DOberman Test Version
ARK: Survival Ascended has always been about taming, breeding, and surviving alongside prehistoric creatures. But what if you could add a modern-day best friend to your tribe? The DOberman Test Version is a fan-commissioned mod by SquishyTiger that introduces a fully modeled Doberman to the island. This is not a full release—it's a test build designed to let players experience the early implementation of this sleek, intelligent breed before the polished version drops.
Whether you are a dog lover or simply want a unique guard companion that doesn't eat raw meat by the stack, this mod offers a fresh gameplay dynamic. The Doberman spawns naturally in the Grasslands, making it relatively easy to locate early in your playthrough. This guide covers everything from installation to what you can expect from this experimental creature.
What Does the DOberman Test Version Add?
This test build is straightforward: it adds a single new creature—the Doberman—to the game's spawn tables. Unlike the aggressive predators you usually encounter, this canine is neutral until provoked, giving you a chance to approach and attempt taming. The model is detailed, with animations that reflect the breed's alert and athletic posture. As a test version, some features may be incomplete, but the core functionality is present: it spawns, it moves, and it can be interacted with.
Key Features in This Test Build
- Grassland Spawns: Look for the Doberman roaming the open plains, often in small packs.
- Passive Tame Potential: While not fully documented, the creature is designed to be tamed using standard ARK mechanics.
- Unique Visuals: The Doberman features a custom mesh and textures, distinct from any other creature in the game.
- Test Status: Expect occasional glitches or missing sounds, as this is an early iteration.
For those eager to try it, the process to download DOberman Test Version is simple, but you'll need to ensure your game client is up to date. The mod is built for the current generation of ARK: Survival Ascended, specifically supporting the latest Steam and Xbox Series X|S versions. Always check the mod's page for notes on which minor game version it was tested against, as major ARK updates can temporarily break mod compatibility.
How to Install the DOberman Test Version
Getting this mod into your game is a straightforward procedure, even for those new to modding. The most reliable method is to use the in-game mod browser, but you can also manually place the files if you prefer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install it correctly.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
- Update ARK: Ensure your ARK: Survival Ascended is patched to the latest version to avoid conflicts.
- Subscribe/Download: Navigate to the mod page for the DOberman Test Version and download the files.
- Install via Launcher: If you are using a third-party launcher, locate the mod folder and place the extracted files into the Mods directory of your ARK installation.
- Enable the Mod: Launch the game, go to the Mods menu, and activate the DOberman Test Version.
- Start a Session: Load a single-player world or a dedicated server with the mod enabled to see the Doberman in the Grasslands.
If you are using the foxygame.net launcher, the process is even smoother—it offers a one-click install for the DOberman Test Version, automatically handling version checks so you don't have to worry about mismatched files. This is particularly handy if you switch between different ARK builds, as the launcher ensures you are always using the correct mod variant for your game client.
Compatibility and Performance Notes
Because this is a test version, compatibility is your primary concern. The mod is not compatible with older versions of ARK: Survival Ascended that predate the release of the Unreal Engine 5.1 update. Furthermore, it may conflict with other mods that alter spawn containers or creature IDs. If you run a heavily modded server, test this mod in a separate profile first.
Known Limitations
- No Saddle Yet: This test build does not include a custom saddle or riding mechanic.
- Basic AI: The Doberman uses a placeholder AI from a similar-sized creature, so its behavior is not yet unique.
- Sound Files: Some audio cues are missing or use generic dog sounds from the game's assets.
Despite these limitations, the DOberman Test Version for ARK: Survival Ascended offers a fantastic preview of what's to come. It is an excellent way for modders to provide feedback on the model's proportions and animations before the final release. The creator has stated that the full version will include breeding, leveling stats specific to the breed, and a unique "guard mode" ability.
Final Thoughts on This Canine Mod
The DOberman Test Version is a promising addition for players who want a change of pace from dinosaurs. It brings a familiar, loyal companion to the harsh world of ARK, and its location in the Grasslands makes it accessible for new survivors. While it is not feature-complete, the foundation is solid, and the model quality is impressive for a test build. If you are curious about the future of creature mods in ARK: Survival Ascended, this is a must-try. Download it, find your Doberman, and see if this loyal breed has a place in your tribe. Just remember to keep an eye on it—test builds can be unpredictable, but that is part of the fun of being an early adopter. The mod is a clear labor of love, and it will be exciting to see how SquishyTiger polishes it into a full release.