Ark 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Ark: Survival Evolved, has faced significant delays since its 2020 announcement, missing its initial 2022 release and subsequent 2023 and late 2024 targets. In an exclusive PCGamesN interview, Studio Wildcard co-founders Jesse Rapczak and Jeremy Stieglitz revealed that the game’s ambitious scope, including a shift to Unreal Engine 5 and innovative features like souls-like combat, prompted a pause in development. Before the 2023 launch of Ark: Survival Ascended, a remastered version of the original game, Wildcard created a promising vertical slice of Ark 2 but found it challenging to complete with their resources and experience. The team shifted focus to Survival Ascended to master Unreal Engine 5 and fund Ark 2, leaving only a small group to refine the sequel’s combat mechanics, particularly its complex multiplayer PvP souls-like system. Stieglitz estimates it will take 18 months of focused effort to turn the vertical slice into an early access game, targeting a potential release by mid-2027, though resource allocation remains a hurdle as Survival Ascended continues to demand attention.
Future Features and Fan Expectations for Ark 2
Ark 2 aims to redefine the survival genre with a third-person perspective, advanced traversal mechanics like parkour and swinging, and NPC antagonists, as implied by cinematic trailers featuring Vin Diesel as Santiago, a hero protecting his daughter Meeka (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho). The game promises dynamic world events, such as dinosaur stampedes, and seamless user-generated content systems, setting it apart from its predecessor. Studio Wildcard is determined to avoid releasing a game that feels outdated, with Stieglitz noting the need to keep pace with industry advancements to ensure Ark 2 feels cutting-edge. Despite fan frustration over the lack of updates—evident in X posts speculating about cancellation or delays until 2027—the game remains a top-wished title on Steam, bolstered by its star-studded cast and ties to the upcoming Lost Colony DLC for Survival Ascended, which sets up Ark 2’s narrative. For the latest, follow Studio Wildcard’s X account or check their official site, but players should brace for a wait as the studio balances ambition with stability.
