Studio Wildcard has released the Mod Kit for the recently launched Early Access Dino-MMO ARK: Survival Evolved.
The Mod Kit is a simplified version of the Unreal Engine 4 editor, so basically anyone should be able to handle it – with a little bit of onboarding time. Through the editor, it is possible to create new items and weapons, modify the AI, and tinker with game logic and classes. Additionally, tinkerers are allowed to create entirely new areas for the MMO ARK. New game modes and even further gameplay mechanics can also be created. However, what is not included is the C++ source code of the game.
Create your own ARK mods!
Anyone who engages with the Mod Kit and creates their own content can upload it directly to Steam and offer it to other players through the Workshop. This allows anyone who finds the mod interesting to download it and incorporate it into their game. If you plan to create something with the Mod Kit for ARK, you will also need an account for Unreal Engine 4 and must then download the UE4 editor files from GitHub. You can find the relevant links and instructions on this Ark mod page: http://www.playark.com/workshop/.
On the official website of the MMO ARK, you will find a special subforum for mods. In this forum, the developers regularly post tips on how to use the Mod Kit and create your own mods. Soon, a guide will also be available that describes how to create new game modes.
Mods hold great importance for the developers of ARK, as they want to directly involve the community in the further development of the game and provide them with significantly more options than just goofing around in the game. Mods often contribute significantly to the success and longevity of a game, as the RPG The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim demonstrates. Whether such a large number of mods will also appear for ARK: Survival Evolved remains to be seen.
