Can my friend play on my ark server without me?

Can My Friend Play on My Ark Server Without Me?

In the popular survival game Ark: Survival Evolved, players often wonder if it’s possible to play with their friends on their own server without being online themselves. The answer is yes, but it requires some setup and understanding of the game’s mechanics. In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities and limitations of playing on a server without being online.

Direct Answer

To answer the question directly, your friend can play on your Ark server without you, but there are some conditions and limitations to consider. You must host a non-dedicated session on your server, which means you start a game session and your friend can join you without requiring a dedicated server. Additionally, your friend must be on the same network or connected to the same internet connection as your server.

What is a Non-Dedicated Session?

A non-dedicated session is a game session where you start the game and your friend joins you. This type of session does not require a dedicated server, and you can play together without the need for a third-party server. A dedicated server is a separate instance of the game that runs on a dedicated computer or machine, which is not required for a non-dedicated session.

Benefits of Non-Dedicated Session

The benefits of a non-dedicated session include:

• Easy to set up: You don’t need to worry about setting up a dedicated server, which can be a complex process.
• Low system requirements: You can play with your friend on a non-dedicated session with lower system requirements compared to a dedicated server.
• No maintenance required: You don’t need to worry about maintaining a dedicated server, which can be time-consuming.

Limitations of Non-Dedicated Session

While a non-dedicated session is convenient, there are some limitations to consider:

• Limited number of players: A non-dedicated session can only accommodate a limited number of players, typically 4-8 players depending on the game mode.
• Limited map size: The map size is limited, which can make it difficult to play with large groups or explore large maps.
• No server customization: You cannot customize the server settings, which may limit your ability to customize the game experience.

Can You Transfer Your Single Player World to a Non-Dedicated Server?

Another question that often arises is whether you can transfer your single-player world to a non-dedicated server. The answer is yes, but there are some limitations. You can transfer your world by copying the necessary files from your single-player game directory to the non-dedicated server directory. However, keep in mind that not all game modes are compatible, and you may need to convert your world to a different game mode before transferring it.

What Can and Cannot be Transferred between Servers?

When transferring your world between servers, there are some things you can and cannot transfer. Here’s a summary:

Conclusion

In conclusion, your friend can play on your Ark server without you, but it requires a non-dedicated session and some understanding of the game’s mechanics. While there are limitations to a non-dedicated session, it offers an easy and convenient way to play with your friend without requiring a dedicated server. By understanding what can and cannot be transferred between servers, you can make informed decisions about how to set up your game sessions. Happy gaming!