Ark Valguero is the newest large-scale expansion for the popular survival game, bringing new biomes, creatures, and tech to console players. This update significantly changes the late-game experience on PlayStation and Xbox platforms, so understanding the timing and requirements is essential.
With cross-platform play already live, the console release of Valguero aligns with PC and mobile availability, streamlining progression for players on all systems. Below is a quick reference to key details you need before diving in.
| Platform | Release Date | Patch Version | Required DLC |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 4 | June 2020 | 317.407 | ARK: Valguero DLC |
| Xbox One | June 2020 | 317.407 | ARK: Valguero DLC |
| Steam | June 3, 2020 | 317.407 | ARK: Valguero DLC |
| Epic Games | June 3, 2020 | 317.407 | ARK: Valguero DLC |
Exploring Valguero Biomes and Geography
Desert and Mountain Regions
Valguero introduces sweeping desert plateaus and towering mountain chains that reshape exploration. These new zones feature unique resource nodes, hidden caves, and distinctive weather patterns that affect visibility and traversal. Players need adapted gear to survive the extreme heat of the arid lowlands and the frigid peaks above.
River Deltas and Coastal Areas
Fertile river deltas and expanded coastlines give Valguero a lush, vibrant feel compared to older maps. Aquatic creatures patrol the waterways, making boat travel both a practical transport method and a tactical decision. Resource-rich wetlands encourage base building near water while increasing the risk from predators lurking nearby.
New Creatures, Taming, and Combat Systems
Wyverns and Reptilian Allies
Valguero expands the creature roster with wyverns and several new tamed reptiles that open aerial and ground synergy options. Each mount brings specialized abilities, such as area gliding and terrain-based damage boosts, which reshape hunting and PvP tactics. Mastering their controls becomes essential for efficient exploration and boss encounters.
Boss Fights and Territory Control
The expansion introduces larger boss mechanics that demand coordinated taming teams and strategic positioning. Controlling key resource zones requires defending against both rival players and aggressive AI creatures. Building layered defenses around nests and resource nodes becomes a core part of long-term success.
Multiplayer Dynamics and Server Structures
PvE and PvP Server Rules
Valguero launched on both PvE and PvP servers, each with adjusted loot and taming rates to suit different playstyles. Server admins can tweak multipliers for experience, damage, and resource gathering to fine-tune pacing. Understanding your server type influences whether you prioritize stealth, diplomacy, or outright conquest.
Tribe Alliances and Diplomacy
The updated diplomacy system enables truces, non-aggression pacts, and resource-sharing agreements between tribes. These alliances affect territorial claims and shared defense against common threats. Communication and clear agreements become vital when staging joint expeditions or defending border bases.
Performance, Settings, and Optimization on Consoles
Hardware Requirements and Frame Rates
Console specifications for Valguero remain consistent across PlayStation and Xbox generations, with optimizations aimed at stable frame rates during large battles. Lower-tier consoles may require adjusted graphic settings to maintain smooth performance during peak action. Regular updates continue to refine loading times and reduce in-game stutter.
Graphics and Accessibility Options
Expanded colorblind modes and subtitle settings make Valguero more accessible to a wider audience. Visual quality settings allow players to balance detail with performance based on their hardware capabilities. These options ensure that more players can enjoy the new environments and creature designs without sacrificing clarity.
Final Resource Management and Progression Tips
- Verify that your console has the latest system software and game patch before installing Valguero.
- Back up your save files using console cloud storage or manual exports when testing new mechanics.
- Focus on flexible base layouts that can adapt to new creature abilities and environmental hazards.
- Coordinate with tribe members to share scouting duties and split resource-gathering routes efficiently.
- Monitor server-specific rate settings to align your progression pace with your playstyle and schedule.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Valguero included with the base ARK game on console?
Yes, Valguero is included with the standard edition of ARK: Survival Evolved on console and does not require a separate purchase if you already own the base game.
Do I need the Valguero DLC on console to join a cross-platform session?
On console, you need the Valguero DLC installed to participate in cross-platform sessions with PC and mobile players who have the expansion enabled.
Can I transfer my existing console progress into Valguero maps?
Cross-map transfers are not supported at launch, so migrating saves typically requires starting with a clean world or using approved third-party tools that align with platform policies.
What happens to my existing base when Valguero updates release?
Existing bases on older maps remain intact, and you can choose when to explore Valguero without immediately relocating your structures. Seasonal events and tribe competitions may offer incentives to expand into the new regions over time.
Are boss respawn timers different in Valguero compared to original maps?
Boss respawn timers are adjusted in Valguero to accommodate the expanded map layout, but the core mechanics remain similar. Coordinated taming teams can manage spawn windows more effectively with proper scouting and preparation.