Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED)
If you have been playing ARK: Survival Ascended for any length of time, you know that the Gene Trait system is one of the most exciting additions to the game. It allows you to customize your creatures in ways that were previously impossible, from boosting their damage to granting them vampiric abilities. However, for a long time, this system was locked behind the paid Bob's Tall Tales DLC. That is where Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED) comes in, offering you full access to this powerful mechanic without spending a dime on extra content.
This mod is not just a simple unlock. It is a comprehensive overhaul of the trait system, bringing you a custom Gene Scanner, a unique Gene Storage unit, and an Admin Trait Gun that puts the power of a god in your hands. Whether you are a solo player looking to create the ultimate tame or a server admin wanting to curate the perfect creature roster, this mod delivers on every front.
What Does Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED) Add?
At its core, this mod replicates the functionality of the official Gene Scanner and Gene Storage, but it removes the requirement for Bob's Tall Tales. Wildcard has officially granted permission for this mod to exist, so you can rest easy knowing you are using a community tool that respects the developers' wishes.
Custom Gene Scanner and Storage
The custom Gene Scanner works just like the official one. You can scan wild and tamed creatures to see what traits they possess. The Gene Storage is where things get interesting. It is not just a box for holding traits; it features a unique Trait Combination function. Place two duplicate traits of the same tier into the storage, use the radial wheel, and they will combine into a single trait of the next tier. For example, two Vampiric 1 traits combine into one Vampiric 2 trait. This allows for a deep progression system that rewards careful breeding and hunting.
The Admin Trait Gun
For those who want absolute control, the Admin Trait Gun is a game-changer. Aim at any dinosaur and left-click to open a menu where you can add or remove any trait from the game. This is perfect for testing builds, creating challenging boss fights, or just having fun with your tribemates. You can spawn the gun using the command cheat gfi dinomanagergun_bettertraits 1 0 0.
How to Install and Get Started
Getting started is simple. You can download Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED) from the popular mod repositories. The installation process is straightforward for anyone familiar with ARK mods. Just subscribe to the mod on the Steam Workshop or your platform's mod browser, and make sure it is enabled in your server's mod list. For single-player, simply activate it in the mod menu before loading your save.
If you are looking for a seamless experience, consider using the foxygame.net launcher. It provides a one-click install for Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED), ensuring that the mod is properly configured for the latest version of ARK: Survival Ascended without any manual file editing. This is a great way to avoid common installation pitfalls.
Accessing the UI
Once installed, accessing the mod's interface is easy. On PC, press the Home key on your keyboard. On PlayStation, use D-pad Right + X + O. On Xbox, press D-pad Right + A + B. This will open the main menu for the Gene Scanner and Storage, allowing you to manage your traits with ease.
INI Options and Customization
The mod comes with a set of INI options that give you granular control over how the trait system behaves. While these will eventually be integrated into a config UI, you can manually adjust them now for a tailored experience.
- AllowDetectingWildTraits (default true): Set to false to disable seeing traits on wild dinos with the Gene Scanner.
- TraitCombiningEnabled (default true): Set to false to turn off the ability to combine duplicate traits into higher tiers.
- GetModdedBuffClasses (default true): Set to false to prevent the Admin Gun from adding modded buffs to creatures.
These options allow you to balance the mod for your specific playstyle, whether you want a hardcore survival experience or a creative sandbox.
Compatibility and Future Plans
Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED) for ARK: Survival Ascended is designed to work with the current major releases of the game. The developer is actively maintaining the mod to ensure compatibility with new patches and content updates. It is also compatible with many other popular mods, though you should always check for conflicts if you run a heavily modded server.
The foxygame.net launcher keeps your mods up to date automatically. When a new version of Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED) is released, the launcher will handle the update for you, so you never have to worry about version mismatches breaking your server. This is especially useful for server owners who manage multiple mods.
The mod's creator has a roadmap of exciting features planned, including entirely new traits that are not found in the vanilla game. This means the mod will only get better over time, offering more depth and variety to your creature customization.
Why You Should Try It
If you have been frustrated by the paywall surrounding the trait system, this mod is the answer you have been looking for. It is feature-rich, officially sanctioned, and constantly evolving. The ability to combine traits adds a strategic layer to breeding that is both rewarding and fun. The Admin Trait Gun is a fantastic tool for server admins who want to create unique events or just help out a struggling player.
In conclusion, Better Traits (NO DLC REQUIRED) is an essential mod for any ARK: Survival Ascended player who wants to experience the full potential of the Gene Trait system. It removes barriers, adds new mechanics, and empowers you to create the ultimate creatures. Do not wait any longer—download it today and start building your perfect dino army.