Can You Get Rid Of The Host Barrier In Ark

Okay, fellow survivors, let's talk about that pesky host barrier in Ark: Survival Evolved. You know, that invisible wall that keeps your friends from venturing too far when you're playing a non-dedicated session?

It's like having a super clingy best friend, always needing you nearby. Annoying, right? But fear not, hope isn't lost!

So, Can You Actually Ditch the Barrier?

The short answer is... kinda. It's not like *poof* you make it disappear with a magic wand. But, there are definitely ways to loosen its grip, or at least make it feel less like a leash.

Option 1: Tweak Those Settings Like a Pro

This is where you get to feel like a mad scientist. Dive into your server settings! There's a setting called "Non-Dedicated Host Distance Limit". Think of it as the length of the leash.

Crank that bad boy up! Be warned, though, going too crazy high can cause performance issues. Imagine trying to run a marathon with your friend clinging to your backpack – your computer will be gasping for air.

A good starting point is to double or triple the default value and see how it goes. Experiment and find what works best for your setup!

Option 2: Embrace the Power of Dedicated Servers

Alright, this is the big leagues. Think of it as upgrading from a tricycle to a Ferrari. A dedicated server is a separate computer (or server hosting service) that runs the game world independently.

With a dedicated server, the host barrier is GONE! Your friends can roam free, build empires on opposite sides of the island, and generally cause chaos without being tethered to your presence.

It's like releasing a pack of velociraptors into the wild – exciting and potentially destructive (in a good way, of course).

Option 3: Mods! The Savior of Gamers Everywhere

Ah, mods. The spice of life. The duct tape of gaming. There are mods out there that can remove or significantly alter the host barrier. Do your research!

Browse the Steam Workshop. You might find exactly what you're looking for. But remember, mods can sometimes break things. So proceed with caution!

It's like adding a jetpack to your car. Cool, but might void the warranty.

A Word of Caution

Increasing the distance limit or switching to a dedicated server can put a strain on your computer. Especially if you're running Ark on a potato.

Before you go wild, make sure your rig can handle it. No one wants a slideshow survival experience.

Test your changes in a controlled environment. Spawn in a bunch of Dodos. If they're still moving smoothly, you're probably good to go. If they're teleporting and glitching, dial it back.

In Conclusion

The host barrier can be a real buzzkill, but it's not insurmountable. With a little tweaking and a dash of adventurous spirit, you can give your friends the freedom they deserve.

Whether you choose to fiddle with settings, embrace dedicated servers, or dive into the world of mods, there's a solution out there for you.

So go forth, survivors, and conquer the Ark! Just, you know, maybe don't get *too* far away from each other.