ARK: Survival Evolved is arguably the biggest game in Steam’s Early Access program. The game features a massive world where you can tame and ride dinosaurs. It’s been available in Early Access for a while now, but if you’ve been hesitant to pull the trigger on a purchase, you can play the game for free this weekend.

From now until Sunday, July 31, the game will be completely free for anyone to try. Then if you decide to lay down the cash, you can buy it for 50% off on Steam. That sale ends on August 3.

But the developers have some goodies for existing players as well. A free update expanding The Center map can now be downloaded. Besides the map expansion the update also includes new dinosaurs (of course) and an all new fishing mechanic. Beyond that other structures such as a spiral staircase and industrial grinder.

In addition to The Center update, you can also now download Primitive+, a fan-created mod that allows players to use only wood and stone to build structures and create weapons.


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Nicole has been playing games her entire life. Now that she's a mom, she's passionate about promoting games as a healthy pastime to other parents around the globe. She has been an editor at IGN, where she launched and hosted the Girlfight podcast. In her spare time (which is not very much, honestly) she enjoys gaming, reading, and writing fiction. Most of the time she’s a mom to a crazy, intelligent, and exhausting little girl.