Why Does ARK: Survival Evolved Keep Crashing on PS5? Troubleshooting Guide

ARK: Survival Evolved, while a captivating dinosaur-themed survival game, is notorious for its performance issues. PS5 players frequently encounter crashes, disrupting their gameplay experience. This guide explores the common causes of these crashes and provides troubleshooting steps to minimize their occurrence.

Common Causes of ARK Crashes on PS5

Several factors can contribute to ARK crashing on your PlayStation 5. Identifying the root cause is the first step towards resolving the issue.

  • Software Bugs: ARK is a complex game, and bugs are unfortunately common. These bugs can trigger crashes under specific circumstances.
  • Overheating: If your PS5 is overheating, it may cause games to crash as a safety measure.
  • Corrupted Game Files: Game files can become corrupted during installation or updates, leading to instability and crashes.
  • Insufficient Storage Space: Running out of storage space on your PS5 can cause performance issues, including crashes.
  • Outdated System Software: An outdated PS5 system software can sometimes cause compatibility issues with games.
  • Network Issues: Problems with your internet connection can lead to crashes, especially in multiplayer.
  • Mod Conflicts (If Applicable): While less common on consoles, corrupted saves or mod conflicts after a game update could lead to crashes.
  • Hardware Issues: In rare cases, the crashes may indicate a hardware problem with your PS5.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix ARK Crashes

Here are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix ARK crashing on your PS5:

1. Restart Your PS5

A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches that may be causing the crashes. Fully power down the console, wait a few moments, and then turn it back on.

2. Check for Game Updates

Ensure that you have the latest version of ARK installed. Game developers frequently release patches that fix bugs and improve performance. To check for updates:

  • Go to the PlayStation main menu.
  • Highlight ARK: Survival Evolved.
  • Press the Options button on your controller.
  • Select Check for Update.

3. Update Your PS5 System Software

Keep your PS5 system software up to date. New system software updates include performance upgrades and bug fixes that can resolve some game crash issues. To update the system software:

  • Go to Settings from the PS5 home screen.
  • Select System.
  • Select System Software.
  • Select System Software Update and Settings.
  • Select Update System Software.

4. Rebuild the Database

Rebuilding the PS5 database can fix corrupted data that may be causing crashes. It reorganizes the data on your storage drive, potentially improving performance.

  • Power off your PS5 completely.
  • Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps (approximately 7 seconds). This will boot the PS5 in Safe Mode.
  • Connect your DualSense controller with a USB cable.
  • Select Rebuild Database from the Safe Mode menu.

Note: This process may take some time depending on the amount of data on your storage drive.

5. Free Up Storage Space

Ensure you have sufficient free storage space on your PS5. A full storage drive can negatively impact performance. Delete unnecessary games, applications, or media files.

  • Go to Settings from the PS5 home screen.
  • Select Storage.
  • Check available storage and delete any unnecessary files.

6. Clear the Cache

Clearing the cache can help to resolve issues related to corrupted or outdated data.

  • Go to Settings from the PS5 home screen.
  • Select Storage.
  • Select Cached Data.
  • Select Clear.

7. Reinstall ARK: Survival Evolved

If the crashes persist, try reinstalling the game. This will ensure that you have a clean installation of the game files.

  • Go to the PlayStation main menu.
  • Highlight ARK: Survival Evolved.
  • Press the Options button on your controller.
  • Select Delete.
  • Re-download and install the game from the PlayStation Store.

8. Check Your Internet Connection

If you’re playing ARK online, ensure you have a stable internet connection. Connectivity issues can cause crashes. Try restarting your router or contacting your internet service provider.

9. Improve Ventilation

Make sure your PS5 has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Ensure the console is not obstructed and is placed in a well-ventilated area. Clean any dust buildup around the vents.

10. Reset PS5 to Factory Settings (Last Resort)

As a last resort, you can try resetting your PS5 to factory settings. Note: This will erase all data on your console, so back up any important data first.

  • Go to Settings from the PS5 home screen.
  • Select System.
  • Select System Software.
  • Select Reset Options.
  • Select Reset Your Console.

11. Contact PlayStation Support

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, there may be a hardware problem with your PS5. Contact PlayStation Support for assistance.

Conclusion

ARK: Survival Evolved crashes on PS5 can be frustrating, but by following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can often resolve the issue and get back to enjoying the game. Remember to keep your system and game updated, ensure adequate ventilation, and maintain sufficient storage space. Good luck, survivor!