Studio Wildcard has unveiled the powerful male Bison creature coming to ARK: Survival Ascended's Ragnarok map on June 2nd. Community Crunch 457 also details important server changes, including the return of mesh detection to Astraeos servers and player cap adjustments, alongside an exciting Cross-Platform Mods spotlight and a bonus rates weekend.
Male Bison Stomps Into Ragnarok on June 2nd
The latest addition to ARK: Survival Ascended's creature roster has been revealed: the male Bison. Unlike its nursing female counterpart, this "stubborn slab of muscle" specializes in brute force protection. Players can expect a combat-focused creature capable of headbutts, ground-shaking stomps, and aggressive herd defense when Ragnarok launches on June 2nd, 2025.
Critical Server Changes Coming May 19-20
Several important operational changes are coming to ARK: Survival Ascended's official servers. Starting Monday, May 19, 2025, mesh detection will return to Official Astraeos Servers following adjustments to prevent false positives. On the same day, the Astraeos server player cap will be reduced from 100 to the standard 70 players to ensure smoother performance.
Additionally, Studio Wildcard announced they'll be sunsetting numerous inactive official servers on May 20th, 2025. This optimization aims to consolidate the player base and improve overall performance. The developers are working with Nitrado to make server saves available for players who wish to preserve their progress.
What's Changing with Official Servers?
| Change | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Mesh Detection | May 19, 2025 | Re-enabled on Astraeos servers |
| Player Cap | May 19, 2025 | Reduced from 100 to 70 on Astraeos |
| Server Sunset | May 20, 2025 | Inactive servers being retired |
Cross-Platform Mods Spotlight
The Community Crunch highlights several impressive player-created mods available through the in-game Mod browser. Featured content includes structure skins, outfits, weapons, and new creatures that expand gameplay options across all platforms.
Standout mods include the Bunker Structure Skins, Ancient Wyvern Costume, and Xyphias' Creatures collection featuring unique dinosaurs like the Megisotherium and Enantiophoenix. These cross-platform mods demonstrate the creativity of the ARK community and significantly extend gameplay options.
Weekend Bonus Rates Active
Players can take advantage of boosted rates on the Official Network until Monday, May 12, 2025. The temporary bonuses vary by server type:
- PVP/PVE: 2x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience
- Small Tribes: 4.5x Harvesting, Taming, and Experience
- ARKpocalypse: 5x Harvesting, Taming and Experience
These boosted rates provide the perfect opportunity for survivors to accelerate their progress, whether taming new creatures, gathering resources, or leveling up characters.
Community Creations
The Community Crunch also showcases outstanding fan art and screenshots from the community. Highlights include a fierce Therizinosaurus illustration, an Ice Wyvern portrait, and various photo mode captures demonstrating the game's visual splendor. Creative content from players continues to demonstrate the passionate community surrounding the game.
