ARK: Host Non-Dedicated Server PS4 – A Complete Guide for Dev

Welcome, Dev! If you’re looking for a way to play ARK: Survival Evolved with your friends on a non-dedicated server on PS4, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about hosting a non-dedicated server on PS4.

What is a non-dedicated server?

A non-dedicated server is a type of server where the host is also a player in the game. This means that the server is only available when the host is playing, and other players can only join the game when the host is online. Non-dedicated servers are great for playing with friends who want to explore the game together, but they are limited in terms of the number of players that can join and the size of the game world.

Advantages of a non-dedicated server

One of the advantages of a non-dedicated server is that it allows you to play the game with your friends in a more intimate and interactive way. You can explore the game world together, help each other out, and have a better overall experience than if you were playing on a public server with strangers. Non-dedicated servers are also a great way to learn the game and its mechanics.

Another advantage of a non-dedicated server is that it can be cost-effective. You don’t need to rent a dedicated server or pay for hosting, which can save you money in the long run.

Disadvantages of a non-dedicated server

One of the biggest disadvantages of a non-dedicated server is that it is limited in terms of the number of players that can join. Typically, non-dedicated servers can only support up to four players, which means that if you have a larger group of friends, you may need to look into other options.

Non-dedicated servers can also be prone to lag and other performance issues, especially if the host has a slow or unreliable internet connection. This can lead to a frustrating gaming experience for everyone involved.

Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server on PS4

Step 1: Start a Non-Dedicated Server

The first step in hosting a non-dedicated server on PS4 is to start the game and select the “Host/Local” option from the main menu. This will bring up a new menu where you can choose to start a new game or join an existing one.

Once you have selected “Start a new game,” you will be prompted to choose your settings. You can choose the map, game mode, difficulty level, and other options that will affect your gameplay experience. Once you have made your selections, click “Create Ark” to start the game.

Step 2: Invite Friends to Join

Once you have started the game, you can invite your friends to join by selecting the “Invite Friends” option from the pause menu. This will bring up a list of your PS4 friends who are currently online, and you can select the ones you want to invite to your game.

Your friends will receive an invite, and they can join your game by selecting the invitation from the PS4 notifications menu.

Step 3: Play the Game

Once your friends have joined your game, you are ready to start playing! Explore the game world, gather resources, and build your base together. Remember that as the host, you have control over the game settings and can change them at any time from the pause menu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I play on a non-dedicated server with more than four players?

A: No, non-dedicated servers are limited to four players. If you want to play with more than four players, you will need to look into other options, such as a dedicated server or a public server.

Q: Can I use mods on a non-dedicated server?

A: Yes, you can use mods on a non-dedicated server. However, keep in mind that all players must have the same mods installed in order to play together.

Q: Can I adjust the difficulty level on a non-dedicated server?

A: Yes, as the host, you have control over the game settings and can adjust the difficulty level at any time from the pause menu.

Q: Can I transfer my character to another server?

A: No, character transfers are not available on non-dedicated servers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hosting a non-dedicated server on PS4 is a great way to play ARK: Survival Evolved with your friends. While there are some limitations to non-dedicated servers, they can be cost-effective and provide a more intimate and interactive gaming experience. If you have any questions or need help getting started, feel free to refer to this guide or reach out to the ARK community for assistance.