"Ark Fans Criticize AI-Generated Content in Expansion Trailer"

The latest trailer for the new Ark: Survival Evolved expansion, Ark: Aquatica, released by publisher Snail Games, has sparked a wave of backlash within the Ark community. The trailer, unveiled following Snail Games’ announcement at GDC about their “in-house developed new expansion map,” showcases an ambitious underwater setting where 95% of the gameplay occurs beneath the surface. However, instead of excitement, the trailer has drawn sharp criticism for its use of what appears to be low-quality generative AI imagery.

Irish YouTuber Syntac, a prominent figure in the Ark community with over 1.9 million subscribers, expressed his strong disapproval in a comment that currently holds the top spot on the trailer's page: “This is disgusting and you should be ashamed of yourselves.” The sentiment is echoed throughout the comments section, with viewers labeling the trailer as “pathetic” and “embarrassing.” The trailer features numerous instances of AI-generated visual errors, including fish that blur in and out of existence, a deformed hand gripping a spear gun, a floating octopus in front of an ambiguous shipwreck, and human feet that morph into flippers.

In response to the uproar, original Ark: Survival Evolved developer Studio Wildcard has publicly distanced itself from the project, stating on social media that Ark: Aquatica is not developed by their team. They reaffirmed their commitment to their ongoing projects, stating, “Studio Wildcard remains entirely dedicated to the production of Ark: Survival Ascended & Ark 2, and we’re excited to bring Ark: Lost Colony to you later this year!”

Amidst uncertainties about the future of Ark 2, which missed its planned late 2024 release, Studio Wildcard confirmed this week that development on the sequel is still progressing. Additionally, they announced Ark: Lost Colony, a new expansion for Ark: Survival Ascended that will serve as a prelude to the sequel.

Notably, actress Michelle Yeoh, known for her role in Ark: The Animated Series, makes an appearance in the Ark: Aquatica trailer.