ARK: Survival Ascended News

This week, the team is focused on bringing Valguero Ascended across the finish line and into your hands. In the meantime, enjoy a glimpse at the epic Lost Colony story cinematic, brought to life by MAPPA, the renowned studio behind some of anime’s most striking worlds!

Download in full resolution

While we won’t be able to host our usual 24-hour Extra Life livestream this year, we’re still going all-in on what matters most: uniting as a community to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and unlocking something special for the future of ARK: Survival Ascended.

For every $30,000 raised through the Studio Wildcard Extra Life charity campaign, the community will unlock a Dino TLC pass to be released throughout 2026, breathing new life into a classic creature of the ARK with updated gameplay and style. Up to four TLCs can be unlocked at the $120,000 milestone!

1. ⚌ Giganotosaurus
   
2. [color]🡅[/color] Araneo
   
3. [color]🡇[/color] Megalosaurus
   
4. ⚌ Quetzalcoatlus
   
5. ⚌ Thylacoleo
   
6. ⚌ Brontosaurus
   
7. ⚌ Carnotaurus
   
8. [color]🡅[/color] Allosaurus
   
9. [color]🡇[/color] Plesiosaur
   
10. [color]🡅[/color] Pachycephalosaurus
    

[h2][color]Donate now[/color] to any team member [color]listed here[/color] to ensure your vote counts![/h2]



When donating to anyone on the Studio Wildcard Extra Life Team, not just Studio Wildcard directly, include a message with your chosen creature’s full first name preceded by a hashtag, like this (we’ll do our best to identify typos, but try to spell them correctly!):

• #Giganotosaurus
  
• Hello #Giganotosaurus
  
• Please give #Giganotosaurus a TLC!
  

If no hashtag vote is included in the donation message, the donation will still count towards the TLC total, but it won’t advance any particular dino’s voting tally.

• Every $1 donated = 1 vote
  
• A $50 donation with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus
  
• Five $10 donations with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus (10 x 5)
  

To keep the vote balanced and consistent, eligible creatures must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a creature from The Island
  
• Must be tameable
  
• Must be rideable or a shoulder pet
  
• Must not have previously received a TLC pass
  
• The following creatures have already had a TLC pass and are not eligible:
  • Argentavis
    
  • Dire Bear
    
  • Direwolf
    
  • Gigantopithecus
    
  • Mammoth
    
  • Parasaur
    
  • Procoptodon
    
  • Raptor
    
  • Tyrannosaurus Rex
    
  • Sabertooth
    
  • Sarcosuchus
    
  • Spinosaurus
    
  • Stegosaurus
    
  • Triceratops

[color]To accommodate the new launch date of Valguero Ascended, we have adjusted the reveal dates.[/color]

• November 14 – First Winner
  
• November 21– Second Winner
  
• November 28 – Third Winner
  
• December 4 – Final Winner
  

[color]Starting October 31st thru November 10th[/color], we’ll be rolling out a selection of the community’s favorite dino colors on the official network, along with a sweet twist in place of the traditional boosted donation rates. For the event, you’ll be able to dig into Cake Slices that grant hefty bonuses to:

• Taming
  
• Breeding
  
• Imprinting
  
• EXP
  
• Harvesting
  

Our next Community Creature submission will take place in the simulated biomes of Genesis Part 1! From the crushing depths of the ocean trenches and volcanic hellscapes to the desolate lunar surfaces and treacherous bogs, this unique map offers an unparalleled variety of habitats for your real-world prehistoric creature to call home.

Start brainstorming your creature concepts and prepping those designs now, as submissions will open [color]October 10th[/color]. We’re excited to see how your creature adapts to the challenges of the simulation.

• The entry period will end at 1 PM Pacific on October 24th.
  
• The voting will begin immediately after and end on November 4th at 1 PM Pacific.
  
• The winner will be announced in the Crunch of November 7th.
  

Please note that this creature will be released for Genesis Part 1, so make sure your real-world submissions are thematically suited to the map’s diverse environments. We’re always blown away by the creativity and passion the community brings to creature submissions and we can’t wait to see what wild things you’ll unleash this time around!



Transfers for The Volcano and Lost City modded servers will be opening next week! For simplicity, we’ll be rolling them out alongside the Valguero Ascended launch on [color]October 7th[/color].

Get your gear packed—new adventures await!



If you’re transferring or ascending to another server with an Armadoggo or Veilwyn in Companion Mode, be sure to exit Companion Mode first. Leaving it active may cause issues during the transfer.

This weekend, the Official Network will be receiving bonus rates! It will be active until [color]Monday, October 6[/color].

• [color]PVP/PVE:[/color] 2x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience, and Breeding
  
• [color]Small Tribes: [/color]4.5x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience + 4x Breeding
  
• [color]ARKpocalypse:[/color] 5x Harvesting, Taming and Experience, and Breeding
  

Fan Art Gallery | Screenshot Gallery | Artist Feedback Form



[color]Creator[/color]: Raasclark
Raasclark and the Monarks defeat Ragnarok's boss using only Phiomias... and maybe a really good sword.
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]

[color]Creator[/color]: Etholdir
Ever wondered how to build your base from ruins? Look no further, Etholdir has just the tutorial for you!
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]



Summer by @falco_luna


Autumn has arrived in Japan by yuukuro07


Fan art by darkspark789


Fan art by littlestminnow


Custom Dossiers by MortgageEuphoric6527


Hope itself by @TekARK_01


3D Printed ARK Logo by jtstar




Paleo ARK is cooking by frozen_soap


Emperor of the sun by dromey


Photo Mode by neomauve


Arklantis Inspiration build by jen_zen


Happy Spooktober by mystickorea


[h3]Enjoy your weekend!
Studio Wildcard[/h3]

Twitter: twitter.com/survivetheark
Discord: discord.com/invite/playark
Reddit: reddit.com/r/playark
Instagram: instagram.com/survivetheark
Twitch: twitch.tv/survivetheark
Steam: steamcommunity.com/app/346110
Youtube: youtube.com/survivetheark
Facebook: facebook.com/survivetheark
Threads: threads.net/@survivetheark
Official Wiki: ark.wiki.gg

Survivors, we need just a little more time to get things right. [color]Valguero Ascended and Fantastic Tames: Elderclaw[/color] have been delayed by one week, and will now launch on [color]October 7th[/color] as the team focuses on final polish and stability. We know waiting is tough, and we appreciate your patience as we work to deliver the best experience possible and set the stage for an unforgettable return to Valguero.

As we make final preparations, we couldn’t resist sharing a glimpse at one of the fiercest additions coming your way: the Elderclaw! Born of the wild itself, this towering forest guardian is both protector and predator, a primal force bound to the heart of the forest.

Download in full resolution



[previewyoutube]MODSPOLIGHTLINK[/previewyoutube]

Download & play new custom content created by players, including new maps, creatures, items, and game modes, through a dedicated new Mod-browser directly within the game. Enjoy an endless stream of new ARK content as the creativity and talent of the community is fully unleashed for the first time across gaming platforms and stay tuned as we spotlight more Cross-Platform Mods each week!

This video features:

• Lost Protocol Premium Map by j26Arkitecto (premium)
  
• Movie Night Decor Cosmetics! by Beyonx (premium)
  
• Barn by Ribbet (premium)
  
• Lutralix by Lutralix
  
• Vaults & Storages Catalogue by Fernandess
  
• Paleo ARK EVO+ Native Aquatics - Bungartius Update by Team Paleo ARK
  
• ARKOLOGY: OE - Hapipalus by Dragonheart7998
  
• ClaysRexEdit by TheClay_Art
  
• ClayLeedsichthysEdit by TheClay_Art
  

While we won’t be able to host our usual 24-hour Extra Life livestream this year, we’re still going all-in on what matters most: uniting as a community to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and unlocking something special for the future of ARK: Survival Ascended.

For every $30,000 raised through the Studio Wildcard Extra Life charity campaign, the community will unlock a Dino TLC pass to be released throughout 2026, breathing new life into a classic creature of the ARK with updated gameplay and style. Up to four TLCs can be unlocked at the $120,000 milestone!

1. ⚌ Giganotosaurus
   
2. ⚌ Megalosaurus
   
3. ⚌ Araneo
   
4. ⚌ Quetzalcoatlus
   
5. ⚌ Thylacoleo
   
6. ⚌ Brontosaurus
   
7. [color]🡅[/color] Carnotaurus
   
8. [color]🡇[/color] Plesiosaur
   
9. [color]🡇[/color] Megalodon
   
10. [color]🡅[/color] Ankylosaurus
    

[h2][color]Donate now[/color] to any team member [color]listed here[/color] to ensure your vote counts![/h2]



When donating to anyone on the Studio Wildcard Extra Life Team, not just Studio Wildcard directly, include a message with your chosen creature’s full first name preceded by a hashtag, like this (we’ll do our best to identify typos, but try to spell them correctly!):

• #Giganotosaurus
  
• Hello #Giganotosaurus
  
• Please give #Giganotosaurus a TLC!
  

If no hashtag vote is included in the donation message, the donation will still count towards the TLC total, but it won’t advance any particular dino’s voting tally.

• Every $1 donated = 1 vote
  
• A $50 donation with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus
  
• Five $10 donations with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus (10 x 5)
  

To keep the vote balanced and consistent, eligible creatures must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a creature from The Island
  
• Must be tameable
  
• Must be rideable or a shoulder pet
  
• Must not have previously received a TLC pass
  
• The following creatures have already had a TLC pass and are not eligible:
  • Argentavis
    
  • Dire Bear
    
  • Direwolf
    
  • Gigantopithecus
    
  • Mammoth
    
  • Parasaur
    
  • Procoptodon
    
  • Raptor
    
  • Tyrannosaurus Rex
    
  • Sabertooth
    
  • Sarcosuchus
    
  • Spinosaurus
    
  • Stegosaurus
    
  • Triceratops

• November 7 – First Winner
  
• November 14 – Second Winner
  
• November 21 – Third Winner
  
• November 28 – Final Winner

[color]Starting October 31st thru November 10th[/color], we’ll be rolling out a selection of the community’s favorite dino colors on the official network, along with a sweet twist in place of the traditional boosted donation rates. For the event, you’ll be able to dig into Cake Slices that grant hefty bonuses to:

• Taming
  
• Breeding
  
• Imprinting
  
• EXP
  
• Harvesting
  

[h3][color]ASA Build Template Contest Winners have now been chosen![/color][/h3]
[color]Four winning builds will be added as official in-game templates for everyone to use.[/color]

[color]Prizes[/color]

• 2 Community Winner – chosen by popular vote
  
• 2 Wildcard Winner – hand-picked by the Studio
  

All four winning builds will be added as official in-game templates. Plus, as an added little bonus, each winner will receive a Lost Colony Expansion Pass!



Frontier Cabin by FreyaB


Luxurious Residential Base by ジャムおやじ




All-in-one Base by 青之スピノサウルス


Rustic Dino Stable by Jin



If you’re transferring or ascending to another server with an Armadoggo or Veilwyn in Companion Mode, be sure to exit Companion Mode first. Leaving it active may cause issues during the transfer.



Amazon is updating its certificate signing system, which will impact the Epic Online Services (EOS) SDK starting October 1. While this may not affect most players, Epic recommends ensuring your Windows system is fully up to date to avoid potential issues.

To help prevent any disruptions, Epic suggests the following steps (in order of ease):

• Update and run the Epic Games Launcher (if installed) — a new mitigation feature will be added in the coming weeks.
  
• Install the latest Windows Updates to ensure the required root certificate is present.
  
• Manually install the certificate by running this command in a Command Prompt window: https://account-public-service-prod03.ol.epicgames.com/account/
  

We’ll continue to monitor the situation and share more information as needed.


Our next Community Creature submission will take place in the simulated biomes of Genesis Part 1! From the crushing depths of the ocean trenches and volcanic hellscapes to the desolate lunar surfaces and treacherous bogs, this unique map offers an unparalleled variety of habitats for your real-world prehistoric creature to call home.

Start brainstorming your creature concepts and prepping those designs now, as submissions will open in the coming weeks. We’re excited to see how your creature adapts to the challenges of the simulation.

Please note that this creature will be released for Genesis Part 1, so make sure your real-world submissions are thematically suited to the map’s diverse environments. We’re always blown away by the creativity and passion the community brings to creature submissions and we can’t wait to see what wild things you’ll unleash this time around!

This weekend, the Official Network will be receiving bonus rates! It will be active until [color]Monday, September 29[/color].

• [color]PVP/PVE:[/color] 2x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience, and Breeding
  
• [color]Small Tribes: [/color]4.5x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience + 4x Breeding
  
• [color]ARKpocalypse:[/color] 5x Harvesting, Taming and Experience, and Breeding
  

Fan Art Gallery | Screenshot Gallery | Artist Feedback Form



Creator: SigmaTech72
In this mod spotlight, SigmaTech72 takes a closer look at the Hapipalus, part of the Overseer's Experiments Collection, by DragonHeart7998. Find out everything you need to know about this mutated Spinosaurus!
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]

Creator: Songbird Gaming
Do you want a simple little trick you can use to break up the pattern of big stone walls on your next castle build? Songbird has a solution for you!
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]



Autumn by @falco_luna


Fan Art by chara._.dreemurr


Procoptodon by nfttori


Danger Noodle by zombeastin49


Bird by jaxoj


Sleeping Megalosaurus by DarkSpark789


Fan Art by camo4546




Come with me by jokerthedragon

Photo Mode by frozen_soap


Photo Mode by tomboynerdy


Photo Mode by leraptorsauvage


Photo Mode by cosmicman5455


[h3]Enjoy your weekend!
Studio Wildcard[/h3]

Twitter: twitter.com/survivetheark
Discord: discord.com/invite/playark
Reddit: reddit.com/r/playark
Instagram: instagram.com/survivetheark
Twitch: twitch.tv/survivetheark
Steam: steamcommunity.com/app/346110
Youtube: youtube.com/survivetheark
Facebook: facebook.com/survivetheark
Threads: threads.net/@survivetheark
Official Wiki: ark.wiki.gg

The hunt begins September 30!

Chosen by players, the Megaraptor makes its debut on Valguero Ascended with one goal: domination. Watch your backs, Survivors. This relentless hunter is ready to claw its way to the top of the food chain.

The shadows? They’ll never be safe again.

Download in full resolution

[previewyoutube]MOD SPOTLIGHT LINK[/previewyoutube]
Download & play new custom content created by players, including new maps, creatures, items, and game modes, through a dedicated new Mod-browser directly within the game. Enjoy an endless stream of new ARK content as the creativity and talent of the community are fully unleashed for the first time across gaming platforms, and stay tuned as we spotlight more Cross-Platform Mods each week!

This video features:

• Paleo Ark EVO+: Rulers of the Wastelands by Team Paleo ARK
  

While we won’t be able to host our usual 24-hour Extra Life livestream this year, we’re still going all-in on what matters most: uniting as a community to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and unlocking something special for the future of ARK: Survival Ascended.

For every $30,000 raised through the Studio Wildcard Extra Life charity campaign, the community will unlock a Dino TLC pass to be released throughout 2026, breathing new life into a classic creature of the ARK with updated gameplay and style. Up to four TLCs can be unlocked at the $120,000 milestone!

1. [color]🡅[/color] Giganotosaurus
   
2. [color]🡅[/color] Megalosaurus
   
3. [color]🡇[/color] Araneo
   
4. [color]🡅[/color] Quetzalcoatlus
   
5. [color]🡇[/color] Thylacoleo
   
6. [color]🡇[/color] Brontosaurus
   
7. [color]🡅[/color] Plesiosaur
   
8. [color]🡅[/color] Megalodon
   
9. [color]🡅[/color] Carnotaurus
   
10. [color]🡅[/color] Compy
    

[h2][color]Donate now[/color] to any team member [color]listed here[/color] to ensure your vote counts![/h2]



When donating to anyone on the Studio Wildcard Extra Life Team, not just Studio Wildcard directly, include a message with your chosen creature’s full first name preceded by a hashtag, like this (we’ll do our best to identify typos, but try to spell them correctly!):

• #Giganotosaurus
  
• Hello #Giganotosaurus
  
• Please give #Giganotosaurus a TLC!
  

If no hashtag vote is included in the donation message, the donation will still count towards the TLC total, but it won’t advance any particular dino’s voting tally.

• Every $1 donated = 1 vote
  
• A $50 donation with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus
  
• Five $10 donations with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus (10 x 5)
  

To keep the vote balanced and consistent, eligible creatures must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a creature from The Island
  
• Must be tameable
  
• Must be rideable or a shoulder pet
  
• Must not have previously received a TLC pass
  
• The following creatures have already had a TLC pass and are not eligible:
  • Argentavis
    
  • Dire Bear
    
  • Direwolf
    
  • Gigantopithecus
    
  • Mammoth
    
  • Parasaur
    
  • Procoptodon
    
  • Raptor
    
  • Tyrannosaurus Rex
    
  • Sabertooth
    
  • Sarcosuchus
    
  • Spinosaurus
    
  • Stegosaurus
    
  • Triceratops

• November 7 – First Winner
  
• November 14 – Second Winner
  
• November 21 – Third Winner
  
• November 28 – Final Winner

[color]Starting October 31st thru November 10th[/color], we’ll be rolling out a selection of the community’s favorite dino colors on the official network, along with a sweet twist in place of the traditional boosted donation rates. For the event, you’ll be able to dig into Cake Slices that grant hefty bonuses to:

• Taming
  
• Breeding
  
• Imprinting
  
• EXP
  
• Harvesting
  

[h2][color]Final Voting is Now Live for the ASA Build Template Contest![/color][/h2]

Now it’s your turn to help shape the future in-game templates!

[color]Competition Timeline[/color]

• Winners Announced in the Crunch: Friday, September 26, 2025
  

[color]Prizes[/color]

• 2 Community Winner – chosen by popular vote
  
• 2 Wildcard Winner – hand-picked by the Studio
  

All four winning builds will be added as official in-game templates. Plus, as an added little bonus, each winner will receive a Lost Colony Expansion Pass!

[color]How to Vote[/color]

Below are the buildings that have made it into the final 10. Find out more information about the creature by clicking on the hyperlink attached to the name in the list below the voting panel. Cast your vote here!




Mini Taj Mahal by Miss Jen Zen


Luxurious Residential Base by ジャムおやじ


Big Dodo by つくもの お壱


Frontier Cabin by FreyaB


Big Cat by つくもの お壱


All-in-one Base by 青之スピノサウルス


Timberrest by Altair


Magical Tower Base by Songbird


Rustic Dino Stable by Jin


Modern Single Story by Dread



If you’re transferring or ascending to another server with an Armadoggo or Veilwyn in Companion Mode, be sure to exit Companion Mode first. Leaving it active may cause issues during the transfer.


Our next Community Creature submission will take place in the simulated biomes of Genesis Part 1! From the crushing depths of the ocean trenches and volcanic hellscapes to the desolate lunar surfaces and treacherous bogs, this unique map offers an unparalleled variety of habitats for your real-world prehistoric creature to call home.

Start brainstorming your creature concepts and prepping those designs now, as submissions will open in the coming weeks. We’re excited to see how your creature adapts to the challenges of the simulation.

Please note that this creature will be released for Genesis Part 1, so make sure your real-world submissions are thematically suited to the map’s diverse environments. We’re always blown away by the creativity and passion the community brings to creature submissions and we can’t wait to see what wild things you’ll unleash this time around!
[color]ARKpocalypse servers have been wiped today![/color]

[color]What is ARKpocalypse?[/color]

• ARKpocalypse are monthly-wipe servers with higher than usual rates.
  
• Next wipe: [color]October 17th, 2025[/color]

You can join them by typing "Arkpocalypse" in the server browser! Happy Surviving!



This weekend, the Official Network will be receiving bonus rates! It will be active until [color]Monday, September 22[/color].

• [color]PVP/PVE:[/color] 2x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience, and Breeding
  
• [color]Small Tribes: [/color]4.5x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience + 4x Breeding
  
• [color]ARKpocalypse:[/color] 5x Harvesting, Taming and Experience, and Breeding
  

Fan Art Gallery | Screenshot Gallery | Artist Feedback Form



[color]Creator: Phlinger Phoo[/color]
Phlinger Phoo makes his list of the best creatures tp tame as a solo player on ASA!
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]

[color]Creator: Savkyn[/color]
Follow this step-by-step tutorial to learn how to build this breathtaking base yourself, and be ready when the map drops!
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]



Maybe don’t put your seekers on their back? They’d probably get stuck! by lunarsiren


New members by @sushii_okomeko


When I learnt Archa gliding isn't safe from Rex roars... by Az


Winter by @falco_luna


Mei Yin & Diana by rainesaur


Ark Values Ep1 Part1 by Ermerus


No one will ever guess who my favorite character is (it’s obvious I fear) by dovethecat




I just watched Alien by dinokiller120


Photo Mode by shadowqauntlet


Cool roar by packer5.0


The beginning of legends by loganthewyrmlord


Photo Mode by tomboynerdy


Enjoy your weekend!
Studio Wildcard

Twitter: twitter.com/survivetheark
Discord: discord.com/invite/playark
Reddit: reddit.com/r/playark
Instagram: instagram.com/survivetheark
Twitch: twitch.tv/survivetheark
Steam: steamcommunity.com/app/346110
Youtube: youtube.com/survivetheark
Facebook: facebook.com/survivetheark
Threads: threads.net/@survivetheark
Official Wiki: ark.wiki.gg

Shell we get this party started? Prepare for some righteous action in ARK!

Download in full resolution


The next ARKpocalypse wipe kicks off September 19, and this time it’s back to basics. ARKpocalypse will now run as a mod-free experience, a throwback to the raw survival challenge of classic ARK.

We’re excited to see this retro-style ARKpoc make its comeback.



If you’re transferring or ascending to another server with an Armadoggo or Veilwyn in Companion Mode, be sure to exit Companion Mode first. Leaving it active may cause issues during the transfer.

Engineers are continuing to work on the fix with high priority and we hope to set it live soon.


[previewyoutube]MODSPOLIGHTLINK[/previewyoutube]
Download & play new custom content created by players, including new maps, creatures, items, and game modes, through a dedicated new Mod-browser directly within the game. Enjoy an endless stream of new ARK content as the creativity and talent of the community is fully unleashed for the first time across gaming platforms and stay tuned as we spotlight more Cross-Platform Mods each week!

This video features:

• Shiba Doggo Skins by RodrigoCunha (premium)
• Modern Glass by Kokou_kohiro (premium)
• Patio Furniture Structure Skins by Genade92
  
• Chinaes_Structure_Skin by 1050695222
  
• Doro Pistol Cosmetics by Shina_Lena
  
• Giao Long by Xumbrai
  
• More Yuty’s by Izurichan93
  
• Obsidian Equipment by Jojosef
  
• Quetzal Turret Saddle by Shinygati
  

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]
Unleash your imagination and transform your ARK experience with our latest premium mods!

This video features:

• Lanthanum’s Custom Cosmetics: Modern Military Vol.1 - Infantry by Lanthanum
  
• Advanced Weapons Premium by Troyar_ARK
  

[h2]Voting is Now Live for the ASA Build Template Contest! [/h2]

We’ve seen some incredible entries so far, and now it’s your turn to help shape the future in-game templates!

To vote

• Head over to the ⁠#asa-build-contest on the Official ARK Discord.
  
• React with the golden check mark on the thread of the build you like best
  
• You can vote on as many builds as you want, but only reactions with the special golden check mark count!
  

The top 10 eligible builds with the most golden check mark reactions by Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 5:00 PT will move on to the final round of public voting, which kicks off in the Crunch of Friday, September 19, 2025.

Competition Timeline

• Discord Voting end: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 5:00 PT
  
• Finalists Announced in the Crunch and Final Voting starts: Friday, September 19, 2025
  
• Winners Announced in the Crunch: Friday, September 26, 2025
  

Prizes

• 2 Community Winner – chosen by popular vote
  
• 2 Wildcard Winner – hand-picked by the Studio
  

All four winning builds will be added as official in-game templates. Plus, as an added little bonus, each winner will receive a Lost Colony Expansion Pass!


While we won’t be able to host our usual 24-hour Extra Life livestream this year, we’re still going all-in on what matters most: uniting as a community to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and unlocking something special for the future of ARK: Survival Ascended.

For every $30,000 raised through the Studio Wildcard Extra Life charity campaign, the community will unlock a Dino TLC pass to be released throughout 2026, breathing new life into a classic creature of the ARK with updated gameplay and style. Up to four TLCs can be unlocked at the $120,000 milestone!

1. Araneo
   
2. Giganotosaurus
   
3. Thylacoleo
   
4. Brontosaurus
   
5. Megalosaurus
   
6. Quetzalcoatlus
   
7. Carnotaurus
   
8. Megalania
   
9. Titanosaur
   
10. Ankylosaurus
    

When donating to anyone on the Studio Wildcard Extra Life Team, not just Studio Wildcard directly, include a message with your chosen creature’s full first name preceded by a hashtag, like this (we’ll do our best to identify typos, but try to spell them correctly!):

• #Giganotosaurus
  
• Hello #Giganotosaurus
  
• Please give #Giganotosaurus a TLC!
  

If no hashtag vote is included in the donation message, the donation will still count towards the TLC total, but it won’t advance any particular dino’s voting tally.

• Every $1 donated = 1 vote
  
• A $50 donation with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus
  
• Five $10 donations with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus (10 x 5)
  

To keep the vote balanced and consistent, eligible creatures must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a creature from The Island
  
• Must be tameable
  
• Must be rideable or a shoulder pet
  
• Must not have previously received a TLC pass
  
• The following creatures have already had a TLC pass and are not eligible:
  • Argentavis
    
  • Dire Bear
    
  • Direwolf
    
  • Gigantopithecus
    
  • Mammoth
    
  • Parasaur
    
  • Procoptodon
    
  • Raptor
    
  • Tyrannosaurus Rex
    
  • Sabertooth
    
  • Sarcosuchus
    
  • Spinosaurus
    
  • Stegosaurus
    
  • Triceratops

• November 7 – First Winner
  
• November 14 – Second Winner
  
• November 21 – Third Winner
  
• November 28 – Final Winner

[h2]Donate now to any team member listed here to ensure your vote counts![/h2]





Starting October 31st thru November 10th, we’ll be rolling out a selection of the community’s favorite dino colors on the official network, along with a sweet twist in place of the traditional boosted donation rates. For the event, you’ll be able to dig into Cake Slices that grant hefty bonuses to:

• Taming
  
• Breeding
  
• Imprinting
  
• EXP
  
• Harvesting
  

Our next Community Creature submission will take place in the simulated biomes of Genesis Part 1! From the crushing depths of the ocean trenches and volcanic hellscapes to the desolate lunar surfaces and treacherous bogs, this unique map offers an unparalleled variety of habitats for your real-world prehistoric creature to call home.

Start brainstorming your creature concepts and prepping those designs now, as submissions will open in the coming weeks. We’re excited to see how your creature adapts to the challenges of the simulation.

Please note that this creature will be released for Genesis Part 1, so make sure your real-world submissions are thematically suited to the map’s diverse environments. We’re always blown away by the creativity and passion the community brings to creature submissions and we can’t wait to see what wild things you’ll unleash this time around!

• Must be a real-world extinct/prehistoric creature (dinosaurs, mammals, reptiles, etc)
  
• Supplemental information (wiki links, images, art) is preferred.
  

*Note that the proposed features for the creatures from the submission entry are meant to inspire their design, but certain aspects may still be modified.
PLACEHOLDER BONUS EVENT IMAGE
This weekend, the Official Network will be receiving bonus rates! It will be active until Monday, September 15.

• PVP/PVE: 2x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience, and Breeding
  
• Small Tribes: 4.5x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience + 4x Breeding
  
• ARKpocalypse: 5x Harvesting, Taming and Experience, and Breeding
  

Fan Art Gallery | Screenshot Gallery | Artist Feedback Form



Creator: Akalas feat. Asfax *international corner* Akalas and Asfax dive deep into the ocean to find an Excellent Tusotheuthis from the mod ARK Descended.
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]

Creator: Skwirelle
Tired of the same old Rex? Want your Thyla to turn heads? Skwirelle showcases 10 free creature custom cosmetics that will totally reimagine your favorite tames!
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]



Perhaps only I see the vision by dovethecat


Managarmr by lunarsiren


Drew my favorite Wyverns by kaijukat


It was a bit cold certainly, but it was still egg shaped and that was good enough for Ginger. by coffeedragonart


It’s always watching… by amethystthegreat


Starter Pack, Land, Air, and Sea by Tox


Giga Fanart by Tiwonix




Photo Mode by nesvog


Photo Mode by tiagozuff2006


Photo Mode by phant0m3595


Father and Son by strides993


Photo Mode by petitpaf


Enjoy your weekend!
Studio Wildcard

Twitter: twitter.com/survivetheark
Discord: discord.com/invite/playark
Reddit: reddit.com/r/playark
Instagram: instagram.com/survivetheark
Twitch: twitch.tv/survivetheark
Steam: steamcommunity.com/app/346110
Youtube: youtube.com/survivetheark
Facebook: facebook.com/survivetheark
Threads: threads.net/@survivetheark
Official Wiki: ark.wiki.gg

The Deinonychus will make its official debut in ARK: Survival Ascended alongside the launch of Valguero Ascended on September 30th! This agile predator isn’t just fast; it climbs, pounces, and latches onto its prey with terrifying precision. Whether it’s clinging to cliffs or clawing through your defenses, it’s a creature you won’t want to underestimate!

Download in full resolution

While we won’t be able to host our usual 24-hour Extra Life livestream this year, we’re still going all-in on what matters most: uniting as a community to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and unlocking something special for the future of ARK: Survival Ascended.

For every $30,000 raised through the Studio Wildcard Extra Life charity campaign, the community will unlock a Dino TLC pass to be released throughout 2026, breathing new life into a classic creature of the ARK with updated gameplay and style. Up to four TLCs can be unlocked at the $120,000 milestone!




When donating to anyone on the Studio Wildcard Extra Life Team, not just Studio Wildcard directly, include a message with your chosen creature’s full first name preceded by a hashtag, like this (we’ll do our best to identify typos, but try to spell them correctly!):

• #Giganotosaurus
  
• Hello #Giganotosaurus
  
• Please give #Giganotosaurus a TLC!
  

If no hashtag vote is included in the donation message, the donation will still count towards the TLC total, but it won’t advance any particular dino’s voting tally.

• Every $1 donated = 1 vote
  
• A $50 donation with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus
  
• Five $10 donations with #Giganotosaurus = 50 votes for Giganotosaurus (10 x 5)
  

To keep the vote balanced and consistent, eligible creatures must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a creature from The Island
  
• Must be tameable
  
• Must be rideable or a shoulder pet
  
• Must not have previously received a TLC pass
  
• The following creatures have already had a TLC pass and are not eligible:
  • Argentavis
    
  • Dire Bear
    
  • Direwolf
    
  • Gigantopithecus
    
  • Mammoth
    
  • Parasaur
    
  • Procoptodon
    
  • Raptor
    
  • Tyrannosaurus Rex
    
  • Sabertooth
    
  • Sarcosuchus
    
  • Spinosaurus
    
  • Stegosaurus
    
  • Triceratops

• November 7 – First Winner
  
• November 14 – Second Winner
  
• November 21 – Third Winner
  
• November 28 – Final Winner

[h2]Donate now to any team member listed here to ensure your vote counts![/h2]





Starting October 31st thru November 10th, we’ll be rolling out a selection of the community’s favorite dino colors on the official network, along with a sweet twist in place of the traditional boosted donation rates. For the event, you’ll be able to dig into Cake Slices that grant hefty bonuses to:

• Taming
  
• Breeding
  
• Imprinting
  
• EXP
  
• Harvesting
  

Our next Community Creature submission will take place in the simulated biomes of Genesis Part 1! From the crushing depths of the ocean trenches and volcanic hellscapes to the desolate lunar surfaces and treacherous bogs, this unique map offers an unparalleled variety of habitats for your real-world prehistoric creature to call home.

Start brainstorming your creature concepts and prepping those designs now, as submissions will open in the coming weeks. We’re excited to see how your creature adapts to the challenges of the simulation.

Please note that this creature will be released for Genesis Part 1, so make sure your real-world submissions are thematically suited to the map’s diverse environments. We’re always blown away by the creativity and passion the community brings to creature submissions and we can’t wait to see what wild things you’ll unleash this time around!

• Must be a real-world extinct/prehistoric creature (dinosaurs, mammals, reptiles, etc)
  
• Supplemental information (wiki links, images, art) is preferred.
  

*Note that the proposed features for the creatures from the submission entry are meant to inspire their design, but certain aspects may still be modified.


If you’re transferring or ascending to another server with an Armadoggo or Veilwyn in Companion Mode, be sure to exit Companion Mode first. Leaving it active may cause issues during the transfer.

Engineers are continuing to work on the fix with high priority and we hope to set it live soon.



We’re hosting a special building competition! Four winning builds will be added as official in-game templates for everyone to use.

This is your chance to leave a mark on ARK — create something iconic, creative, and functional that survivors across Official servers will be able to build and enjoy.

Competition Timeline

• Entries Open: Friday, August 22, 2025
  
• Entries Close: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
  
• Discord Voting start: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 5:00 PM PT
  
• Discord Voting end: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 5:00 PT
  
• Finalists Announced in the Crunch and Final Voting starts: Friday, September 19, 2025
  
• Winners Announced in the Crunch: Friday, September 26, 2025
  

Prizes

• 2 Community Winner – chosen by popular vote
  
• 2 Wildcard Winner – hand-picked by the Studio
  

All four winning builds will be added as official in-game templates. Plus, as an added little bonus, each winner will receive a Lost Colony Expansion Pass!

Submission Guidelines

• Your build must be Official-compatible:
  
• No overlapping or modded structures.
  • Should be built on a flat surface so players can recreate it easily.
    
  • Must be completable/playable.
    
  • Each submission must include a proper template name + in-game description.
• Builders must provide their template code so we can verify it against the rules.
  
• Must have screenshots of your work
  
• Content must be your own work.
  
• Content rules:
  • No NSFW, derogatory, discriminatory, or disrespectful content.
    
  • PG-13 only.
    

How to Enter
Submit your entry as a thread in #asa-build-contest on the Official ARK Discord.

• Your submission must include:
  
  • Your template code
    
  • A brief title and description of your build
    
  • Screenshots of your build
    

This weekend, the Official Network will be receiving bonus rates! It will be active until Monday, September 8.

• PVP/PVE: 2x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience, and Breeding
  
• Small Tribes: 4.5x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience + 4x Breeding
  
• ARKpocalypse: 5x Harvesting, Taming and Experience, and Breeding
  

Fan Art Gallery | Screenshot Gallery | Artist Feedback Form



Creator: Queen of ARK
Never carry around simple cooked meat again! The Queen of ARK shows you how to create custom recipes for all appetites!
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]

Creator: LolsAtLance
Learn to build this cozy starter home with LolsAtLance in this easy-to-follow tutorial! Perfect for both Official and Unofficial players looking to upgrade their early-game base.
[previewyoutube]YOUTUBE URL[/previewyoutube]



Fan Art by duckydave


Rockwell by nanostel


Shadowmane by lunarsiren


Giga vs Giga by draken_ash


Gelu of the ice by Wyvernadas


Doggie from ARK by @apple-owl


Helicoprion by @rin_survival




Aquatic best friend by xgxbatmanxcx


When she gives you this look by crispnugget


Local survivor discovers cardio works differently underwater by midnight_queen_


The Cedarsaurus by fizzy_pop110


I love these ALOT already by akarimmu


Enjoy your weekend!
Studio Wildcard

Twitter: twitter.com/survivetheark
Discord: discord.com/invite/playark
Reddit: reddit.com/r/playark
Instagram: instagram.com/survivetheark
Twitch: twitch.tv/survivetheark
Steam: steamcommunity.com/app/346110
Youtube: youtube.com/survivetheark
Facebook: facebook.com/survivetheark
Threads: threads.net/@survivetheark
Official Wiki: ark.wiki.gg