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Big news for ARK: Survival Evolved fans! A brand-new expansion has been leaked ahead of its official reveal at GDC 2025. Called ARK: Aquatica, this DLC will introduce an entirely new way to play - underwater survival. Unlike previous expansions, it's not developed by Studio Wildcard but by Snail Games as part of ARK's 10-year anniversary celebration.
What is ARK: Aquatica?
ARK: Aquatica is a standalone DLC for ARK: Survival Evolved that takes place on a unique ARK that has crashed into the Atlantic Ocean. The failure of the ARK's environmental systems has left it completely submerged, with Element corruption spreading unchecked. This has led to mutated creatures, an alien-like underwater world, and new survival mechanics that force players to adapt to life beneath the waves.
Leaked ahead of its official reveal at GDC 2025, Aquatica is being developed by Snail Games, the publisher behind ARK, as part of the franchise's 10-year anniversary celebration. However, since it is not being made by Studio Wildcard, the developers of the main game, fans are eager to see how it will compare to previous expansions. Aquatica promises a wealth of new content, including unique creatures, advanced engrams, and fresh gameplay mechanics tailored for deep-sea survival.
New Creatures to Tame
Snail Games has confirmed 17 new creatures, including:
- Monodon - A mystical sea creature that helps you travel quickly.
- Mudpuppy - A loyal companion that can defend you from enemies.
- Mutated Dinosaurs - Some of your favorite ARK creatures, but changed to survive underwater.
New Engrams & Gear
Underwater survival won't be easy, so players will get over 60 new Engrams (craftable items), such as:
- Lead Boots - Walk on the ocean floor without floating up.
- Underwater Breathing Mutations - Modify land creatures to breathe underwater.
- TEK Air Pockets - Build underwater bases where you can breathe.
- 10 New Cooking Recipes - Special food for surviving in the deep sea.
A Massive Underwater World
Instead of land, survivors will explore five huge biomes, each with different challenges and dangers. Expect dark trenches, glowing caves, and terrifying deep-sea monsters.
A New Mystery to Solve
Unlike most ARK expansions, Aquatica has a story. Players will meet two new characters and learn more about Element corruption and the secrets of this sunken ARK. Something is hiding in the Abyss, and it's up to you to discover what's really going on.
How is the ARK Community Reacting?
The reaction to ARK: Aquatica has been largely negative, especially following the release of its low-quality reveal trailer. Many players have expressed concerns about the graphics, animations, and overall polish, fearing that the expansion might not meet expectations. Given that Snail Games is developing it instead of Studio Wildcard, skepticism remains high within the community.
Despite the backlash, some ARK: Survival Evolved players are still excited to see new content added to the game. For those who enjoy underwater exploration, the concept of a fully submerged ARK with new creatures and mechanics is intriguing. However, many are waiting for more details or improvements before forming a final opinion.
When Will ARK: Aquatica Be Released?
The expansion is being made only for PC players of ARK: Survival Evolved. It is officially releasing in June 2025 and should launch during ARK's 10-year anniversary celebration.
Final Thoughts
The reveal of ARK: Aquatica has sparked controversy within the community. While an underwater survival expansion is an interesting concept, the poorly received trailer and concerns about Snail Games' involvement have left many players doubtful. The lack of Studio Wildcard's direct development oversight raises further skepticism about the DLC's quality and execution.
With the expansion originally set to be announced at GDC 2025, the early leak has fueled mixed reactions. While some ARK: Survival Evolved players remain hopeful for new content, others worry that Aquatica may not meet expectations. More details will be needed before the community can fully judge whether this DLC is a welcome addition or a misstep.
