exciting times lie ahead for all ARK fans. While Survival Ascended shines with technical updates and new creatures, Studio Wildcard is laying the groundwork for a completely new gaming experience behind the scenes. ARK 2 promises not only evolutionary improvements – but a true revolution of the gameplay principle, or one might lose the entire familiar 3D game mechanics and end up with a pretty jump & run game... The future will tell.
