The wait is finally over. While holders of the Lost Colony Expansion Pass have enjoyed early access to potent new mechanics and gear, the release of the full Lost Colony DLC marks the arrival of the complete experience for ARK: Survival Ascended. This is no longer just about tools and items; it is about the world they belong to. The DLC introduces the massive new map Arat Prime, exclusive creatures, and the first canonical story expansion since Genesis Part II. We’ll break down how this update serves as the vital bridge between Extinction and Genesis, setting the stage for the events of ARK 2 while refining the survival features you know into a masterpiece.
Arat Prime: The Cradle of the ARKs
The centerpiece of the DLC is Arat Prime, a map that stands in stark contrast to anything survivors have faced before. While the Expansion Pass introduced us to the technology of this era, the full DLC finally lets us step onto the frozen, gothic landscape of the Necrocene, where it all began. Survivors must navigate a diverse range of hostile biomes, from the oppressive skyscrapers of the Lost King’s Metropolis to the eerie, bioluminescent beauty of the Twilight Forest. You will traverse the Caldera, a volcanic crater housing ancient secrets, and survive the crushing cold of the Tundra. Here, the environment is a narrative device, revealing the origins of the ARKs and the desperate battles fought after the events of Extinction.
A Complete Roster of New Creatures
The Lost Colony DLC brings together a diverse array of lifeforms. Whether they are brand new to the DLC or fully realized versions of Expansion Pass creatures, they all have a home in Arat Prime.
Ossidon: Forged by Red Element and the unforgiving cold, the Ossidon is a titan of endurance. This massive primate utilizes “frozen alchemy” to survive conditions that would shatter lesser creatures. It serves as the ultimate tank, with a physical form that dynamically evolves based on its stats—growing denser fur or sharper ice crests as it gains power. Bonding with an Ossidon means piloting a living fortress.
Gloon: An enigma wrapped in bioluminescence, the Gloon is a crucial tool for navigating the pitch-black wastes. This peculiar entity emits a light that does more than illuminate—it manipulates. Smart survivors can use its glow to soothe aggressive wildlife or, if the situation demands, send them into a blind frenzy. Whether you find it charming or creepy, the Gloon is essential for survival in the dark.
Aureliax: Reigning over the highest peaks of Arat Prime, this “Celestial Dragon” is a master of gravity and judgment. It is not merely a beast to be tamed but a force to be reckoned with. Utilizing telekinesis to dominate the skies, the Aureliax presents survivors with a stark choice: harmony or obliteration. Securing this apex predator requires proving your worth.
Veilwyn: The Veilwyn offers a unique evolutionary path, allowing you to tailor your companion to your specific needs. Keep it as a defensive guardian, or trigger a metamorphosis to unlock its full potential. The Solwyn emerges as a beacon of light, a glider capable of rapid traversal and fiercely protecting its rider from rear attacks. In contrast, the Malwyn is born of shadow, a ruthlessly efficient hunter designed to cripple enemies with debuffs and raw speed. The choice is yours: absolute protection or lethal precision.
Beyond these headline beasts, the ecosystem of Arat Prime is teeming with both familiar threats and mutated horrors. Survivors will encounter returning creatures like the Desmodus and Cryolophosaurus, now roaming the frozen wastes. Be on the lookout for the terrifying Gigadesmodus and the swarm-like Neophytes that stalk the darkness, ensuring that both veteran survivors and newcomers face fresh challenges in the Necrocene.
Command an Army: The Human NPC System
For the first time in the franchise’s history, you are no longer the only human fighting for dominance. The Lost Colony DLC introduces the Thrall System, allowing you to recruit AI-controlled human soldiers to your tribe.
- Recruit the Damned: Earn the trust of the Lost King’s soldiers or force their submission to add them to your ranks.
- Tactical Roles: Assign your Thralls to specific jobs. Set them to Guard Mode to defend your perimeter, Logistics Mode to sort your inventory, or Harvest Mode to gather resources while you explore.
- Deep Customization: Tailor your army to your playstyle by assigning unique Traits, choosing a Specialized Combat Class, or training them as a Beast Rider to mount your tames into battle.
- Total Possession: Need to scout a dangerous area? You can assume direct control of any Thrall via neural link, using them as expendable scouts or frontline warriors.
Revolutionary Tech & The “Lost” Systems
Survival in Arat Prime requires advanced technology. This expansion introduces a massive arsenal to help you establish a foothold in the Necrocene, headlined by the Template Hammer for instantly replicating base sections and the TEK Bunker for deploying safe, underground structures. Combat evolves with the versatile Fabricated Crossbow and the teleporting Tek Spear, while the sinister Bloodforge allows you to repair items using blood instead of resources. These are just a highlight of the many new items and structures waiting to be discovered to aid your survival.
These tools are supported by the fully realized Lost Skill Tree, giving you unprecedented control over your character’s progression. Players can now specialize with unique perks across three distinct paths: Wayfarer for exploration, Beastmaster for creature command, and Utility for support and crafting. When combined with the new weaponry and structures, these specializations ensure that every survivor can carve out their own unique dominance within the frozen wastes of the Lost Colony.
A Cinematic Story
This expansion is a major narrative event and tells the critical chapter connecting Extinction to Genesis. The story is brought to life through stunning anime cinematic sequences produced by MAPPA (the studio behind Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, Chainsaw Man, and many more), featuring an incredible cast of talent.
Michelle Yeoh returns to voice the legendary Mei Yin, while Keith David steps into the role of the formidable antagonist known as the Lost King (unofficial name). They are joined by a powerhouse ensemble including David Tennant (Rockwell), Madeleine Madden (Helena), Auli’i Cravalho (Meeka), Katee Sackhoff (Diana), and Karl Urban (Bob). These visual stories reveal the fate of the original survivors and pave the way for the future of the franchise in ARK 2.
Uncover the Secrets of Arat Prime
Arat Prime is a dangerous place to explore alone. Whether you are uncovering the secrets of the Aureliax or building a fortress with the new Template Hammer, the best way to experience the Lost Colony is with a tribe on your own terms. With full control over your settings, you can adjust the difficulty of the frozen wastes to match your playstyle. Jump in today and discover the truth behind the ARKs!
