How to Play Multiplayer on Ark: A Journey Through Digital Dinosaurs and Unlikely Alliances

Ark: Survival Evolved is a game that combines the thrill of survival with the awe-inspiring presence of dinosaurs. While the single-player mode offers a rich experience, the multiplayer aspect takes the game to a whole new level. In this article, we will explore how to play multiplayer on Ark, diving into various strategies, tips, and the unexpected alliances that can form in this digital wilderness.

Understanding the Basics of Multiplayer in Ark

Before diving into the multiplayer world of Ark, it’s essential to understand the different types of multiplayer modes available. Ark offers both PvE (Player vs. Environment) and PvP (Player vs. Player) modes. In PvE, players work together to survive against the environment and the creatures that inhabit it. In PvP, players can engage in combat with each other, adding an extra layer of strategy and competition.

Joining a Server

To play multiplayer on Ark, you need to join a server. There are several types of servers:

Official Servers: These are maintained by the game developers and offer a standard experience. They are often crowded, and the rules are strictly enforced.
Unofficial Servers: These are hosted by players or communities. They can have custom rules, mods, and settings, offering a more tailored experience.
Non-Dedicated Servers: These are hosted by a player’s machine and are ideal for small groups of friends. However, the host must be online for others to join.

Creating a Tribe

One of the first things you should do in multiplayer Ark is to create or join a tribe. Tribes allow players to share resources, structures, and tamed creatures. Being part of a tribe can significantly enhance your survival chances, especially in PvP mode where alliances can make or break your game.

Strategies for Multiplayer Success

Resource Management

In multiplayer Ark, resources are often scarce, and competition for them can be fierce. Here are some tips for effective resource management:

Establish a Base: Build a secure base early on to store your resources and protect them from other players or creatures.
Divide Responsibilities: In a tribe, assign roles to each member. Some can focus on gathering resources, while others can focus on building or taming creatures.
Use Tamed Creatures: Tamed creatures can help you gather resources more efficiently. For example, a Triceratops is excellent for gathering berries, while a Ankylosaurus is perfect for mining metal.

Taming and Breeding

Taming creatures is a core aspect of Ark, and in multiplayer, it becomes even more critical. Here are some tips for taming and breeding:

Taming Pens: Build taming pens to safely trap and tame creatures. This is especially useful for larger, more dangerous dinosaurs.
Breeding: Breeding creatures can give you access to stronger, more specialized dinosaurs. However, it requires time and resources, so plan accordingly.
Teamwork: Taming high-level creatures can be challenging. Work with your tribe to take down and tame these creatures efficiently.

PvP Tactics

If you’re playing in PvP mode, you’ll need to be prepared for combat. Here are some strategies:

Stealth and Ambush: Use the environment to your advantage. Hide in bushes or behind rocks to ambush unsuspecting players.
Base Defense: Fortify your base with walls, turrets, and traps. Make it difficult for other players to raid you.
Diplomacy: Sometimes, forming alliances with other tribes can be more beneficial than constant warfare. Negotiate and form temporary truces when necessary.

The Unpredictable Nature of Multiplayer Alliances

One of the most fascinating aspects of multiplayer Ark is the unpredictability of player interactions. In a world where survival is the primary goal, alliances can form and dissolve in the blink of an eye. Here are some scenarios that highlight the dynamic nature of multiplayer alliances:

The Temporary Truce: Two tribes, locked in a bitter feud, might temporarily ally to take down a powerful Alpha creature. Once the threat is neutralized, the truce may dissolve, and hostilities resume.
The Betrayal: A tribe might offer to help another tribe, only to turn on them once their guard is down. Betrayals are common in PvP, and trust is a rare commodity.
The Unlikely Alliance: Sometimes, tribes with vastly different playstyles or goals might form an alliance out of necessity. For example, a tribe focused on taming might ally with a tribe focused on combat to balance each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion

Playing multiplayer on Ark: Survival Evolved is an experience like no other. It combines the thrill of survival with the complexity of player interactions, creating a dynamic and ever-changing world. Whether you’re taming dinosaurs, building massive bases, or engaging in epic battles, the multiplayer aspect of Ark offers endless possibilities. By understanding the basics, employing effective strategies, and navigating the unpredictable nature of alliances, you can thrive in this digital wilderness.

Q: Can I play multiplayer on Ark without joining a tribe? A: Yes, you can play solo in multiplayer, but joining a tribe offers significant advantages, such as shared resources and collective defense.

Q: How do I find a good unofficial server? A: Look for servers with active communities, fair rules, and low latency. You can also read reviews or ask for recommendations from other players.

Q: What happens if my tribe is raided in PvP? A: If your base is raided, you may lose resources, tamed creatures, and structures. It’s essential to have a strong defense and backup plans in place.

Q: Can I switch between PvE and PvP modes? A: No, once you choose a server, you are locked into its mode. If you want to switch, you’ll need to join a different server.

Q: How do I tame a high-level creature in multiplayer? A: Taming high-level creatures requires preparation, such as building a taming pen, gathering the necessary resources, and coordinating with your tribe to keep the creature subdued during the taming process.