Ark: Survival Evolved throws you into a prehistoric world teeming with dinosaurs, where survival hinges on taming these beasts and building your own domain. This persistent online game allows you to team up with friends or face the dangers alone. But can you play with friends on different platforms? Let’s explore the current state of Ark’s cross-platform capabilities.
Ark’s Cross-Platform Compatibility: A Limited Landscape
Unfortunately, Ark: Survival Evolved does not offer full cross-platform play. Currently, cross-play is only possible between Xbox consoles and Windows PCs. This means players on these two platforms can join the same servers and experience the game together. Similarly, mobile players on iOS and Android devices can also connect and play together. However, PlayStation users are left out of the cross-play equation. There is no cross-play functionality between PlayStation and any other platform.
Ark’s Cross-Progression: Mirroring Cross-Play Limitations
Cross-progression in Ark follows a similar pattern. You can transfer your character, progress, and items between Xbox and PC. This flexibility allows you to seamlessly switch between your gaming rig and console without losing your hard-earned progress. However, PlayStation users are again isolated. Progress made on PlayStation consoles cannot be transferred to or from any other platform. Starting on PlayStation or switching to it means beginning your Ark journey anew.
No Cross-Play for PlayStation: A Persistent Divide
The absence of cross-play and cross-progression for PlayStation remains a significant limitation in Ark: Survival Evolved. This restriction prevents PlayStation players from joining friends on other platforms and creates a fragmented player base. While the reasons for this platform divide remain unclear, it presents a challenge for those hoping to enjoy Ark with friends on different systems.
Conclusion: Ark’s Cross-Platform Future
Ark: Survival Evolved offers a thrilling survival experience, but its cross-platform capabilities are limited. While Xbox and PC players, along with mobile users, can enjoy cross-play and cross-progression, PlayStation users remain isolated. This platform divide can hinder the social aspect of the game for those with friends on different systems. Whether future updates will bridge this gap remains to be seen.
