Studio Wildcard has announced that a massive new map is being released as a free ARK Survival Evolved update today.
The Valguero map expansion is going live right on Steam, followed by PS4 and Xbox One at a later date.
For now, fans on Steam will be getting the first chance to test out the new 63 km map, with the rollout scheduled for today.
As confirmed by Studio Wildcard earlier this week, the new Valguero expansion is free to everyone with a copy of ARK.
Wildcard has revealed that the map will boast new biomes to explore, an exclusive new dinosaur to encounter and plenty of challenging bosses.
The new patch will be around 7GB to download and will include the Deinonychus, an untamable, but a rideable new dinosaur.
“Witness familiar ARK creatures in an expansive environment and meet, Deinonychus, ARK’s newest feathered theropod, found only in Valguero,” Studio Wildcard reveals in a new post.
“Explore new heights and hidden depths; whether it’s creating your foundations in the White Cliffs or unearthing the secrets of the Aberration Trench, Valguero offers a new experience in the ARK universe.
“With new biomes, challenging dungeon bosses, and mysterious ruins to discover, there’s always something exciting — and dangerous — on Valguero.
“Among its more than 60 kilometers, you’ll find everything from lush jungles to environmental hazards, snowfields to lava flows, and savannahs to hot springs.”
Here is more information on those new biomes to explore, courtesy of Studio Wildcard:
What unique biomes will I find in the Valguero?
The White Cliffs Biome – From sprawling green flatlands encompassed by massive white rocks, to narrow canyons and tall plateaus, the White Cliffs are the perfect location for building your base.
Tundra Biome – Dry and arid foliage covers the rolling hills of dying grass and desolate fir trees in this biome. A cold and unforgiving place, the Tundra is a place to tread lightly.
Savannah Biome – Nestled adjacent to the Jungle biome atop a cliffside, the Savannah is a cosy starting location to build in relative safety amongst its dry and open fields.
Aberration Biome – The first official mod map to include a large fertile chamber unique to Valguero! This massive cave is a great location to find some of your favourite Aberration dinos, and find a safe place to call home underground.
What unique creatures will I find on Valguero?
“While exploring Valguero, Ark players will run into our newest dinosaur yet, the Deinonychus! The Deinonychus is fiercely territorial in the wild. They will protect their nests against any who dare to trespass.”
The new ARK Survival Evolved update is scheduled to go live today on PC, followed by PS4 and Xbox One consoles next month.
This is the usual time frame for major ARK expansions, with consoles gamers having to wait longer due to the lengthy certification process.
The good news is that Wildcard has confirmed that it will only be a month wait before the new map is available on PS4 and Xbox One. But until we have a confirmed launch day and time, console gamers should be prepared for any delays.