Ark: Survival Ascended – Complete Guide to Extinction Ascended & Wasteland War Update Features

Ark: Survival Ascended has just unveiled its latest expansion, the Extinction update, which introduces an exciting new map, an array of creatures, and numerous gameplay enhancements. This update marks the fourth major free downloadable content (DLC) addition for ASA, following the releases of Scorched Earth, The Center, and Aberration. Notably, while previous updates were largely based on player mods from Ark: Survival Evolved, Extinction is uniquely crafted by Studio Wildcard.

Although Extinction will be the final addition for ASA in 2024, players can anticipate more updates as Studio Wildcard continues to reintroduce content from Survival Evolved in 2025. Below, we delve into what the Extinction update offers, including the thrilling new Wasteland War mode.

Exploring the New Extinction Map

A Return to Earth’s Ruins

The standout feature of the Extinction update is undoubtedly its new map, which diverges from previous ASA environments set in the cosmos. Instead, players will navigate the desolate remnants of Earth. The map is divided into several distinct biomes, including the Sunken Forest in the northwest, the snowy landscapes in the northeast, the arid desert in the southeast, and the hazardous Sulfur Fields in the southwest. Referred to as Proto-Arks, these biomes were experiments intended to test the feasibility of Ark space stations.

Each biome offers its own challenges, from extreme weather conditions in the Snow and Desert zones to perilous terrains in the Sunken Forest and the toxic waters of the Sulfur Fields. Additional smaller biomes lie in between, such as the Sludge Basin to the south and the Forbidden Zone to the north, emphasizing the stark difference between life and the barren Wasteland that lies between them. Players venturing through the Wasteland will need to prepare for its desolate nature.

At the heart of the Extinction map is Sanctuary, a once-thriving, technologically advanced city now in ruins. Though it boasts lush vegetation and remnants of a habitable environment, its prime location makes it a hotspot for multiplayer conflict.

To keep gameplay dynamic, Extinction introduces unique map features and atmospheric events. Players will witness natural phenomena like eclipses, which can cloak the landscape in darkness during daytime, and perilous meteor showers that threaten structures and players alike. Additionally, Orbital Supply Drops will sporadically descend, prompting players to defend Element Nodes from waves of corrupted creatures before claiming their loot.

Introducing Extinction’s Dreadnoughtus Creature

What to Expect from the Dreadnoughtus

In a community-driven decision, the formidable Dreadnoughtus has been added to the Extinction update. This impressive creature proves valuable as it serves both as a mount and a pack animal, equipped with an extensive carrying capacity to assist players in resource gathering.

The Dreadnoughtus boasts a unique combat ability that allows it to consume boulders and cannonballs and then launch them back at foes, coating them in a corrosive acid. Beyond this giant, players will encounter and tame various Extinction-specific creatures, primarily consisting of synthetic remnants from the advanced civilization that once thrived in Sanctuary, including surveillance drones and combat mechs.

Introducing the Wasteland War Mode

Customizable Vehicles & Conclusion of Bob’s Tall Tales

Alongside the Extinction update, Wasteland War introduces a new game mode that also brings the Bob’s Tall Tales DLC series to a close. Drawing inspiration from the Mad Max franchise, this mode is set in the treacherous wastelands of the Extinction map, where factions engage in combat using heavily customized vehicles.

Players can create and personalize their own BattleRigs, outfitting them with weaponry, armor, and vibrant paint jobs before deploying them against enemy territories. Access to Wasteland War requires the purchase of the Bob’s Tall Tales DLC.

This mode also introduces new construction options and weapons, including explosive spears and innovative grenade designs that can extinguish fires. Additional structures such as Bladewasp hives and Bio-Grinders enhance the strategic gameplay. The update also offers a collection of aesthetic enhancements, including new character skins and cosmetics. Notably, Wasteland War grants access to Armadoggo, a customizable robotic dog companion that excels in item retrieval and treasure hunting on players’ adventures.

In summary, the Extinction update and Wasteland War mode unveil a wealth of excitement for Ark: Survival Ascended enthusiasts. Players are encouraged to dive into the game to experience the new expanses and challenges first-hand.

Source & Images