How to Run Custom Maps on an Ark Survival Ascended Server

Updated 4 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide walks you through adding custom maps to your Ark: Survival Ascended dedicated server, so you and your friends can explore new environments beyond The Island. You’ll learn how to prepare your server, install the map files, configure the launch parameters, and troubleshoot common issues. Before starting, you’ll need access to your server’s file system (via FTP or a hosting control panel) and basic familiarity with editing configuration files.

What You’ll Need

Access to your server’s file system (FTP credentials or hosting control panel).
SteamCMD or a hosting provider that supports custom map installation.
Enough disk space for the map files (typically 10-50 GB per map).
An understanding of your server’s startup parameters (usually found in a .bat file or control panel).

Step-by-Step

Back up your current server configuration. Before making any changes, copy your existing GameUserSettings.ini, Game.ini, and any startup scripts to a safe location. This ensures you can revert if something goes wrong.
Install the custom map via SteamCMD. Open SteamCMD and log in anonymously. Use the command app_update 2430930 validate to update the base game, then add the map’s App ID. For example, for Svartalfheim, use app_update 2430931. Replace the App ID with the one for your chosen map (check the mod page or wiki). Wait for the download to complete.
Verify the map files are present. Navigate to your server’s ShooterGame/Content/Maps folder. You should see a subfolder with the map’s name (e.g., Svartalfheim). If not, the installation may have failed â€“ re-run the SteamCMD command.
Update your startup parameters. Locate your server’s startup script (often start_server.bat or a command line in your hosting panel). Change the map parameter to the exact map name. For example, replace ?AltSaveDirectoryName=TheIsland with ?AltSaveDirectoryName=Svartalfheim and set the map to ?listen?SessionName=MyServer?ServerPassword= â€“ but critically, add ?Map=Svartalfheim or use the full path like ?Map=/Game/Maps/Svartalfheim/Svartalfheim. The exact syntax varies by map; check the map’s documentation.
Configure the map’s INI files. Some maps require specific settings in GameUserSettings.ini. For example, certain maps need [/Script/ShooterGame.ShooterGameUserSettings] entries like MapName= or LevelName=. Consult the map’s installation guide for any required lines.
Restart the server. Launch the server with the updated parameters. Watch the console output for errors. If the server fails to start, check the log files in ShooterGame/Saved/Logs for clues.
Test the connection. Once the server is running, join from the game client by adding the server to your favorites or using the direct IP. If you see the custom map’s loading screen, you’re good to go.

Common Mistakes

Using the wrong App ID. Each map has a unique Steam App ID. Using the base game’s ID (2430930) will not install the map.
Incorrect map name in startup parameters. The map name must match the folder name exactly, including capitalization. A mismatch will cause the server to crash or load the default map.
Forgetting to update the save directory. If you don’t change AltSaveDirectoryName, your server will use the same save files as The Island, causing conflicts.
Not clearing the old save data. If you previously ran a different map, delete the old save files from ShooterGame/Saved/SavedArks to avoid corruption.
Ignoring mod dependencies. Some custom maps require specific mods (e.g., a resource mod). Install those mods on the server and client, or the map may not work.

Tips

Check the map’s official documentation. Each map has its own quirks. The mod page or wiki will have specific installation instructions.
Use a test server first. If you’re unsure, run the map on a separate test server to avoid disrupting your main gameplay.
Keep your server updated. After a game update, re-run SteamCMD to ensure the map files are compatible.
Monitor memory usage. Custom maps can be more demanding than The Island. Increase your server’s RAM if you experience crashes.
Set a custom map name. Use ?SessionName=MyCustomMapServer to make it easier for players to find your server.

Troubleshooting

Server won’t start. Check the log file for errors. Common causes: incorrect map path, missing files, or incompatible mods. Re-verify the installation via SteamCMD.
Server starts but loads The Island. This means the startup parameter didn’t take effect. Ensure you’re editing the correct startup script and that the map parameter is spelled correctly.
Players get kicked on join. This often happens when the client doesn’t have the same mods as the server. Install all required mods on the client.
Map appears but textures are missing. Verify the map files are fully downloaded. Sometimes SteamCMD stops early; re-run the update command.
Save data is corrupted. If you switched maps without changing the save directory, the old save files may be incompatible. Delete the SavedArks folder and start fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run multiple custom maps on one server?

Yes, but you need to configure separate startup parameters and save directories for each map. You can switch between them by restarting the server with different parameters.

Do I need to install the map on the client as well?

No, the client automatically downloads the map when joining the server, but it’s faster if you subscribe to the map on Steam Workshop beforehand.

Will my character and items transfer to a custom map?

Only if you enable cross-ARK transfers in the server settings. By default, each map has its own character data.

How do I find the App ID for a specific map?

Check the map’s Steam Workshop page or the official wiki. The App ID is usually listed in the description or in the installation instructions.

Can I use custom maps on a non-dedicated server?

Yes, but the process is simpler â€“ you just select the map in the game’s hosting options. However, the server will only be available when you’re online.

What if the map is not listed in the game’s map selection?

That’s normal â€“ custom maps are not listed. You must use the server’s startup parameters to force the map. The game client will still connect.

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