ARK: Aquatica DLC Faces Backlash Over AI-Generated Trailer, But Underwater Adventure Awaits

Snail Games, the publisher behind *ARK: Survival Evolved*, has announced *ARK: Aquatica*, a new downloadable content (DLC) expansion set to launch in June 2025. This underwater-themed expansion promises a bold new chapter for the decade-old dinosaur survival game, featuring a crash-landed ARK deep in the Atlantic with over 17 new creatures and 60 new engrams. However, the reveal has been overshadowed by controversy, as fans slammed the initial trailer for its heavy use of AI-generated visuals and narration, raising concerns about the DLC’s quality and development. Despite the rocky start, *Aquatica* aims to celebrate *ARK*’s 10th anniversary with a unique aquatic adventure.

A New Underwater Frontier

*ARK: Aquatica* is described as a non-canonical side story for *ARK: Survival Evolved*, set in an ambitious underwater environment where 95% of gameplay takes place beneath the surface. Developed by Snail Games’ Colorado studio, the DLC introduces players to a submerged ARK in the Atlantic Ocean, complete with glowing coral reefs, giant subaquatic dinosaurs, and new challenges. The expansion features a new original theme by composer Gareth Coker and is positioned as a tribute to the *ARK* franchise’s 10-year anniversary, which Snail Games is celebrating with events like an interactive booth and developer panel at IGN Live from June 6-8, 2025.

Unlike other recent *ARK* projects, *Aquatica* is being developed for the original *ARK: Survival Evolved*, not the remastered *ARK: Survival Ascended*. This decision has puzzled fans, as *Survival Evolved*’s official servers were shut down in September 2023 to pave the way for *Ascended*. Snail Games has emphasized that *Aquatica* is a distinct project, separate from Studio Wildcard’s work on *Ascended* and the long-awaited *ARK 2*.

The AI Trailer Controversy

The announcement of *ARK: Aquatica* at GDC 2025 was marred by a poorly received trailer that fans quickly identified as AI-generated. The trailer, which featured unnatural visuals, mutating limbs, and a robotic voice-over, drew widespread criticism for its lack of polish and reliance on generative AI. Popular *ARK* YouTuber Syntac, with over 1.9 million subscribers, commented, “This is disgusting and you should be ashamed of yourselves,” a sentiment echoed by many in the community. The trailer was delisted from YouTube after receiving nearly 500,000 views but only 1,600 upvotes, with its top comment garnering 21,000 upvotes for calling it out.

Snail Games’ lead designer, Matt Kohl, responded to the backlash, stating that the development team was unaware of the marketing team’s decision to use AI for the trailer. Kohl emphasized that no AI tools were used in *Aquatica*’s actual development, reassuring fans that the game itself would not rely on AI-generated content. A second, in-engine gameplay trailer was released to showcase actual footage, though it was criticized for being light on details and failing to clarify the DLC’s scope. The controversy has raised concerns about *Aquatica*’s readiness, with some fans questioning whether the June 2025 release date is realistic given the limited information provided.

Why the Backlash Matters

The negative reaction to the *Aquatica* trailer reflects broader concerns about AI in gaming. Fans and critics argue that AI-generated content often lacks the care and craft of human-made art, giving the impression that *Aquatica* is a low-effort project. This is particularly damaging for *ARK*, a franchise known for its stunning art direction and memorable trailers. Posts on X and comments across gaming sites have expressed dismay, with some calling the trailer “pathetic” and “embarrassing.” The backlash also highlights growing tensions around AI’s impact on creative industries, with fans citing concerns about job displacement for artists and developers.

Studio Wildcard, the original developer of *ARK: Survival Evolved*, quickly distanced itself from *Aquatica*, stating that it is “entirely dedicated” to *ARK: Survival Ascended* and *ARK 2*. The studio confirmed that Snail Games’ Colorado team is solely responsible for *Aquatica*, a move that has confused fans given Wildcard’s central role in the franchise. This separation has fueled speculation that *Aquatica* may be a rushed or secondary project, especially as Wildcard focuses on *ARK: Lost Colony*, another expansion set for November 2025, and *ARK 2*, which may not launch until late 2026 or 2027.

What to Expect from Aquatica

Despite the controversy, *Aquatica* has potential to offer a fresh experience for *ARK* fans. The DLC’s underwater setting, featuring 17 new creatures and 60 new engrams, could introduce unique survival mechanics, such as managing oxygen levels or taming massive marine dinosaurs. The promise of a new soundtrack by Gareth Coker, known for his work on *Ori and the Blind Forest*, adds to the anticipation. Recent posts on X revealed new key art and gameplay snippets at IGN Live, suggesting Snail Games is working to rebuild trust with fans.

However, the lack of detailed gameplay footage and the choice to develop for *Survival Evolved* rather than *Ascended* raise questions. With only three months until the planned June 2025 release, fans remain skeptical about whether Snail Games can deliver a polished expansion. The *ARK* community is passionate but wary, especially after delays with *ARK 2* and mixed reception to *Survival Ascended*. Snail Games will need to provide substantial updates to restore confidence.

Looking Ahead

*ARK: Aquatica* represents both an opportunity and a challenge for Snail Games. The underwater theme and new content could reinvigorate *ARK: Survival Evolved*, appealing to players eager for fresh adventures. However, the AI trailer misstep has damaged the expansion’s reputation, and Snail Games must work to prove that *Aquatica* is a meaningful addition to the franchise. With *ARK*’s 10th anniversary celebrations in full swing, including events at IGN Live and a growing mobile audience for *ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition*, the franchise remains a powerhouse in the survival genre.

For fans, the key will be transparency and quality. If Snail Games can deliver a robust underwater experience with the depth and polish *ARK* players expect, *Aquatica* could overcome its rocky reveal. Until then, the community will be watching closely, hoping for a DLC that honors the legacy of *ARK* rather than relying on shortcuts. With a release slated for June 2025, the next few months will be critical for Snail Games to turn the tide.