HermidRagTest
If you have spent countless hours exploring the vast deserts and highlands of Ragnarok in ARK: Survival Ascended, you know that the map feels alive. But what if you could inject a fresh dose of prehistoric chaos into those familiar biomes? That is exactly what the HermidRagTest add-on aims to do, even if it is still in its earliest experimental phase. This is a mod built for players who love tinkering with spawn tables and want to see creatures from other DLCs roaming the classic Ragnarok landscape.
What Does HermidRagTest Actually Do?
At its core, this is a test modification. The developer has been clear about its purpose: it is a work-in-progress that currently adds a selection of DLC creatures to the Ragnarok spawn tables. Right now, the only creature you will encounter is the massive Oasisaur. This gentle giant, normally found in more recent maps, now has a chance to spawn in the arid zones of Ragnarok. For those unfamiliar, the Oasisaur is a walking greenhouse, providing mobile water and crop plots for survivors on the go.
Because this is a test, the mod is not compatible with other maps. It is strictly designed for Ragnarok. If you try to use it on The Island or Scorched Earth, you will likely run into issues. Furthermore, the developer warns that you may lose data on download. This means your save file could be affected if you install or remove the mod mid-playthrough. Treat this as a sandbox experiment rather than a stable addition to your main server.
Current Features and Limitations
Let us break down what you can expect when you decide to try this out. The feature list is intentionally short, reflecting its "test" status.
- Oasisaur Spawns: The primary feature is adding Oasisaur to Ragnarok's spawn tables. You will find them in the desert and savanna regions.
- Lightweight Code: Since it only modifies spawn containers, the mod is small and does not impact performance significantly.
- No Custom Assets: The mod uses existing creature assets, so there are no new models or animations to download.
- Single Map Support: As mentioned, it only works on Ragnarok. Do not expect cross-map functionality.
While the scope is minimal, it offers a glimpse into how modders are tweaking the backend of ARK: Survival Ascended to create unique experiences. For players who have grown tired of seeing the same creatures in the same spots, this is a refreshing change of pace, even if it is temporary.
How to Install HermidRagTest for ARK: Survival Ascended
Getting this mod running is straightforward, but you need to pay attention to the warnings. The process is similar to other mods, but the risk of data loss means you should back up your single-player save or ensure your server has proper backups. If you are using the foxygame.net launcher, you can find the add-on catalog directly in the launcher interface, which simplifies the process of getting HermidRagTest for ARK: Survival Ascended onto your client without navigating the Steam Workshop manually.
For those doing it manually, here is a step-by-step guide on how to install:
- Navigate to the Steam Workshop for ARK: Survival Ascended.
- Search for "HermidRagTest" and subscribe to the mod.
- Wait for the download to complete. Ensure you have stable internet to avoid corruption.
- Launch the game and go to the Mods menu.
- Enable HermidRagTest and start a single-player session on Ragnarok.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more automated approach, the foxygame.net launcher offers one-click installation for mods like this. It handles version compatibility checks automatically, ensuring that the mod version you are running matches your current game build. This is particularly useful for a test mod that might update frequently as the developer iterates on the spawn rates and creature lists.
Mod Compatibility and Game Versions
As of now, HermidRagTest is designed for the current stable build of ARK: Survival Ascended. Because it is a test, it is not recommended for dedicated servers with a large player base. The mod's code interacts directly with spawn containers, which can conflict with other mods that alter the same files. If you run a mod stack, test this one in isolation first. The developer has not indicated support for crossplay or specific console versions, so PC players are the primary audience for this experiment.
Future Potential
While the current version only includes the Oasisaur, the title suggests more DLC creatures are planned. The modding community is watching this project closely. If the developer expands the spawn tables to include creatures like the Ferox or the Managarmr, Ragnarok could become a chaotic melting pot of species. For now, you are limited to the Oasisaur, but that is enough to test the waters. The mod is a clear signal that the modding tools for ASA are becoming robust enough to handle complex spawn manipulation.
Final Verdict
Should you download HermidRagTest? If you are a solo player looking for a novelty or a server admin wanting to test spawn mechanics, yes. It is a fun, low-stakes addition that breaks the monotony of Ragnarok. However, do not use it on a primary save file. The risk of data loss is real, and the mod's limited scope means it is more of a proof-of-concept than a full-fledged content pack. Keep an eye on this one; it could evolve into something substantial. Until then, enjoy the sight of an Oasisaur wandering the Ragnarok desert, and remember to back up your saves.