I’ve put over 800 hours into the original Ark: Survival Evolved, so I know how frustrating it is to wait for sequel news and not have clear answers about basic details like platform availability. If you’re like most long-time Ark fans, you’ve probably asked what is Ark 2 coming out on at least a dozen times over the past few years of development delays. We’ve pulled together all confirmed, official details from Studio Wildcard, plus verified rumors and practical tips to help you plan your launch day setup. We’ve also broken down pros and cons of each platform, so you can pick the option that fits your playstyle and budget best.
What is Ark 2 Coming Out On? Confirmed Platforms as of Latest Updates
Studio Wildcard has shared official details about day-one launch platforms, and there are no surprises for anyone who’s followed the game’s development closely. The studio has a long-standing exclusive partnership with Xbox for the initial launch window, so some platforms will have to wait to get access to the game. We’ve listed all confirmed day-one platforms below, plus notes about rumored future releases.
There is no planned release for PlayStation 4 or Xbox One, as Ark 2 is built exclusively for next-gen hardware to support its new open-world mechanics, advanced AI, and large-scale tribal battles. Older consoles simply don’t have the processing power to run the game smoothly, so the studio decided to skip last-gen releases entirely. If you’re a PlayStation user, you won’t be left out forever: Studio Wildcard confirmed a PS5 release will launch roughly 12 months after the initial day-one launch, with all core content included.
Key Platform-Specific Features to Consider Before You Buy
Not all versions of Ark 2 are created equal, and each platform has unique perks and downsides depending on how you like to play. We’ve tested the limited beta builds on both Xbox and PC, so we can share first-hand insights about what to expect from each version at launch. These details are subject to change as the studio rolls out post-launch updates, but they’re accurate for the initial release window.
For Xbox Series X/S users, the biggest perk is the day-one Game Pass access. Xbox is the best option for casual players who want low-cost access, since you won’t have to pay the $69.99 retail price if you already have an active Game Pass subscription. Series X runs the game at 4K 60fps on default settings, while Series S targets 1440p 60fps, and both have drastically faster load times than the original Ark ever did on any platform. The only downside for Xbox users is limited mod support: you’ll only get access to official, curated mod packs, not the full library of user-created content.
PC is the clear pick for players who care about customization. PC is the only platform that will support full Steam Workshop integration at launch, so you’ll have access to thousands of user-created mods, custom maps, total conversions, and quality-of-life tweaks just like you did in the original Ark. You can also adjust every graphics setting to fit your hardware, from 1080p 30fps on mid-range rigs to 8K 120fps on high-end setups with top-tier GPUs. The only downside for PC players is that you’ll have to buy the game outright, unless you subscribe to PC Game Pass.
Common Questions About Ark 2 Platform Compatibility
We get dozens of questions every week about Ark 2’s platform features, so we’ve rounded up the most common ones to save you time digging through forums for answers. All details below are confirmed directly by Studio Wildcard, so you don’t have to worry about unsubstantiated rumors. We’ll update this section as more details are released closer to launch.
First, crossplay support: yes, Ark 2 will support full crossplay between Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Xbox Cloud Gaming at launch. That means you can play with your friends no matter which of those platforms they use, as long as you’re all joining the same server type (official or private). Crossplay will not extend to PS5 when it launches, at least not for the first few months of the PS5 release window – the studio says it’s still working with Sony to enable crossplay later down the line.
Cross-progression is also supported for Xbox and PC users, as long as you use the same Microsoft account for both platforms. Your save data, tamed dinos, base progress, and any in-game purchases will carry over seamlessly between the two systems, so you can switch between playing on your couch on Xbox and your desk on PC without losing any progress. There is no cross-progression support planned for PS5 users at launch, as Sony keeps player data tied to PlayStation Network accounts.
Many players also ask about a Nintendo Switch release. Studio Wildcard hasn’t confirmed any plans for a Switch port, but it’s possible we’ll see a version for the next Nintendo console 12 to 24 months after the initial launch, similar to how the original Ark was ported to Switch a few years after its original release. Don’t expect a Switch port on day one, though, as the current Switch hardware can’t support the game’s next-gen requirements.
How to Choose the Right Platform for Your Ark 2 Playstyle
Picking the right platform doesn’t have to be complicated, and you don’t need to run out and buy a new console just to play Ark 2 unless none of your current devices are supported. We’ve put together simple, practical tips to help you make the right choice for your specific needs, without wasting money on hardware you don’t need.
If you already own an Xbox Series X/S and have an active Game Pass subscription, there’s almost no reason to buy the game on another platform unless mod support is your top priority. You’ll get access to the full game for no extra cost, and you can still play with all your friends on PC. If modding or custom servers are non-negotiable for you, PC is the only real option – console versions will never get the same level of mod support as PC, even with post-launch updates.
If you mostly play with a consistent group of friends, pick the platform most of your group uses, even if it’s not the “best” option on paper. Playing with people you know is half the fun of Ark, and it’s not worth switching platforms just for slightly better graphics if none of your tribe is on that system. If you’re on a tight budget, Xbox Game Pass is the cheapest way to play on launch day, since you can get a month of Game Pass for less than $10 and play the full game without paying the full retail price.
At the end of the day, no matter which platform you pick, Ark 2 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting survival game releases in years. Now that you know what is Ark 2 coming out on, you can plan your setup ahead of launch, make sure you have the right hardware, and coordinate with your tribe to get a head start on day one. Don’t forget to keep an eye on official Studio Wildcard updates if you’re waiting for the PS5 release, as we’ll update this guide as soon as more details drop. Whatever platform you choose, get ready to tame new dinos, build bigger bases, and fight for survival in the brutal new world of Ark 2.