Short Answer: Yes, ARK: Survival Evolved can be played without a dedicated server using single-player mode or non-dedicated sessions. These options let you host games locally or invite friends without third-party server setups. However, non-dedicated servers have limitations like player tethering and reduced performance for large groups.
What Is Dedicated Hosting and How Does It Work?
What Are the Main Ways to Play ARK Without a Dedicated Server?
ARK offers two primary offline modes: Single-Player (solo gameplay) and Non-Dedicated Multiplayer (hosted on your device for up to 8 players). Single-player uses your local machine as both server and client, while non-dedicated sessions allow limited multiplayer with a “tether” restricting guest movement relative to the host.
How Does Single-Player Mode Work in ARK?
Single-player mode runs entirely on your device, with no internet required. You can customize settings like dinosaur spawn rates, harvest amounts, and difficulty. Progress is saved locally, but mods from Steam Workshop can still be used. This mode is ideal for learning game mechanics or building without PvP threats.
What Are the Limitations of Non-Dedicated Servers?
Non-dedicated servers enforce a tether distance, forcing players to stay within 180-300 meters of the host. The host’s hardware handles all computations, leading to lag with multiple players. Sessions end when the host logs off, and map/character data is stored only on the host’s device, risking data loss if files corrupt.
The tether mechanic becomes especially problematic during exploration missions or base-building projects where players need to split up. For example, one player can’t scout a mountain while another mines metal in a valley. This limitation also affects boss fights requiring coordinated positioning. Additionally, the host’s internet upload speed directly impacts connection quality – if their bandwidth drops below 5 Mbps, players may experience rubber-banding or disconnections.
Can You Use Mods in Non-Dedicated ARK Sessions?
Yes, mods from Steam Workshop work in non-dedicated sessions if all players subscribe to the same mods. The host must download mods before launching the session. Large mods like Primal Fear or Ark Eternal may cause crashes on weaker hardware, so test stability before inviting others.
How to Improve Performance in Hosted ARK Games?
Optimize performance by lowering in-game graphics settings, reducing player tether distance, and limiting active dinosaurs via “Dino Count” sliders. Close background apps to free RAM. Use SSDs for faster map loading. For PC hosts, allocate more VRAM via launch parameters like “-sm4 -d3d10” to prioritize stability over visuals.
| Setting | Recommendation | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| View Distance | Medium | Reduces GPU load by 40% |
| Texture Quality | Low | Saves 2GB VRAM |
| Shadow Effects | Disabled | Improves FPS by 25% |
Using the “Prevent Hibernation” command prevents structures from unloading when players leave an area, reducing lag spikes during travel. Allocate at least 16GB RAM for hosting 4+ players, and disable Steam overlay to free up system resources. For console hosts, hardwiring via Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi can reduce latency by up to 60ms.
“Non-dedicated servers are a double-edged sword. They eliminate monthly hosting fees but sacrifice scalability. For small groups, they’re practical, but I recommend upgrading to a dedicated server once you exceed four players or want to explore ARK’s full map without tether restrictions.” — Liam Carter, Survival Game Hosting Specialist
Conclusion
Playing ARK without a dedicated server is feasible for solo adventurers or small groups. While single-player and non-dedicated modes offer flexibility, they lack the stability and freedom of dedicated setups. Evaluate your group size and gameplay goals to choose the best option.
FAQs
- Does ARK Single-Player Require an Internet Connection?
- No, single-player mode works offline. However, downloading updates or mods requires internet access.
- Can Non-Dedicated Servers Support Cross-Platform Play?
- No. Non-dedicated sessions are platform-specific. Xbox players can’t join PC-hosted games unless using Xbox Play Anywhere or cross-play-enabled dedicated servers.
- How to Transfer Single-Player Progress to a Dedicated Server?
- Upload your character and dinosaurs at an Obelisk or Terminal, then download them on the new server. Note: Some modded items may not transfer if the dedicated server lacks matching mods.