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

The gaming community is abuzz with speculation about whether Ark Survival Ascended will be available on Xbox Game Pass. This question has sparked numerous debates, theories, and discussions among fans of the Ark franchise. In this article, we will explore various perspectives, analyze the likelihood of its inclusion, and delve into the broader implications for both players and developers.
The Legacy of Ark: Survival Evolved
Before diving into the specifics of 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 by its availability on multiple platforms, including Xbox Game Pass, which significantly boosted its player base.
The game’s inclusion in Game Pass was a strategic move by Studio Wildcard and Microsoft, allowing millions of subscribers to experience the game without an upfront cost. This decision not only increased the game’s popularity but also set a precedent for future titles in the franchise.
What Is Ark Survival Ascended?
Ark Survival Ascended is the highly anticipated remastered version of Ark: Survival Evolved. Promising enhanced graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and new content, it aims to breathe new life into the beloved survival game. The remaster is built on Unreal Engine 5, which promises stunning visuals and a more immersive experience.
Given the success of the original game, fans are eager to know whether Ark Survival Ascended will follow in its footsteps and join the Game Pass library. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as it involves multiple factors, including licensing agreements, business strategies, and market trends.
The Case for Ark Survival Ascended on Game Pass
1. Precedent Set by Ark: Survival Evolved
As mentioned earlier, Ark: Survival Evolved was a staple on Xbox Game Pass for years. Its inclusion helped the game reach a broader audience and maintain a steady player base. Studio Wildcard and Microsoft have a history of collaboration, making it plausible that Ark Survival Ascended could follow the same path.
2. Game Pass as a Marketing Tool
Xbox Game Pass has become a powerful marketing tool for game developers. By offering their titles on the platform, developers can attract millions of potential players who might not have purchased the game otherwise. For a remaster like Ark Survival Ascended, Game Pass could serve as a way to reintroduce the franchise to both old and new players.
3. Competition in the Survival Genre
The survival genre is highly competitive, with titles like Rust, Valheim, and Conan Exiles vying for players’ attention. By placing Ark Survival Ascended on Game Pass, Studio Wildcard could gain a competitive edge, ensuring that their game remains relevant in a crowded market.
4. Player Retention and Community Building
Game Pass not only attracts new players but also helps retain existing ones. For a game like Ark Survival Ascended, which relies heavily on its community, being on Game Pass could foster a larger and more active player base. This, in turn, could lead to increased longevity and continued support from the developers.
The Case Against Ark Survival Ascended on Game Pass
1. Revenue Concerns
While Game Pass offers exposure, it may not always translate into direct revenue for developers. Studio Wildcard might prefer to sell Ark Survival Ascended as a standalone title to maximize profits, especially given the significant investment required for a remaster.
2. Exclusivity Deals
There is always the possibility that Ark Survival Ascended could be part of an exclusivity deal with another platform, such as PlayStation or Epic Games Store. Such deals could prevent the game from being available on Game Pass, at least initially.
3. Timing and Strategy
Studio Wildcard might choose to release Ark Survival Ascended as a premium title first, allowing early adopters to purchase it at full price. Later, the game could be added to Game Pass to attract a second wave of players. This staggered approach is common in the industry and could be a viable strategy for Ark Survival Ascended.
4. Technical and Licensing Challenges
Porting a game to Game Pass involves technical and licensing considerations. If Studio Wildcard faces challenges in meeting Microsoft’s requirements or negotiating favorable terms, it could delay or prevent the game’s inclusion on the platform.
Broader Implications for the Gaming Industry
The decision to include Ark Survival Ascended on Game Pass could have far-reaching implications for the gaming industry. It would reinforce the growing trend of major titles being available on subscription services, further solidifying Game Pass as a dominant force in the market. Additionally, it could set a precedent for other remasters and sequels, encouraging developers to leverage subscription platforms for maximum reach.
On the other hand, if Ark Survival Ascended opts out of Game Pass, it could signal a shift in how developers approach remasters. It might indicate a preference for traditional sales models, especially for high-profile titles with dedicated fan bases.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The gaming community is divided on whether Ark Survival Ascended should be on Game Pass. Some fans argue that the game’s inclusion would make it more accessible, allowing a wider audience to experience the remaster. Others believe that the game should be sold as a premium product, ensuring that Studio Wildcard receives adequate compensation for their efforts.
Regardless of the outcome, the anticipation surrounding Ark Survival Ascended highlights the enduring appeal of the Ark franchise. Fans are eager to see how the remaster will improve upon the original and whether it will live up to their expectations.
Conclusion
The question of whether Ark Survival Ascended will be on Game Pass remains unanswered, but it is undoubtedly a topic of great interest. The decision will depend on a variety of factors, including business strategies, market trends, and technical considerations. Regardless of the outcome, Ark Survival Ascended is poised to make a significant impact on the gaming world, and fans can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Related Q&A
Q1: When is Ark Survival Ascended expected to release?
A1: As of now, Studio Wildcard has not announced an official release date, but it is expected to launch in late 2023 or early 2024.
Q2: Will Ark Survival Ascended be available on other platforms besides Xbox?
A2: Yes, the game is expected to be available on PlayStation, PC, and potentially other platforms.
Q3: What improvements can players expect in Ark Survival Ascended compared to the original?
A3: The remaster will feature enhanced graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and new content, all powered by Unreal Engine 5.
Q4: How much will Ark Survival Ascended cost if it’s not on Game Pass?
A4: Pricing details have not been confirmed, but it is likely to be sold as a premium title, with a price point similar to other AAA games.
Q5: Can players transfer their progress from Ark: Survival Evolved to Ark Survival Ascended?
A5: Studio Wildcard has not provided specific details about progress transfer, but it is unlikely due to the significant changes in the remaster.