The thrill of starting fresh in Ark Survival Evolved is undeniable. A server wipe offers a chance to rebuild your base, tame new creatures, and dominate the island once more. But knowing when wipes happen and how to prepare is crucial. This guide covers everything you need to know about Ark server wipes, from understanding the wipe schedule to maximizing your experience during and after the event.
Understanding Ark Server Wipe Schedules
Ark server wipes aren't standardized across all servers. The frequency and timing depend entirely on the server's administrator. Some servers wipe weekly, others monthly, and some don't wipe at all—offering a persistent world experience. Therefore, the most important step is to find your server's specific wipe schedule.
This information is usually found in several places:
- The server's description: Check the server's description on the game's server browser. Many admins clearly state their wipe schedule there.
- The server's Discord or forum: Most dedicated servers have a community hub where important announcements, including wipe schedules, are shared.
- In-game announcements: Some servers might announce upcoming wipes directly within the game.
Types of Ark Server Wipes
There are generally two main types of wipes to be aware of:
- Full Wipes: These are complete resets. Everything is gone: your base, your dinos, your inventory, your levels – it's a complete clean slate.
- Partial Wipes: These are less drastic. They might only affect player structures, inventories, or dinos, leaving some aspects of the game world intact. Some servers might only wipe player data, leaving the world itself untouched.
Preparing for an Ark Server Wipe
Knowing a wipe is coming allows you to plan accordingly. Here's how to maximize your time before a server wipe:
1. Harvest Valuable Resources:
Before the wipe, gather as many crucial resources as possible. This includes: Stone, Metal, Obsidian, Crystal, Polymer, and Cementing Paste. Stockpiling these will give you a significant head start after the wipe.
2. Breed High-Level Dinos:
If breeding high-level creatures, aim to hatch and imprint as many as possible before the wipe. This is especially beneficial if your server does not wipe tamed dinos. Imprinted dinos can be incredibly valuable, especially early in the game.
3. Secure Important Items:
Ensure you don't lose crucial items. This includes valuable engrams, blueprints, and saddles. Note that even if your inventory is wiped, some servers allow you to keep important schematics and blueprints. Check your server's rules for specifics.
4. Document Your Base Location:
While your base will be gone, taking screenshots or notes of your favorite spots on the map can help you quickly reclaim advantageous territory after the wipe.
5. Join a Tribe (or Create a Strong One):
Having a reliable tribe can significantly improve your chances of survival and success after a wipe. Working together makes resource gathering, base building, and dino taming much easier.
Post-Wipe Strategies for Success
The post-wipe period is crucial. Here are some tips to establish a strong foothold early on:
- Prioritize Resource Gathering: Focus on gathering basic resources to build a basic shelter and crafting tools.
- Locate a Safe Spawn Location: Find a location that offers easy access to resources and is somewhat defensible against early-game threats.
- Tame Early-Game Creatures: Start by taming reliable and easy-to-tame creatures like Dodos, Parasauropods, or Trikes. They can aid in resource gathering.
- Focus on Efficient Farming: Don't be afraid to dedicate time to building effective farms to ensure a consistent food supply.
Conclusion: Embrace the Wipe
Ark server wipes might seem frustrating at first, but they offer a fantastic opportunity to refine your strategies, try new approaches, and experience the game's early stages with fresh eyes. By preparing effectively and utilizing smart post-wipe strategies, you can dominate the island anew. Remember to always check your specific server's wipe schedule and rules for the most accurate and relevant information.
