The latest update features a gigantic map called The Central, which actually doesn’t stem from Studio Wildcard itself. The map originated from a fan, and quickly became one of the most popular modifications on the Steam Workshop. Studio Wildcard got in touch with the modification’s creator and purchased the creation from them, and were evidently so impressed with the modification that they’ve since brought the talented modder onto their staff.

Here’s the trailer for the full patch, which focuses heavily on the new map:

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Aside from the addition of the huge new world, gamers will also find five new creatures included in the massive 10GB update, which includes a giant millipede, a ride-able giant manta ray, a Lystrosaurus, a saber-toothed fish, and even a dangerous-sounding direbear. There’s also two new bosses thrown into the mix, and the inclusion of an new crafting table in the form of a chemistry station will provide plenty more late-game content for experienced players.

The inclusion of a primitive bola weapon allows players to ensnare smaller dinosaurs earlier on the game, making trapping live prey a slightly easier task. Surprisingly, the bola even works on some flying creatures, so long as players are capable of landing a hit. A pirate-inspired primitive cannon also makes its way into the game, which logically requires a cannonball to use. The cannon can be unlocked at level 40 for 25 engram points (just 5 for the cannonball, though).

The update also introduces a tribal ranking system, which lets groups of players assign ranks to members of their tribe, and assign custom privileges to these individual ranks. This allows for the creation of a “caste-based society”, where players can ensure only high ranking officials have access to certain buildings, inventories, and creatures. This adds a great new dimension to multiplayer gameplay and role playing, and will likely help combat against griefers, too.

Those thinking the purchase of a popular modification was a one time thing should also stand corrected, as ARK: Survival Evolved lead designer Jeremy Stieglitz, who recently settled a lawsuit against his former employer, has confirmed this is the start of the a new program called the Official Mods Program:

Evidently, it pays to be a talented modder.

What do you think about the latest patch, Ranters?

ARK: Survival Evolved is still in early access, with the full edition slated to arrive this holiday season for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.

Source: YouTube