CliffPlatforms (old)
If you have ever stared at a towering ARK cliff face and wished you could build a hidden base right there, the CliffPlatforms (old) add-on is exactly what you need. This mod, commissioned by Siltion, brings back the classic cliff platform mechanics that veteran survivors remember from the original game. Instead of being limited to flat ground or awkward foundations, you can now snap stone and metal platforms directly onto sheer rock walls, opening up a whole new world of strategic building possibilities.
This is not a remaster or a rework. It is the original, community-loved version that many players still prefer for its straightforward behavior and reliable performance. The mod adds two distinct platform types: a stone cliff platform and a metal cliff platform. Each one is designed to attach cleanly to cliff surfaces, giving you a stable base for foundations, walls, and everything else you need to create a fortress that is nearly impossible to raid.
Why Choose CliffPlatforms (old) for ARK: Survival Ascended?
The biggest advantage of using CliffPlatforms (old) for ARK: Survival Ascended is the sheer tactical flexibility it provides. Building on cliffs means your base is naturally protected on at least one side. You can create elevated sniper nests, hidden storage caches, or even a full living complex that overlooks your entire territory. Because the platforms are made of stone and metal, they offer solid durability against most threats, including wild dinos and enemy players.
Another key benefit is the reduced footprint. Unlike sprawling ground bases that take up valuable resource-rich land, cliff platforms let you build vertically. This frees up flat areas for farming, taming pens, or simply keeping a clean and organized base layout. The mod is especially popular on PvP servers where a well-placed cliff base can be the difference between surviving a raid and losing everything.
Stone vs. Metal Platforms
The mod gives you a clear choice between two materials, each with its own strengths:
- Stone Cliff Platform: A great early-to-mid game option. It requires fewer rare resources to craft and provides solid protection against basic attacks and wild dinos.
- Metal Cliff Platform: The end-game choice. It offers significantly higher hit points and resistance to explosives, making it ideal for high-security bases.
You can mix and match both types on the same cliff, using stone for outer defenses and metal for your main structure. This flexibility allows you to manage your resource economy while still building an imposing fortress.
How to Install and Get Started
Getting the mod running is simple. First, you need to know how to install it correctly. The process is the same as with most ARK add-ons. You can download the mod from the Steam Workshop or a trusted mod repository. Once downloaded, you activate it in the mod manager for your single-player world or your dedicated server. After that, simply launch the game and the engrams for the platforms will appear in your crafting menu.
If you are looking to streamline the process, the foxygame.net launcher offers a one-click install for CliffPlatforms (old), which automatically handles version compatibility and places the mod in the correct folder. This is particularly handy if you manage multiple mods or run a dedicated server and want to avoid manual file placement errors. The launcher also keeps the mod updated, so you never have to worry about a broken build after a game patch.
Supported Versions and Mod Compatibility
This version of the mod is designed for the current release of ARK: Survival Ascended. It works well with most popular building mods, including those that add new structure pieces or expanded building mechanics. However, it is always a good idea to check the mod's load order if you are using several large overhauls. The platforms themselves are built on the vanilla structure system, so they interact predictably with other add-ons. If you encounter any issues, the mod author has a dedicated Discord server for bug reports, which is linked in the original mod description.
For players who are new to modding, the foxygame.net launcher is a fantastic resource. Beyond the one-click install, its add-on catalog lets you browse and search for CliffPlatforms (old) and other essential mods, all while ensuring you are downloading a compatible version for your game build. This removes the guesswork and lets you spend more time building and less time troubleshooting.
Practical Building Tips
Once you have the platforms unlocked, the building process is intuitive. Simply aim at a cliff surface and place the platform like you would a foundation. The mod will automatically align it to the rock face. You can then snap normal foundations, walls, and ceilings onto the platform's surface. One useful trick is to build a small "staircase" of platforms down the cliff to create a secure access path that can be easily defended or destroyed in an emergency.
Another tip is to use the metal platforms for your main living quarters and the stone ones for outer balconies or watchtowers. This gives you a strong core without wasting expensive metal on decorative elements. Also, remember that you can place these platforms underwater on certain rock formations, which opens up even more hidden base locations.
In conclusion, CliffPlatforms (old) is an essential mod for any survivor who wants to break free from the limitations of flat-ground building. It is simple, effective, and adds a layer of strategic depth that the vanilla game sorely lacks. Whether you are a solo player looking for a scenic retreat or a tribe leader planning an unbreakable fortress, this mod delivers exactly what you need. Download it today and start building your cliffside empire.