BigAL's: WAK Spino (Small Version)
The rivers of the Ark have long been dominated by standard spinosauruses, but a new apex predator has emerged to challenge the status quo. BigAL's: WAK Spino (Small Version) is not just a cosmetic tweak; it is a fully realized "rex-tier" creature designed to redefine aquatic and semi-aquatic combat. Commissioned by the renowned content creator Xako, this mod adds a creature that balances immense power with unique mechanical depth, making it a must-have addition for any survivor looking to control the waterways.
Why Choose the WAK Spino?
Unlike its vanilla counterpart, this small version packs a punch that rivals the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex while retaining the agility of a spino. It features a specialized damage scaling mechanic where it deals progressively more damage—up to 50% extra—against targets with health pools between 30,000 and 100,000 HP. This makes it an exceptional hunter for large threats without being overly oppressive against smaller fauna. Furthermore, it retains the classic water buff when submerged, ensuring it remains faster and stronger in its natural habitat compared to land-based rivals.
The creature is also incredibly versatile regarding map compatibility. It can spawn in inland waters across The Island, Center, Valguero, and Ragnarok, as well as specific zones in Scorched Earth, Aberration, Extinction, and Lost Island. Perhaps most importantly for late-game explorers, this spino can enter boss arenas, allowing you to bring your favorite aquatic mount into fights where it was previously banned.
Devastating Combat Mechanics
The attack suite of the WAK Spino is where it truly shines. The primary left-click bite includes four distinct animations, keeping combat visually engaging. However, the right-click directional heavy attacks offer deep tactical options:
- Front View: A two-hit claw swipe that penetrates armor and applies the "Open Wounds" debuff. This stackable effect increases damage taken by the target by 2.5% per stack, up to a massive 50% increase.
- Side Views: A crushing stomp that applies the Trike slow debuff, hindering enemy movement significantly.
- Rear View: A powerful tail wag that also inflicts the Trike slow, protecting the rider from flankers.
For those seeking maximum destruction, the spacebar triggers a heavy charge-up attack. When held sufficiently, the spino unleashes a two-hit bite that inflicts "Deep Wounds." Similar to the Deinosuchus but more balanced, this debuff deals up to 2,000 damage per tick over 10 seconds, capping at 20,000 total damage. Remarkably, this attack functions underwater by holding the secondary fire button until the icon turns blue, then pressing the jump key. Even wild, unriden specimens utilize this terrifying move.
Taming and Progression
Taming this beast requires a shift from traditional methods. You do not need passive feeding of kibble or healing with vegetable cakes. Instead, survivors must craft and consume a new item called "Fish Soup." This concoction provides stamina recovery, reduced oxygen consumption, and health regeneration. Once consumed, the spino will not attack you unless you get too close. To complete the tame, you must kill carnivores on foot near the creature; better weapons result in a faster taming process. Note that killing herbivores does not contribute to the taming bar.
The saddle, saddle attachments, and exclusive Chibi pets unlock at level 74. For those who prefer looting over crafting, the saddle can be found in various high-tier loot crates across all maps, including Red Obelisks, Cave drops, and Dungeon rewards. The creature is also immune to radiation, making it a perfect companion for traversing the hazardous zones of Aberration, and it supports crossbreeding with variants, resulting in offspring that inherit traits from both parents based on a 50-50 split.
Installation and Compatibility
Getting this powerhouse into your game is straightforward. When you download BigAL's: WAK Spino (Small Version), you ensure compatibility with the latest updates for ARK: Survival Ascended. The mod is designed to work seamlessly with current server versions, though always check the workshop page for specific patch notes after major game updates. If you are using a launcher like foxygame.net, managing this add-on becomes even simpler; the platform's integrated catalog allows for one-click installation of BigAL's: WAK Spino (Small Version), automatically handling version compatibility checks so you can dive straight into taming without manual file configuration headaches.
For players who prefer console commands, several spawn codes are available to summon the creature or its items instantly. You can spawn the normal variant, the Scorched Earth variant, or the Aberrant variant using specific blueprint paths. Additionally, commands exist to grant the saddle, the WAK attachment, and the essential Fish Soup directly to your inventory.
Conclusion
BigAL's: WAK Spino (Small Version) for ARK: Survival Ascended offers a fresh take on a classic dinosaur, blending high-damage output with unique utility mechanics. Whether you are hunting down massive bosses, exploring radioactive caves, or simply dominating the rivers, this creature provides a rewarding experience for tamers willing to learn its specific requirements. With its robust attack patterns, specialized taming method, and broad map support, the WAK Spino stands ready to become the new emperor of your ark's waterways.