ARK Ascended Mods: Load Order, Updates and Startup Conflicts

Build a reproducible inventory

For each mod, record name, CurseForge Project ID, version, supported platforms, position and dependencies. On a console community, keep only cross-platform releases. A PC-only list can block console players even when the server accepts crossplay.

Current ASA configuration supports:

-mods=ID_1,ID_2,ID_3

The wiki marks older approaches such as Steam Workshop and some ActiveMods uses as ASE-specific or obsolete for ASA. A provider manager may generate the argument; use one source of truth rather than two diverging lists.

Update without breaking the world

Isolate a mod that blocks startup

Start with the latest change and earliest useful log error, not the final cascade. Verify ID, completed download, platform and dependencies. If still unknown, clone the world and test half the list, then the other half; this batch search narrows the culprit quickly.

Never permanently remove a structure, map or creature mod from the production world just to test startup. The first save without it may make loss permanent. Use an isolated copy and restore before the next test.

Validate the fix

Confirm two starts, one connection from each supported platform, loading of modded areas and a save/restore. Document final list, order and versions. The ARK mod install guide covers initial setup; the cluster guide covers multiple maps.

Frequently asked questions