ASA: Genesis 1
On June 25, 2026, ARK: Survival Ascended will receive a comprehensive update that integrates the overhauled Genesis Part 1 map as well as the paid upgrade Tides of Fortune.
Ocean
According to Jeremy Stieglitz, co-founder of Studio Wildcard, Genesis Part 1 is not a simple port. The graphics and gameplay mechanics have been rebuilt from the ground up. A key innovation is the greatly expanded ocean area, which now forms almost a standalone map and allows for seamless underwater exploration. This is accompanied by the implementation of physically accurate water physics. Water now interacts dynamically with characters and vehicles, meaning storms generate high waves that hydrodynamically affect ships and rafts. If this system runs stably, there are plans to extend it to older maps like The Island in the second half of the year.
New Creatures
Octopus
The Paleo-Octopus has been announced as a new creature for Genesis Part 1. This massive creature, about the size of a medium-sized sailing ship, can climb walls vertically and grab objects as well as other creatures with its tentacles.
Axolotl
Additionally, Tides of Fortune brings the Axolotl to the game, which features a branching evolution system. If it remains in its juvenile form, it acts as a shoulder companion, distributing buffs to teammates. If it develops into an adult specimen, it reaches the size of a dolphin, becomes rideable, and offers specific abilities for underwater movement.
DLC: Tides Of Fortune
Alongside the free map, the paid upgrade Tides of Fortune will be released, expanding the game with a comprehensive system for large sailing ships. The update introduces three ship classes: the agile sloop, the medium-sized brigantine, and the heavily armed galleon. Drawing from their experience with the MMO Atlas, Wildcard opted against complex NPC crew management. Players can steer even large galleons on their own and fire entire rows of cannons at the push of a button. Alternatively, tribe members can manually operate individual cannons for more precise shots. The damage system has been simplified and is based on health points. Repairs occur automatically, provided the necessary materials are in the ship's resource containers. Ships can also be customized individually with structures.
Still No Pay-To-Win
Studio Wildcard emphasizes that Tides of Fortune does not introduce any pay-to-win mechanics. The expanded ocean area, AI fleets, and island fortresses are accessible to all players. The new ships and the Axolotl represent purely optional strategic additions. This monetization strategy through premium gameplay upgrades primarily serves to fund the development of ARK 2. Future maps will remain free of charge for owners of ARK: Survival Ascended.
For the next vehicle update, Stieglitz already teased spaceships and aerial combat with local gravity.
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