ARK: Aquatica, the long-awaited expansion for ARK: Survival Evolved, is finally confirmed with a release date of July 15. Announced earlier this year at GDC by Snail Games, this new expansion is set in a non-canonical underwater world that promises to immerse players in a vast, submerged environment. 
As described, the expansion features 95% of gameplay taking place beneath the surface, with above-water islands scattered throughout the map.
However, the excitement surrounding the release has been overshadowed by skepticism after a teaser trailer was released. Fans quickly pointed out that some of the visuals in the trailer appeared to be created using generative AI technology, leading to a wave of criticism. Many questioned the authenticity of the expansion’s content, while others even called for the trailer to be reported on Steam for possible AI-generated imagery.
Snail Games has faced further backlash as fans note that ARK: Aquatica is not being developed by the original ARK developer, Studio Wildcard. The studio distanced itself from the expansion, clarifying that it has no involvement in the project. At the same time, Studio Wildcard introduced ARK: Lost Colony, another expansion for ARK: Survival Ascended, which will lead into the highly anticipated sequel. Despite the excitement for these future projects, the delay of ARK 2 has left fans uncertain about its release.
Set in the first underwater ARK, Aquatica will challenge players with extreme environmental hazards and introduce unique survival mechanics, such as air pockets and propulsion vehicles. In total, there will be 21 new creatures to tame and 74 new Engrams, including seven Tek Engrams. Despite these exciting features, many fans are still doubtful, with some even claiming that the update could be a move to eliminate existing mods and plugins for the game.
The expansion, developed by Studio Sirens, is set to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of ARK: Survival Evolved and will be available exclusively on PC. The price remains undisclosed as of now, but fans are eager to see what it brings.