Ark: Survival Ascendedplayers looking to add some more mythical beasts to their game need to check out theAstraeosDLC. When it comes to providing the community with alternative ways of playing the massive survival game, Studio Wildcard struck gold by opening the floodgates of official mod support. Working hand-in-hand with popular creators,the developer has been able to provide fans with an abundance of extra contentthat manages to keepArkfeeling fresh but familiar at the same time.

Over onSteam, users can now check out the official release ofArk: Astraeos,a gigantic DLC mod that turns the dinosaur-ridden island into an “Elysian land of colossal proportions"inspired by Greek mythology. Originally developed by well-known modder Nekatus,Astraeosconsists of a 264 square-kilometer map that’s loaded with new bosses and enemies themed after iconic monsters like the Cyclops and Medusa. Survivors will also be able to explore a plethora of Greek temples and ruins, all while crafting the perfect set of Spartan armor to further sell the fantasy.

A screenshot from Ark Survival Ascended showing one player, carrying Cupid’s Bow, performing the propose emote towards another character, wearing pink pajamas with hearts on them. A dinosaur lurks in the background.

The press release describes the DLC as:

“a breathtaking Greek Odyssey-themed world created by acclaimed community map author Nekatus. Originally developed as a community mod,Astraeos is now an Official Partner DLC, featuring a new creature variant Maeguana, formidable new bosses, exclusive cosmetics and more!”

Playing Ark: Astraeos Has Never Been Easier

The Joys Of Mod Support

Players who may be unfamiliar with installing mods are in luck becauseAstraeoshas finally made the jump to Steam asStudio Wildcard has worked with Nekatus to officially support the add-on. This means that those wanting to explore the wilds of ancient Greece inArk: Survival Ascendedwill need to pay a premium to do so, but based on early reviews, it’s well worth the cost of admission. Some players have noted that it’s unfinished, so considering the in-development nature of the mod, it’s better to treat it likean early-access release.

Astraeosis an incredibly ambitious expansion sothose who purchase it should be prepared to wait for meaningful updates. Since it’s a solo-dev project, it’s reasonable to expect that fleshing out the world of ancient mythological Greece will take some time.There’s currently no roadmapfor the mod but with roughly one-third of the work complete, users should go in expecting some holes in the framework.

A Greek warrior exploring an ancient tomb littered with bones

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Ark: Astraeos Is An Impressive Feat

Modders Never Fail To Disappoint

I think it’s incredible thata single modder like Nekatushas been able to transformArk: Survival Ascendedin such a meaningful way. The change in theme and tone is staggering by itself, but going one step further to build new monsters and creatures tofurther sell the worldis genuinely fantastic. As someone who’s modded a fair amount of games, I’m pleased to see Studio Wildcard reward Nekatus andI hope thatAstraeos' Steam launch encourages more players to check it out.

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