Why Wild Card is Developing Ark 2: Extending the Epic Storyline and Game Evolution
Wild Card Games, the developers behind the massively popular sandbox survival game ARK: Survival Evolved, are working on its highly anticipated sequel, Ark 2. There are compelling reasons behind this endeavor, and in this article, we will explore the dual motivations: the desire to extend the storyline and the need for technical advancements with the latest gaming technology.
The Need for an Expanded Storyline
One of the primary reasons Wild Card is developing Ark 2 is to extend the rich and immersive storyline that fans and survivors have come to love. The original Ark: Survival Evolved took players on a journey from the aftermath of a catastrophic event, known as the Scorched Earth, to the extinction of the survivors, featuring characters such as Helena Nerva, Pre, and Rockwell. The Genesis 1 and Genesis 2 chapters provided us with the present-day setting, setting the stage for the futuristic Ark 2.
By creating Ark 2, Wild Card aims to take the game into the future, offering new and exciting storylines that explore not only what comes next but also what might have happened in the past. This narrative extension caters to the deep-seated desire for continuity and the exploration of different time periods, which is a core feature of the ARCH Announcement.
The Technical Imperative: From Unreal Engine 4 to Unreal Engine 5
Another significant reason for developing a new game is the need to leverage the latest in-game technology. The original Ark: Survival Evolved was built on the powerful yet aging Unreal Engine 4. While this engine has served the game well over the years, it has become increasingly difficult to maintain and update. As new consoles have been released and the latest Unreal Engine 5 has been announced, Wild Card sees an opportunity to revamp the game with improved features such as better graphics and more efficient gameplay mechanics.
The transition to Unreal Engine 5 offers several advantages. Firstly, it enables developers to build a game that is optimized for modern hardware, thereby reducing the chances of crashes and improving overall performance. Secondly, Unreal Engine 5 introduces more advanced rendering capabilities, sound systems, and level of detail management, allowing for a more immersive and visually stunning experience. The engine's capabilities, such as Nanites for real-time geometry, and Lumen for real-time lighting, can significantly enhance the game’s graphics and visual effects.
Furthermore, rather than adding more downloadable content (DLC) to the already complex game, Wild Card is opting to create a fresh start with Ark 2. This approach is a strategic decision to avoid the complexities and potential technical debt that come with incremental updates. By starting anew with a new, optimized game, Wild Card can address long-standing issues and deliver a more polished and enjoyable experience for players.
Conclusion: A New Era for Ark
The development of Ark 2 by Wild Card Games marks a significant evolution in the history of ARK: Survival Evolved. It is driven by the twin goals of extending the game's narrative and leveraging the latest technological advancements. As the industry continues to evolve, Wild Card is positioning its game to compete in a modern and highly competitive market. Players can look forward to a game that not only remains deeply engaging but also offers cutting-edge visuals and gameplay. As the developers learn from their past experiences and embrace the future, Ark 2 promises to be a pivotal chapter in the ARK saga.