As Ark Survival Ascended continues its journey through all of Survival Evolved’s expansions, along comes an unexpected twist. Many fans anticipated that completing this lineup would usher in Ark 2. Unfortunately, the much-awaited sequel remains elusive. Instead, players are in for a treat with the introduction of an all-original expansion called Lost Colony. This new chapter promises to set the stage for Ark 2, boasting a fresh icy landscape, a cast full of fan-favorites, and even some high-profile voices. Studio Wildcard has also marked the calendar for its release.
Last year, I managed to uncover a few intriguing tidbits about Lost Colony. This new expansion transports players to a wintry realm, weaving connections from previous Ark narratives while teasing future developments for Ark 2. Now, with the full reveal out in the open, there’s a wealth of information about what this new survival escapade will entail.
In Lost Colony, players will step into the role of Mei Yin—a familiar character for those who’ve watched the Ark animated series on Paramount+. Tasked with exploring the frozen expanse of Arat Prime, players are reintroduced to a location long hinted at within the Ark universe. According to the latest trailer’s YouTube description, Arat Prime isn’t just an icy wasteland; it’s a key narrative location described as “the birthplace of the Arks.” It’s also a battleground, where twisted, Element-powered factions are locked in a conflict trying to unravel the achievements from the end of Ark Extinction.
The star-studded lineup includes Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh reprising her role as Mei Yin, alongside Madeleine Madden. Excitingly, Auli’i Cravalho, known for voicing Moana, joins the cast as Meeka, Santiago’s daughter, from Ark 2.
Studio Wildcard packs the expansion with more than just storyline and fresh settings. Players will get to explore new ‘Lost’ character ability trees, tame exotic creatures, craft unique ‘Cursed’ gear, and master intricate new building systems.
This eagerly anticipated Lost Colony expansion is set for pre-orders in June this year, with a planned release in November 2025, according to Studio Wildcard.
It’s good to have a timeline, but it also signals that Ark 2 won’t be gracing us anytime soon. Initially set for a 2024 release, Ark 2 has been delayed, leaving fans in the dark about its progress. Given Lost Colony’s function in setting up its narrative, it seems Ark 2 won’t make its debut before the expansion takes the spotlight. Allowing Lost Colony time to shine makes a 2025 release for Ark 2 unlikely, pointing towards a potential 2026 release date.
In the meantime, there are plenty of fantastic dinosaur and building games out there to sink your teeth into. You might find these a great way to pass the time while waiting for Lost Colony.
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