Valguero - Release 30. September 2025
With Valguero Ascended, ARK: Survival Ascended will receive another map on September 30, 2025, which is already known from the ASE version. The release was originally scheduled for the end of August but has been postponed by about a month.
The map is based on the ASE version but also brings new creatures to the ASA version. In addition to familiar Valguero-specific animals like the Deinonychus and the variant-rich Golems (Chalk Golem, Ice Golem), the Megaraptor will also be included, along with the new Elderclaw as a paid Fantastic Tame. The latter will be included at launch at no additional cost in the ARK: Lost Colony Expansion Pass and will be available separately later.
Valguero encompasses over 63 km² of land and water area with eight biomes, including forests, snowfields, savannas, lava flows, and an Aberration-inspired underground area. Additionally, there is an extensive underwater sea, numerous caves and ruins, as well as a boss arena where Megapithecus, Manticore, and Dragon can be fought simultaneously. Another special element on the map is an open world boss – the Broodmother Lysrix – which can be too simple in certain areas without entering an arena.
Valguero was originally a mod project and was later officially integrated into ARK. The original developers were ButtMan, Nekatus, Trappel22, and Evolanca. It has now been confirmed that Nekatus is once again involved in the implementation for the ASA version, in addition to his work on the new map Astreos.
It is currently unconfirmed whether the ASA version of Valguero will receive new features compared to ASE. Based on previous adjustments to other maps (e.g., The Center, Ragnarok), it is suspected that there could be minor changes – such as new caves. However, there is no official information on this.
Megaraptor
The Megaraptor was chosen by the community and complements the map as a fast, agile hunter. It combines high mobility with pronounced hunting ability and is particularly interesting for players who want to combine speed and striking power.
Elderclaw
The Elderclaw is a completely new creature in ARK and part of the Fantastic Tames series. It is not a historical or prehistoric animal but a newly developed fantasy creature. Its design is inspired by the concept of a "forest guardian" – a mix of a large predator and a nature-bound mythical being. Visual features like vines, flowers, and wood-like armor emphasize its connection to nature.
In combat, the Elderclaw can use roots, vines, and totem-like structures to slow down or weaken opponents while simultaneously supporting allies. This combines offensive strength with defensive capabilities. Thematically, it resembles mythical nature spirits from Celtic or Norse legends, where guardian figures protect the balance of the forest.
In its appearance and the way it uses nature as a weapon, the Elderclaw bears certain similarities to the Forest Titan from the Extinction map. While the Forest Titan is a gigantic boss enemy, the Elderclaw appears as a smaller, tamable counterpart with comparable plant and root powers, optimized for use as a companion.
Taming is not done through traditional methods but by raising rare young creatures. These must be cared for over an extended period to gain the Elderclaw's trust. Players who successfully complete this process will receive a resilient companion that can be used both for protection and support in battles.
The Elderclaw thematically fits particularly well with the forest regions of Valguero and the Aberration-inspired cave biomes found there, where its camouflage and abilities with vines and roots could be especially effective.
The Elderclaw will be released simultaneously with Valguero Ascended, is included in the Lost Colony Expansion Pass, and will later be available separately as a Fantastic Tame.
Deinonychus
The Deinonychus is a feathered, agile theropod that clings to prey with its sickle-shaped claws and does not let go even in battle. It can only be found on Valguero.
Chalk Golem and Ice Golem
These variants of the classic rock golem are each adapted to their environment. Chalk Golems are harder to spot in bright, rocky areas, while Ice Golems can deal additional frost damage in cold biomes.
Official Link to the Community Crunch: Community Crunch 470: First Look at Elderclaw! - Announcements - ARK - Official Community Forums
NOTE: The videos of Valguero are from the ASE version and will be replaced as soon as current ASA versions become available.
