The highly anticipated dinosaur survival game, *Ark 2*, which had sparked concerns among fans due to its delayed release, is back in the spotlight. Developer Studio Wildcard has unveiled a new expansion for *Ark: Survival Ascended*, the remake of the original *Ark*, titled *Ark: Lost Colony*. This expansion not only bridges the narrative between *Ark 1* and its sequel but also serves as a testament to the ongoing development of *Ark 2*.
*Ark: Lost Colony* marks the first original expansion pack for *Ark: Survival Ascended*. The reveal trailer, crafted by the renowned anime studio Mappa, known for hits like *Jujutsu Kaisen*, *Attack on Titan*, and *Chainsaw Man*, features voiceover work by Michelle Yeoh, who returns to her role as Mei Yin from *Ark: The Animated Series*.
Studio Wildcard promises that *Ark: Lost Colony* will include numerous cinema-grade anime story sequences produced by Mappa. The official description highlights an immersive journey into a new frozen world, where players follow the legendary Ark survivor Mei Yin. The quest delves into the chilling heart of darkness, seeking answers to the long-buried secrets of Ark's past.
The expansion introduces thrilling new challenges, including becoming the hunted in a vast occupied city. Players will gain access to powerful new character abilities, unique gear, innovative building systems, and exotic tames. The narrative connects the storylines of *Ark*'s *Extinction* and *Genesis* expansions, setting the stage for the events in *Ark 2*.
*Ark 2*, powered by Unreal Engine 5, was initially announced with a surprise appearance by Vin Diesel at The Game Awards 2020, slated for a 2022 release. Subsequent delays pushed it to 2023 and then to late 2024 as an Xbox Series X and S console exclusive, with day-one availability on Game Pass and PC via Steam and Windows. Despite assurances in December 2023 that *Ark 2* was on track for a late 2024 release, the game did not meet that deadline, raising concerns among fans. The announcement of *Ark: Lost Colony* in early 2025 reassures fans that *Ark 2* remains in development, though no new release window was provided.
More concrete details are available for *Ark: Lost Colony*. Pre-orders will begin in June 2025, offering immediate access to exclusive preview gameplay content. The full release is scheduled for November 2025, with *Ark: Lost Colony* priced at $29.99 for Xbox Series X and S, PlayStation 5, and PC. This expansion not only enriches the *Ark* universe but also keeps the anticipation alive for *Ark 2*.
