ASA Bison by Wildcard
ARK: Survival Ascended is approaching another significant milestone. On June 2, 2025, several new features will be released: the popular map Ragnarok will be made available for ASA, and the upgrade to Unreal Engine 5.5 will take place simultaneously. Included are two new animals – the Griffin, known from earlier versions and for the first time breedable, as well as the new Bison, chosen by the community. The release brings technical improvements and content expansions that are likely to interest both veterans and new players.
Ragnarok – The Return of a Legend
Ragnarok is one of the most popular community maps from ARK: Survival Evolved and is now making its comeback in ASA. The map has been completely redeveloped in Unreal Engine 5.5 and will only be released with the engine upgrade. Due to the technical transition, the release was delayed, but the team has now confirmed June 2, 2025, as the final date.
Especially pleasing: The original developers of the map are back on board and are actively working on the implementation for ASA. The goal is to release the map in the usual high quality – with a mix of familiar landscapes and revised elements for the new technical foundation.
Below is the OLD ARK Survival Evolved release trailer for Ragnarok from 2017.
Unreal Engine 5.5 – Foundation for the Future
The upgrade to Unreal Engine 5.5 brings fundamental improvements that go far beyond visual representation. Noticeable improvements include shorter loading times, optimized rendering, and a modular structure for the game installation. In the future, maps outside of "The Island" will be offered as optional downloads, significantly reducing the storage requirements of the base installation.
For development, the new engine version means more efficient workflows and better tools. These advantages are expected to be reflected particularly in new maps like Ragnarok, Valguero, or Lost Colony. Older content could also benefit in the long term if individual features of the new engine are integrated retroactively.
A special focus is on mod compatibility. All premium mods and the most used free mods will be updated and tested on UE5.5 in advance. Technically problematic mods will be identified and adjusted in a timely manner if possible. Overwolf will handle the automatic "recook" procedure for all existing ASA mods.
Additionally, a "low-system mode" is planned, which will make the game playable on older PCs with GTX 1080 and 16 GB RAM – in a simplified but functional representation. This aims to make ARK accessible again for a wider range of hardware.
Griffin – Breedable and Ready for the Skies
The Griffin, half eagle, half lion, was already a fan favorite in earlier ARK versions. In ASA, it will not only return but also be breedable – a frequently expressed community wish. This opens up new possibilities for breeding lines, stats, and personalized mounts.
Its abilities remain impressively unchanged: aerial acrobatics, divebomb attacks, and the ability to carry two players at once. Those who can tame and breed a Griffin will gain a versatile companion for combat and exploration.
Bison – Powerhouse with Character
The Bison is the newest member of the ARK fauna and will be introduced with the Ragnarok release. The decision for this animal was made through a community vote. The Bison is a massive herbivore with high resilience and a distinctive appearance.
In addition to its obvious strength – such as when pushing back opponents – the Bison also offers useful abilities for survival in harsh environments. It is suitable for both defense and as a pack animal in difficult terrain.
