Will Ark Survival Ascended Be on Game Pass: A Deep Dive into Possibilities and Speculations

blog 2025-01-16 0Browse 0

The gaming community is abuzz with speculation about whether Ark Survival Ascended will be available on Xbox Game Pass. This question has sparked countless debates, theories, and hopes among fans of the Ark franchise. In this article, we will explore various perspectives, analyze the likelihood of this happening, and discuss the potential implications for both players and developers.

The Legacy of Ark: Survival Evolved

Before diving into Ark Survival Ascended, it’s essential to understand the legacy of its predecessor, Ark: Survival Evolved. Released in 2017, Survival Evolved became a cultural phenomenon, blending survival mechanics with dinosaur taming and open-world exploration. Its success was amplified when it joined Xbox Game Pass, making it accessible to millions of subscribers. This move significantly boosted its player base and cemented its place in the gaming hall of fame.

Given this history, it’s no surprise that fans are eager to see Ark Survival Ascended follow a similar path. But will it?

What Is Ark Survival Ascended?

Ark Survival Ascended is not just a simple remaster of Survival Evolved. It’s a complete overhaul, built on Unreal Engine 5, promising enhanced graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and new content. The developers have described it as a “next-generation reimagining” of the original game, aiming to deliver a fresh experience while retaining the core elements that made Survival Evolved a hit.

The game’s ambitious scope has raised questions about its accessibility. Will it be a standalone purchase, or will it follow the trend of joining subscription services like Game Pass?

The Case for Ark Survival Ascended on Game Pass

1. Increased Accessibility

One of the primary arguments for Ark Survival Ascended being on Game Pass is accessibility. Game Pass has become a cornerstone of Xbox’s strategy, offering players a vast library of games for a monthly fee. By including Ark Survival Ascended, Microsoft could attract both new and returning players, ensuring the game reaches a broad audience.

2. Boosting Player Base

Survival Evolved benefited immensely from its inclusion in Game Pass. The service’s massive subscriber base helped the game maintain a thriving community long after its initial release. For Ark Survival Ascended, being on Game Pass could replicate this success, ensuring a healthy player count from day one.

3. Cross-Platform Potential

Game Pass is not limited to Xbox; it also extends to PC and cloud gaming. This cross-platform availability aligns perfectly with Ark Survival Ascended’s focus on multiplayer and community-driven gameplay. Players on different platforms could seamlessly join the same servers, fostering a unified and vibrant community.

4. Financial Incentives for Developers

While Game Pass may seem like a loss of direct sales, it often leads to increased revenue through microtransactions, DLCs, and long-term engagement. For a game like Ark Survival Ascended, which thrives on player interaction and continuous updates, this model could be highly lucrative.

The Case Against Ark Survival Ascended on Game Pass

1. Development Costs

Ark Survival Ascended is a significant investment for Studio Wildcard. The transition to Unreal Engine 5 and the addition of new features likely required substantial resources. To recoup these costs, the developers might opt for a traditional retail model, at least initially.

2. Exclusivity Deals

There’s always the possibility of exclusivity deals with other platforms or services. For instance, Sony might secure timed exclusivity for PlayStation, or Epic Games Store could offer incentives for a PC-only release. Such deals could delay or prevent the game’s inclusion on Game Pass.

3. Player Expectations

While Game Pass offers accessibility, it also sets certain expectations. Players might perceive a Game Pass title as less premium compared to a full-priced game. For a project as ambitious as Ark Survival Ascended, the developers might want to position it as a premium experience, separate from the subscription model.

The Middle Ground: A Delayed Game Pass Release

One plausible scenario is a delayed release on Game Pass. The developers could launch Ark Survival Ascended as a standalone purchase, allowing them to maximize initial sales. After a few months, they could add it to Game Pass to rejuvenate interest and attract players who were on the fence about purchasing it outright.

This strategy has been employed successfully by other games, such as Outriders and Back 4 Blood. It strikes a balance between profitability and accessibility, benefiting both developers and players.

Community Reactions and Speculations

The gaming community is divided on this issue. Some fans argue that Game Pass is the future of gaming and that Ark Survival Ascended should embrace it fully. Others believe that the game’s quality and scope warrant a traditional release, ensuring that the developers are adequately compensated for their efforts.

Reddit threads, Twitter polls, and YouTube discussions are filled with passionate arguments on both sides. This level of engagement highlights the game’s significance and the high expectations surrounding its release.

The Role of Microsoft and Xbox

Microsoft’s involvement could be a deciding factor. If Xbox sees Ark Survival Ascended as a system seller or a key title for Game Pass, they might negotiate a deal with Studio Wildcard. Conversely, if the developers prioritize independence, they might resist such arrangements.

It’s worth noting that Microsoft has a history of securing high-profile games for Game Pass, often at significant cost. If they view Ark Survival Ascended as a potential flagship title, they could go to great lengths to include it in their subscription service.

Conclusion: A Wait-and-See Approach

As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding Ark Survival Ascended’s inclusion in Game Pass. The decision will likely depend on a variety of factors, including financial considerations, strategic partnerships, and player demand.

For fans, the best course of action is to stay informed and keep an eye on official announcements. Whether Ark Survival Ascended joins Game Pass or not, one thing is certain: it’s poised to be a landmark title in the survival genre, and its release will be a significant event for the gaming community.

What is the difference between Ark: Survival Evolved and Ark Survival Ascended? Ark Survival Ascended is a complete overhaul of Survival Evolved, built on Unreal Engine 5 with enhanced graphics, improved mechanics, and new content.
When is Ark Survival Ascended expected to release? The release date has not been officially announced, but it is anticipated to launch in the near future.
Will Ark Survival Ascended support cross-platform play? While not confirmed, the developers have expressed interest in cross-platform functionality, aligning with the game’s multiplayer focus.
Can I transfer my progress from Ark: Survival Evolved to Ark Survival Ascended? Details on progress transfer have not been disclosed, but it’s unlikely due to the significant changes in the new version.
What platforms will Ark Survival Ascended be available on? The game is expected to launch on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC, with potential for other platforms in the future.
How much will Ark Survival Ascended cost? Pricing details have not been revealed, but it is expected to be priced as a premium title given its scope and enhancements.