ARK Survival Ascended Ragnarok, marking the fifth official map transition from ARK Survival Evolved (ASE), is set to launch on June 18, 2025. Although its initial release was anticipated for April, this delay is justifiable as the game is undergoing a significant overhaul with an upgrade to Unreal Engine 5.5 on June 2. Ragnarok will be the inaugural map to leverage the enhancements provided by this upgrade.
This expansive map, featuring diverse terrains ranging from the lush rolling highlands filled with Ovis flocks to arid, dusty dunes, is one of the largest introduced in the ARK universe. Its transition to the remastered UE5 version is highly anticipated by the player community.
On June 2, the game will also undergo a restructuring of its file management, which is designed to reduce the overall size of the base download for ARK Survival Ascended. As a result, players may need to reinstall all existing ARK maps, including Scorched Earth, The Center, Aberration, and Extinction, along with their assets. This will likewise apply to Ragnarok Ascended upon its release.
What Additional Content Awaits with ARK Survival Ascended Ragnarok on June 18?

Consistent with previous map updates, Ragnarok Ascended will be available as a complimentary download for all players. This aspect ensures that the entire ARK community can enjoy the newly enhanced experiences without additional costs.
Upcoming DLC Content on June 18
Studio Wildcard will not be combining the launch of Ragnarok Ascended with any additional side-content like Bob’s Tall Tales. However, it’s noteworthy that they will be releasing a Day Zero Expansion Pass for ARK Lost Colony on the same date.
While the main Lost Colony expansion is slated for release in November 2025, the developers have teased exclusive gameplay options within the expansion pass, details of which are expected to be revealed in the forthcoming weeks. Keep an eye out for further updates!
An Introduction to the Bison
In terms of new content, Ragnarok Ascended will include a community-chosen creature: the Bison. While precise details about its abilities are still forthcoming, some foundational aspects have been confirmed.
According to the official dossier, female Bisons will produce milk that can be used in unique recipes with beneficial nutritional properties, potentially even for taming baby Wyverns. Meanwhile, male Bisons will serve as sturdy companions, equipped with a charge ability, ideal for transporting goods across the vast landscapes.
Here’s a closer look at what’s known about the Bison and its potential impact on gameplay.
Key Features of Ragnarok Ascended in the Enhanced Unreal Engine
For those unfamiliar with the original Ragnarok map, it’s essential to note that this map is widely regarded as one of the standout features of ARK Survival Evolved. It was the first official map to introduce unique bosses and high-level dinosaurs available from the start, which added significant appeal to the gameplay.
Despite its acclaim, Ragnarok has faced several issues and inconsistencies over the years, making the launch of Ragnarok Ascended a vital opportunity to refine and enhance the experience it was always designed to deliver.
As indicated by level designer Jackson Lawrence, much of the map’s layout will remain true to its original form, while also incorporating artistic revisions. This includes redesigned Labyrinths that present new challenges with higher stakes, and players can expect that Griffins will now be breedable along with some new features for Ice Wyverns.
- Female Bisons provide milk with unique properties.
- Male Bisons are sturdy companions capable of charging.
- Ragnarok Ascended will feature enhanced graphics and gameplay mechanics.
- Some original challenges and bosses will return, with new twists.