If you’ve been following the saga of Ark 2 since its hype-laden debut at The Game Awards 2020, you’re likely both excited and skeptical. Delays have mounted, release targets slipped, and Studio Wildcard’s vision has only become more ambitious. Riding a T-Rex as Vin Diesel sounds awesome—but will Ark 2 actually arrive, and will it live up to its promise?
Studio Wildcard first unveiled Ark 2 in 2020 with a late 2024 release target. However, a mid-2025 update revealed the core team would need at least 18 months of dedicated development after wrapping work on Ark: Survival Ascended and existing DLC. That pushed early access into 2027–2028 at best—a far cry from the original schedule.
Vin Diesel’s role as Santiago adds star power and narrative depth—but Ark’s strength lies in player-driven stories, not linear cutscenes. How much his executive producer input will affect gameplay remains to be seen.
Ark 2 will launch exclusively on Xbox Series X/S and PC via Game Pass, sidelining PlayStation at release. This split could fragment the player base and hinder mod adoption if cross-platform support stalls.
Patience is key. Use Ark: Survival Ascended and the thriving mod scene to fill the gap. If you value single-player narrative over multiplayer chaos, adopt a “watch-and-wait” stance when early access nears.
Ark 2 aims higher than its predecessor, with new engines, mechanics, and a blockbuster voice cast. Yet the studio’s proven “launch rough, patch later” model and shifting timelines suggest gamers should temper expectations. If delays mean a more polished release, the wait may be worth it—but keep that dino saddle ready and your patience stat maxed.
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Publisher | Studio Wildcard |
Early Access ETA | 2027–2028 (estimate) |
Platforms | Xbox Series X/S, PC (Game Pass) |
Engine | Unreal Engine 5 |
Get access to exclusive strategies, hidden tips, and pro-level insights that we don't share publicly.
Ultimate Gaming Strategy Guide + Weekly Pro Tips