How to Play ARK: Survival Evolved with Friends

“ARK: Survival Evolved” is an enthralling action-adventure survival game that becomes even more engaging when played with friends. The game’s multiplayer mode allows players to team up, share resources, and conquer the prehistoric world together. Whether you’re looking to build a thriving community or embark on epic dinosaur hunts, playing with friends can significantly enhance your gaming experience. This comprehensive guide will help you get started with playing “ARK: Survival Evolved” with friends, covering everything from setting up a server to optimizing your multiplayer experience.

Setting Up Your Multiplayer Game

Choosing the Right Server

The first step to playing “ARK: Survival Evolved” with friends is choosing the right server. You have several options:

• Official Servers: These are hosted by the game developers and provide a standard gameplay experience. However, they can be crowded and have strict rules.
• Unofficial Servers: These are hosted by players or third-party providers and offer more flexibility in terms of settings and mods. They can be private or public.
• Dedicated Servers: If you want complete control over your gaming environment, you can host your own dedicated server. This option requires more technical knowledge but provides the most customization.

For a seamless experience with friends, an unofficial or dedicated server is often the best choice. You can adjust the settings to suit your group’s preferences and ensure a lag-free experience.

Setting Up a Dedicated Server

Setting up a dedicated server allows you to customize every aspect of your game. Here’s a basic outline of the steps involved:

1. Install the Server Software: Download the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server software from Steam or the official website.
2. Configure the Server: Customize the server settings, including player limits, difficulty levels, and resource rates. This can be done through configuration files or a server management tool.
3. Port Forwarding: Ensure that the necessary ports are open on your router to allow friends to connect.
4. Share the Server Details: Provide your friends with the server IP and any passwords required to join.

For a more detailed guide on setting up a dedicated server, you can refer to Apex Hosting.

Inviting Friends to Join

Joining a Server

Once your server is set up, your friends can join by following these steps:

1. Launch the Game: Open ARK: Survival Evolved from your Steam library or game launcher.
2. Select “Join ARK”: From the main menu, select the “Join ARK” option.
3. Filter the Server List: Use the filters to find your server. You can filter by server name, map, and other criteria.
4. Enter Server Details: If your server is private, enter the IP address and password provided by the host.

Using Steam Friends List

A convenient way to invite friends is through the Steam friends list:

1. Open the Friends List: Press Shift + Tab to open the Steam overlay and access your friends list.
2. Invite to Game: Right-click on your friend’s name and select “Invite to Game.” This will send them an invitation to join your session.

Coordinating Gameplay

Communication

Effective communication is key to a successful multiplayer experience. Here are some tools you can use:

• In-Game Voice Chat: ARK offers built-in voice chat, which can be accessed by pressing the B key.
• Third-Party Voice Chat: Tools like Discord, TeamSpeak, or Skype provide more reliable and higher-quality voice communication.
• Text Chat: Use the in-game text chat to send messages to your friends. Press the Enter key to open the chat window.

Division of Tasks

To maximize efficiency and enjoyment, consider dividing tasks among your group. Here are some roles you can assign:

• Resource Gatherer: Focuses on collecting essential materials like wood, stone, and metal.
• Builder: Constructs and upgrades the base, ensuring it’s well-defended and functional.
• Tamer: Specializes in taming and managing dinosaurs, providing valuable assets for the group.
• Explorer: Scouts new areas, gathers intelligence, and finds rare resources.

By assigning roles, you can ensure that all aspects of survival are covered and that everyone has a specific purpose.

Enhancing the Multiplayer Experience

Using Mods

Mods can significantly enhance your gameplay experience by adding new content, improving mechanics, and introducing quality-of-life features. Some popular mods include:

• Structures Plus (S+): Adds advanced building features and structures.
• Dino Storage v2: Improves dinosaur management and storage.
• Classic Flyers: Restores the original flying mechanics for dinosaurs.

To install mods, subscribe to them on the Steam Workshop and ensure that all players in your group have the same mods installed.

Hosting Events

Hosting in-game events can add excitement and variety to your multiplayer sessions. Some ideas include:

• Dino Races: Set up a track and race your tamed dinosaurs for fun and prizes.
• PvP Battles: Organize friendly player-vs-player combat scenarios to test your skills.
• Resource Hunts: Create scavenger hunts where players search for specific resources or items.

These events can foster camaraderie and provide a break from the routine of survival.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Connection Problems

If you or your friends encounter connection issues, try the following solutions:

• Check Server Status: Ensure the server is online and accessible.
• Update the Game: Make sure all players have the latest game updates installed.
• Verify Server Details: Double-check the server IP and password.
• Restart the Game: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connection issues.

Performance Issues

To improve game performance, consider these tips:

• Adjust Graphics Settings: Lowering the graphics settings can help reduce lag and improve frame rates.
• Optimize Network Settings: Ensure that your internet connection is stable and that no other devices are consuming excessive bandwidth.
• Upgrade Hardware: If possible, consider upgrading your PC components to meet the game’s recommended specifications.

Conclusion

Playing “ARK: Survival Evolved” with friends can transform the game into an unforgettable adventure filled with teamwork, strategy, and excitement. By setting up the right server, coordinating tasks, and enhancing your experience with mods and events, you can create a thriving community and conquer the prehistoric world together. Whether you’re building a fortress, taming powerful dinosaurs, or exploring uncharted territories, the shared experiences and memories you create with friends will make your journey in ARK truly special. So gather your tribe, prepare your gear, and embark on an epic survival adventure like no other.