Cliffans Saddles [Custom Cosmetics]
If you have spent any time taming creatures in ARK: Survival Ascended, you know that the default saddle designs can start to feel a little plain after a hundred hours of gameplay. That is exactly where Cliffans Saddles [Custom Cosmetics] steps in. This add-on transforms the visual identity of your favorite mounts by introducing high-quality, custom-modeled saddles that slot perfectly into the game's new custom cosmetics system. Instead of just changing a color or adding a minor texture, this mod delivers entirely new geometry, giving your Mosa, Thyla, Argentavis, and Equus a fresh, premium look that stands out on any server.
What Makes This Add-On Unique
The core appeal of Cliffans Saddles [Custom Cosmetics] lies in its craftsmanship. Each saddle is not a simple re-skin but a fully custom model, complete with physics on certain pieces. That means when your Thyla pounces or your Argent flaps its wings, the saddle reacts naturally, adding a layer of immersion that vanilla assets simply cannot match. The mod currently covers four creatures: the Mosa, Thyla, Argent, and Equus, with each saddle designed to expand upon the vanilla aesthetic rather than replace it entirely. You get that "upgraded" feel without losing the game's visual language.
How the Cosmetic System Works
Applying these saddles is refreshingly straightforward. Once you have the mod loaded, you simply open the context menu on the saddle you want to customize and select the cosmetic skin. The game's custom cosmetics system handles the rest, overlaying the new model onto your existing saddle. This approach means you do not need to craft new items or manage extra inventory weight. It is a pure visual upgrade that respects your current progression. However, it is important to note that custom cosmetics need to be enabled on your server for the mod to function. If you are running a dedicated server, you will need to adjust your server settings to allow these cosmetic overlays, otherwise, the option will not appear in the context menu.
Compatibility and Versions
This mod is built specifically for ARK: Survival Ascended and is designed to work with the game's evolving patch cycle. The developer actively maintains the add-on to ensure it remains compatible with the latest client and server versions. As of the current update, the mod functions seamlessly on both single-player worlds and dedicated servers that have the custom cosmetics flag enabled. It is also worth checking your server's mod list to ensure there are no conflicts with other cosmetic mods, though the standalone nature of this add-on means it generally plays well alongside other QoL and building mods.
For players looking to streamline their setup, the foxygame.net launcher offers a one-click install for Cliffans Saddles [Custom Cosmetics], pulling the latest version directly from the mod database and handling any dependency checks automatically. This is especially useful if you are managing multiple mods for a private server, as the launcher also tracks version compatibility and can alert you when an update for this saddle pack is available, saving you from manual file checks.
Server Considerations and Official Approval
One of the standout features of this mod is that it has been approved for use on official servers. That is a significant stamp of approval in the ARK community. Still, the developer is clear that commission pieces are handled at the discretion of each server's admins. If you are playing on an unofficial server, the admin has the final say on whether these custom saddles are allowed. The mod page includes a link to the official patch notes explaining how to enable custom cosmetics, so be sure to share that with your server admin if they are unfamiliar with the process.
Installation Guide
If you are wondering how to install this add-on, the process is simple. Here is a quick step-by-step:
- Subscribe to the mod on the CurseForge or Steam Workshop page for ARK: Survival Ascended.
- Launch the game and navigate to the Mods menu to ensure the mod is downloaded and active.
- For dedicated servers, add the mod ID to your server's mod list and restart the server.
- Enable custom cosmetics in your server's game settings (refer to the official patch notes linked on the mod page).
- Join your world, open the context menu on a compatible saddle, and apply the cosmetic skin.
That is all there is to it. The mod does not require any additional plugins or frameworks, making it one of the more accessible cosmetic packs available for the game.
Why You Should Download It
When you download Cliffans Saddles [Custom Cosmetics], you are not just getting a texture swap. You are getting a set of high-fidelity models that respect the game's art direction while pushing it forward. The physics on the saddles are a particularly nice touch, adding a dynamic element that makes your creatures feel more alive. Whether you are a solo player who wants your Equus to look regal or a tribe leader who wants your Mosa to be the terror of the deep, this mod delivers.
For those managing a larger community, the foxygame.net launcher also features an add-on catalog where you can browse and install Cliffans Saddles [Custom Cosmetics] alongside other essential mods, with automatic updates ensuring your players always have the latest fixes and creature additions. It is a practical way to keep your server's mod list organized and up to date without constant manual intervention.
Final Thoughts
Cliffans Saddles [Custom Cosmetics] for ARK: Survival Ascended is a passion project that shows in every polygon. The developer has clearly invested time into making each saddle feel bespoke, and the support from the community through donations and commissions has allowed this project to grow. While the current roster is limited to four creatures, the quality is high enough that you will want to see more. It is a simple, effective way to personalize your gameplay experience without altering game balance. If you are tired of looking at the same old saddles, give this mod a try. Your Thyla will thank you.