Man, I finally got around to playing that “Aberration” expansion for Ark. I had heard things, seen some videos, but actually getting in there and experiencing it myself? Whole different ball game. Let me tell you about it.
So, I started out just like any other map. I picked a spot, spawned in, and immediately got to work punching trees and picking up rocks. Gotta get those basics, you know? But the first thing I noticed was how freaking dark it was. Like, I could barely see my own hands in front of my face. I figured it was just nighttime, but it never really got brighter. Turns out, that’s just how Aberration is – perpetually dark and gloomy.
I was exploring, trying to find a good place to set up a little starter base, when I stumbled upon this weird-looking dog thing. I later learned it’s called a “Ravager”. Now, I’m not usually one to tame things right away, but this guy looked tough, and I was feeling a little vulnerable in this new, dark place. Plus, I saw a pack of them, and word on the street is that they get a bonus when they’re in a group. So, I knocked one out – that was an ordeal, let me tell you, those things are fast! – fed it some meat, and boom, I had my first Aberration tame.
And man, am I glad I did. These Ravagers are amazing. They can carry a ton of stuff, they’re pretty quick, and they hit like a truck. But the coolest part? They can ride ziplines! I found a few of those strung up around the map, and it’s such a fun way to get around, though my first few attempts were more falling than riding, I’ll be honest.
I also found out that most of the creatures in this place are what they call “Aberrant”. They’re basically mutated versions of the regular Ark animals. I ran into a few Aberrant Raptors, and they looked all glowy and cool, but they didn’t seem much different from the normal ones, except for being a little less resistant to damage. From what I learned, they have 4% less health than the standard versions, which means they’re not so tough. I tamed one just because I think he is cool, maybe the standard one is stronger than him, but it doesn’t matter, I just love his appearance.
I spent a good chunk of time just exploring and taming, trying to get a feel for the place. I found this one spot, deep in a cave, where these giant, creepy-looking dinosaurs called “Megalosaurus” hang out. I had heard about those things! The big dogs of Aberration. They’re supposed to be super strong, even stronger than Rexes, in terms of damage. The only downside is they’re kind of small, so they get knocked around easily. I steered clear of them for now, not ready for that kind of challenge just yet. But I know I’ll be back to tame them one day, just you wait.
Speaking of strong, I saw a few “Rock Drakes” flying around, and I got to say, they are gorgeous creatures. I don’t have one of those yet, but they’re definitely on my list. Apparently, they’re some of the best tames you can get in Aberration, and I can see why. Those wings, the colors, the way they move… they’re just awesome.
But after playing it for a few days, I have to say, this map is wild. It’s challenging, it’s beautiful, it’s terrifying, all rolled into one. I’m still figuring things out, still getting my bearings, but I’m having a blast. And I got lucky! I found a “Spino” and tamed it, I think Spinos are the second strongest easy-to-find mounts in Aberration, right behind the Rock Drakes I saw.
I’ll keep you guys updated on my Aberration adventures. There’s still so much to explore, so many creatures to tame. It’s gonna be a wild ride.
