The long-awaited *ARK 2* is back in focus after concerns grew that the sequel may have run into serious development issues—or worse, been quietly shelved. Developer Studio Wildcard has officially confirmed a new plan with the announcement of *ARK: Lost Colony*, an original expansion for *ARK: Survival Ascended*, which serves as a direct bridge to *ARK 2*. This fresh update brings renewed excitement and clarity regarding the future of the franchise.

Introducing ARK: Lost Colony

As the first major standalone expansion for *ARK: Survival Ascended*, *ARK: Lost Colony* sets a cinematic tone for what's ahead in *ARK 2*. The reveal trailer was crafted by acclaimed anime studio MAPPA—known for hits like *Jujutsu Kaisen*, *Attack on Titan*, and *Chainsaw Man*—and features voice narration from Michelle Yeoh reprising her role as Mei Yin from *ARK: The Animated Series*.

Studio Wildcard emphasized that *ARK: Lost Colony* will feature high-quality animated storytelling sequences produced by MAPPA, raising the bar for narrative immersion in the *ARK* universe. According to the official description:

In this new frozen world, players follow in the footsteps of legendary Ark survivor Mei Yin on a soul-searching journey into the icy depths of darkness to uncover long-hidden secrets of Ark’s past.

ARK: Lost Colony introduces thrilling new challenges where survivors become the hunted in a vast occupied city. Players will gain access to powerful new character abilities, unique gear, advanced building systems, and exotic tames unlike anything seen before.

Will Survivors finally confront the lurking horrors of Arat Prime and piece together the connection between Ark’s past and its future?

Connecting the ARK Storyline

Wildcard clarified that *ARK: Lost Colony* acts as a critical narrative link between the *Extinction* and *Genesis* expansions and directly leads into the events of *ARK 2*. This ensures continuity for players who have followed the evolving lore across previous chapters.

What About ARK 2?

*ARK 2* is the highly anticipated Unreal Engine 5-powered sequel to the wildly successful survival game ARK: Survival Evolved. Initially announced at The Game Awards 2020 with a surprise appearance by Vin Diesel, it originally had a 2022 release window. However, multiple delays pushed it to 2023, then again to late 2024 as an Xbox Series X|S exclusive, arriving day-one on Xbox Game Pass, with PC versions available via Steam and Windows.

Despite missing its late 2024 deadline, Studio Wildcard reiterated as recently as December 2023 that the project remained on track. Now, three months into 2025, this latest update signals continued progress, although no updated release date for *ARK 2* was provided. Fans remain hopeful but cautious.

ARK: Lost Colony – Release Details

Thankfully, more concrete details are available for *ARK: Lost Colony*. Pre-orders will begin in June 2025, with early access content becoming immediately available to those who purchase. The full expansion launches later this year in November 2025 and will be available for $29.99 across Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC platforms.