Welcome to our complete guide on how to join a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC. If you’re an avid player of this popular action-adventure game, you may want to invite friends to play with you on a non-dedicated server. It’s a great way to have a more personalized experience and play together with your friends. However, joining a non-dedicated server can be a bit tricky, especially for new players.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to join a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC. From launching Ark on your PC to configuring your server settings and inviting your friends to join, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions to make the process as simple as possible. We’ll also share some tips and tricks along the way to help you get the most out of your non-dedicated server experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned Ark player or a newcomer to the game, our guide will help you navigate the world of non-dedicated servers and get you playing with your friends in no time. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of Ark non-dedicated servers together!
Read on to discover how you can easily join a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC and start playing with your friends today!
Step 1: Launch Ark on your PC
Launching Ark on your PC is the first step in joining a non-dedicated server. To do so, navigate to the Ark game icon on your desktop and double-click it. Wait for the game to load before proceeding to the next step. If you haven’t downloaded and installed Ark on your PC yet, make sure to do that before proceeding with this guide.
Once you’re inside Ark, you’ll be prompted to select between single-player and multiplayer modes. Since you’re looking to join a non-dedicated server, choose multiplayer mode to proceed. You’ll then be presented with a list of options, which includes joining an existing server, creating a new one, or hosting a non-dedicated server. Choose the “Host / Local” option to proceed to the next step.
It’s worth noting that the exact steps to launch Ark may differ slightly depending on your operating system and version of the game. However, the basic principles remain the same across all platforms. If you’re having trouble launching Ark on your PC, refer to the game’s official documentation or contact their support team for assistance.
Step 1: Launch Ark on your PC
Find Ark in your Steam library
If you purchased Ark through Steam, you will need to open your Steam client to launch the game. First, locate the Steam library tab and click on it. You should see all of the games you own on Steam listed here, including Ark: Survival Evolved. If you have a lot of games in your library, you can use the search bar at the top of the screen to search for “Ark.”
Once you have found Ark in your library, you can click on it to select it. After that, click on the blue “Play” button to start the game. If you have never played Ark before, you may be prompted to install the game first. Follow the instructions provided by Steam to complete the installation process.
If you have a shortcut for Ark on your desktop, you can also use that to launch the game. Double-click on the shortcut to open the game and start playing.
Once you have launched Ark on your PC, you will be taken to the main menu. From here, you can choose between the different modes of the game. To join a non-dedicated server, you need to select “Host / Local”. This option will allow you to host a server that you can play with your friends.
After selecting “Host / Local”, you will be prompted to select the map you want to play on. Choose the map you want to play on and then click “Host Non-Dedicated Server”. This will create a server that you and your friends can play on together.
Once you have created your non-dedicated server, you will be taken to the game lobby. This is where you can configure your server settings and invite your friends to join your server.
After launching Ark on your PC, you will be taken to the main menu. Look for the “Host / Local” option and click on it to start hosting your own game.
Once you have clicked “Host / Local”, you will see the following options:
- Host Non-Dedicated Session: This option allows you to host a game that your friends can join, but only when you’re online.
- Host Dedicated Server: This option allows you to host a game that runs on a dedicated server, so your friends can join even when you’re offline.
- Play Single Player: This option allows you to play Ark by yourself, without anyone else joining your game.
For the purposes of this guide, we’ll be focusing on the “Host Non-Dedicated Session” option.
Select “Single Player” if you want to play alone
Step 1: From the “Host / Local” menu, select “Single Player” if you want to play alone.
Step 2: Choose a map and customize your settings. You can also choose to start from scratch or use an existing saved game.
Step 3: Click “Create New ARK” to start your single player game.
If you want to play Ark without anyone else, selecting “Single Player” is the way to go. This option allows you to play on your own and enjoy the game at your own pace without any interruptions. You can choose the map, the settings, and the game mode that best suits your preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, single player mode is a great way to learn the game mechanics and explore the world of Ark.
Select “Non-Dedicated” if you want to play with friends
If you want to play with your friends on your own server, select “Non-Dedicated” from the list of options. This will allow you to host a game that only your friends can join, with you as the host.
It’s important to note that playing on a non-dedicated server means your game will be limited by the host’s hardware and internet connection. If the host’s computer or internet is not powerful enough, it may result in lag or other performance issues.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that the host’s character will be the anchor for the game. If the host’s character leaves the game or crashes, the game will end for everyone playing on the server.
Step 3: Configure your server settings
Once you have selected your desired game mode, you will be taken to the server settings screen. This screen allows you to configure your server to your liking, including changing the map, setting the game mode, and adjusting the difficulty.
Make sure to set the “Max Players” option to the number of people you want to play with. You can also set a password for your server to prevent unwanted players from joining.
Other settings that you may want to adjust include the “Taming Speed,” “Harvesting Multiplier,” and “XP Multiplier.” These settings can greatly affect the pace of your game, so be sure to choose values that suit your play style.
Server Name: Choose a name for your server that you and your friends will recognize. This can be changed later if needed.
Password: If you want to keep your server private, set a password that only you and your friends know. This will prevent random players from joining.
Other Settings: You can adjust other settings such as game difficulty, taming speed, and resource harvesting rates to your liking. Experiment with different settings to find the right balance for your group.
Once you have configured your settings, click “Host Non-Dedicated Server” to launch your game. Your friends can now join your game by opening the Ark server browser and looking for your server name. Joining a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC is a great way to enjoy the game with your friends in a private setting. Have fun exploring the world of Ark together!
Choose the map and any mods you want to use
After configuring the basic settings, it’s time to choose the map where you want to play. You can select from the default maps or download and install custom maps from the Steam Workshop.
If you want to enhance your game experience, you can also add mods to your server. Some mods can improve the graphics, while others add new creatures, items, and gameplay mechanics.
Make sure to select the appropriate mods that match the version of the game you’re running, as mods designed for a different version may cause compatibility issues.
Step 4: Invite your friends to join your non-dedicated server
Share your IP address: In order for your friends to join your non-dedicated server, you need to share your IP address with them. You can find your IP address by typing “ipconfig” into the command prompt or by using a website like WhatIsMyIP.
Give them your server name and password: Once your friends have your IP address, they need to launch ARK and select “Join ARK” from the main menu. They will then enter your server name and password to join your game.
Make sure you have enough player slots: Non-dedicated servers have limited player slots, so make sure you have enough slots available for all your friends who want to join.
Have your friends connect to your Wi-Fi: If your friends are in the same location as you, they can connect to your Wi-Fi network and join your non-dedicated server that way. This method may result in lower latency and smoother gameplay.
After starting your non-dedicated server, you can invite your friends to join your game. To do so, open the pause menu by pressing ESC, and then click on “Invite Friends”.
From here, you can select which of your friends you want to invite to your game. You can also choose whether to invite them through Steam or Epic Games, depending on which platform you and your friends are playing on.
Once you’ve selected the friends you want to invite, click “Send Invites” and they will receive an invitation to join your game. You can invite up to 7 other players to your non-dedicated server.
Select the friends you want to invite from your Steam friends list
Once you click on “Invite Friends” in the pause menu, a new window will appear with your Steam friends list. You can scroll through your list to find the friends you want to invite to your non-dedicated server.
If you can’t find the friend you want to invite, make sure they are online and that you are both using the same version of the game.
Click on the friends you want to invite to select them. Their names will be highlighted in blue.
After selecting your friends, click the “Invite” button to send them an invitation to join your game. They will receive the invitation in their Steam chat window and can join your game by clicking on the invitation.
Step 5: Have your friends join your server
Once you have invited your friends to your non-dedicated server, they can join by following these steps:
Step 1: Open the pause menu in ARK: Survival Evolved
Step 2: Click “Join ARK”
Step 3: Select “Unofficial PC Session”
Step 4: Look for your server in the list and select it to join
Make sure to provide your friends with the correct server name and password, if you set one up. Once they join, they should appear in your game as a survivor, and you can play together in your non-dedicated server!
Your friends should accept the invite and join your game
Once your friends receive the invite, they should accept it to join your non-dedicated server. They can do this by clicking on the “Join Game” button in the invite message. This will launch the game and take them directly to your server.
If your friends are unable to join the server, make sure that your server settings are correct and that you have opened the necessary ports on your router. You may also want to try inviting them again or restarting your game.
Once your friends have joined your game, you can start playing together. Have fun exploring the game world and completing missions together!
Step 6: Start playing together on your non-dedicated server!
Now that your friends have joined your non-dedicated server, you can start playing together! Explore the world, gather resources, build structures, and defend against dangerous creatures. Remember to communicate with each other to coordinate your actions and ensure everyone has a fun experience.
If you want to adjust the server settings during gameplay, simply press the “Escape” key to open the pause menu and click on the “Settings” button. From there, you can modify various options such as the time of day, weather, and player damage.
Keep in mind that your non-dedicated server will only be available when you or one of your invited friends is online. Once everyone has left the server, it will be shut down until someone starts it up again.
Enjoy playing with your friends on your non-dedicated server and have a great time!
Explore the Ark world with your friends
Now that you’ve set up your non-dedicated server and invited your friends, it’s time to start exploring the vast and dangerous world of Ark together!
Take on the game’s many challenges, such as taming and breeding creatures, building and defending bases, and fighting against other players or dangerous wildlife.
Work together to gather resources, discover new locations, and complete objectives. You’ll find that playing with friends not only makes the game more enjoyable, but also allows you to accomplish more and progress faster.
Survive and thrive together in this prehistoric world
With your friends by your side, you’ll have a better chance of surviving the dangers of the Ark world. You can work together to gather resources, build shelter, and fend off dangerous creatures.
As you progress, you can even tame dinosaurs and use them to help you with your tasks. From tiny companions like the dodo to massive creatures like the T-Rex, the possibilities are endless.
But be careful, as the Ark world is full of challenges and dangers. You’ll need to work together and use your skills to overcome obstacles and stay alive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC?
A non-dedicated server in Ark on PC is a server that is hosted by one player and allows a limited number of players to join and play together.
How do I join a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC?
To join a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC, you need to be invited by the host player and accept the invitation through the in-game invite system.
How many players can join a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC?
A non-dedicated server in Ark on PC can accommodate a limited number of players, usually up to 8 players depending on the host player’s internet connection and computer specs.
What are the advantages of playing on a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC?
The advantages of playing on a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC include playing with a smaller group of friends, more control over the server’s settings, and the ability to pause the game and take breaks as needed.
What are the disadvantages of playing on a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC?
The disadvantages of playing on a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC include limited player capacity, potential lag or connectivity issues depending on the host player’s internet connection, and the inability to play if the host player is not online.