After a series of remasters that revisited beloved expansions from the original Ark: Survival Evolved, the gaming community is poised for a refreshing change. The long-awaited Ark Survival Ascended has been yearning for innovative content, particularly as anticipation builds for the upcoming Ark 2. Enter the Lost Colony expansion, a vibrant addition that promises to elevate the narrative stakes leading into the sequel. Initially slated for a November release, the launch has been rescheduled to December, with Studio Wildcard now confirming the precise date for its arrival.
New Adventures Await
As players gear up for this exciting expansion, they have already been granted a taste of the new features through the Lost Colony Expansion Pass. This paid add-on not only provides early access to the expansion but also allows players to explore new skill trees, tames, and base-building tools. Today marks a significant moment for Expansion Pass holders, as they receive the final preview of the expansion: the Ossidon.
The Ossidon, a colossal prehistoric primate, brings a new level of challenge to the game. With its formidable claws and the ability to launch lethal icicle spears, players may find themselves reminiscent of the iconic boulder chase scene from Indiana Jones. This creature can also roll massive balls of mud and snow, adding an exhilarating twist to encounters in the cold biomes of Ragnarok, Valguero, and The Center.
As players prepare to hunt down and potentially tame the Ossidon, excitement builds for the full Lost Colony DLC, set to launch on Tuesday, December 16. This expansion will introduce NPC thralls, a feature long sought after by the community, allowing players to “sway” NPCs and build an army in a manner never before seen in the Ark universe. Additionally, fans of the Netflix series Ark: The Animated Series will be delighted to hear that several stars, including Michelle Yeoh and David Tennant, will reprise their roles, enhancing the narrative experience.
From both a storytelling and gameplay perspective, Lost Colony serves as a crucial stepping stone toward the much-anticipated Ark 2. While expectations for the sequel may have shifted, Studio Wildcard’s co-founders, Jesse Rapczak and Jeremy Stieglitz, have indicated that they are aiming for a release “hopefully within the next two years.” As the community eagerly awaits these developments, the stage is set for an exciting evolution in the Ark universe.
