[Top 25] ARK: Survival Evolved Best Graphics Settings

25. Light Bloom 

The problem: the game is lagging, the light is blinding 

How Light Bloom fixes the problem: It’s true that in reality looking directly at the sun creates a blinding feeling. Well…Ark took everything to the next level and added this to the game. The lights are often way too bright and cause the game to generally function slower. Simply turn on the “Light Bloom” and notice how all your problems are solved. 

How will Light Bloom give you an advantage: 

• The game works smoother 
• Lightning is considerably improved 
• You can fly without the sun blinding you 

How to apply Light Bloom:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Color Grading
• Untick the box to turn it off

24. High-Quality Materials

The problem: your VRAM doesn’t sustain quality graphics and it’s an obstacle in your gameplay

How High-Quality Materials fixes the problem: The setting doesn’t affect graphics that much. It simply improves the texture of materials in your game, so objects look more realistic and aesthetically pleasing. Moreover, it doesn’t affect FPS too much. So, if your system allows it, keeping it on is alright. However, if you don’t have that luxury, turn this setting off and save important VRAM. You won’t feel the change in your graphic, but the game will be overall improved. 

How will High-Quality Materials give you an advantage: 

• Enable it to create texture details on game objects 
• Save significant VRAM by disabling it
• You can choose to keep it on/off depending on your preferences
• It gives you different advantages either way 

How to apply High-Quality Materials:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for High-Quality Materials
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

23. Sub Surface Scattering

The problem: Basic graphics, the game needs to be more realistic

How Sub Surface Scattering fixes the problem: This setting will meet your expectations if you love realistic objects and graphics. It plays with light reflection, managing its behavior so it hits structures at the right angles, imitating reality, while the game still loads at the right speed. 

How will Sub Surface Scattering give you an advantage: 

• All your favorite views will become better, you’ll feel teleported into reality
• The game gets a complex appearance, enhancing its features
• Anyone can enjoy it, as it doesn’t have an important effect on FPS 
• If loading problems or lags appear, disabling this setting might help 

How to apply Sub Surface Scattering:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Sub Surface Scattering 
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

22. Distance Field Shadowing 

The problem: You want faster loading and less graphic details that slow down your system

How  Distance Field Shadowing fixes the problem: This setting does exactly what its name suggests. It enables shadowing for far structures and offers the game a more realistic and engaging perspective. However, it does not serve any important purpose, and turning it down can actually improve overall performance. 

How will Distance Field Shadowing give you an advantage: 

• It gives the game a more realistic approach 
• Enhances its graphics for distant structures
• When disabled, it can help the system run the game faster and better 

How to apply Distance Field Shadowing :

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Distance Field Shadowing 
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

21. High-Quality VFX 

The problem: the game requires more FPS 

How High-Quality VFX fixes the problem: This setting solves an important problem by its absence. High-Quality VFX enables and improves water effects. Unless you have a unique passion or need for such details, the best thing to do is turn it off when you modify the game’s graphics. It will lead to more FPS and make your life easier.

How will High-Quality VFX give you an advantage: 

• It can improve your system’s performance by turning it off
• Creates a better game while being both set on/off
• You can play with water quality if your system allows it 

How to apply High-Quality VFX:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for High-Quality VFX 
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

20. Dynamic Tessellation 

The problem: you want to enhance the graphics of the game without losing too much VRAM 

How  Distance Dynamic Tessellation fixes the problem: Dynamic Tessellation is often disabled by the game’s preset values. If enabled, it gives you control over visual aspects of the meshes of a scene. It is some form of activating dynamic details. Keep in mind that it is a useful addition to the game, but it consumes considerable GPU resources and needs more than 4 GB VRAM to properly function. 

How will Dynamic Tessellation give you an advantage: 

• Improves the overall quality of structures 
• Textures will get a dynamic effect
• Graphics will finally be satisfying

How to apply Dynamic Tessellation:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Dynamic Tessellation 
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

19. Extra Level Streaming Distance

The problem: You need a faster loading speed on your map/ the map lags when you start running

How Extra Level streaming Distance fixes the problem: It can be annoying to have your stamina on point and run impressively long distances, but have the game against you. If your map doesn’t load as fast as you need it, use this trick. It will increase the number of objects loaded into memory, resulting in a faster loading time. 

How will Extra Level Streaming Distance give you an advantage: 

• For systems that have high VRAM and RAM, this setting will make loading a flawless action 
• For low RAM, turn the setting off to make the system run smoother 
• See the map as you run, without any lag 

How to apply  Extra Level Streaming Distance:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Extra Level Streaming Distance
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

18. High-Quality LODs 

The problem: Poor quality graphics, without details or textures on objects

How High-Quality LODs fix the problem: Some people have an eye for details, others prefer a simple, efficient game. If you pay attention to every aspect and you are looking to improve the game’s graphics, this setting will solve the issue instantly.

How will High-Quality LODs give you an advantage: 

• Tick the box if you have high RAM and enjoy the game at its best quality 
• If the system has low RAM, it can be turned off without affecting the gameplay 
• Enhances structures’ details, especially dinosaurs’

 How to apply High-Quality LODs :

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for High-Quality LODs 
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

17. Film Grain

The problem: the game frequently stops/lags

How Film Grain fixes the problem: If the game is lagging, the first setting to disable regarding graphics is the film grain. Although Ark passionates and graphic experts might see the difference, the vast majority of players that tested this setting consider that it adds no important benefit to the game. That being said, simply unticking it should help with smoother gameplay. 

How will Film Grain give you an advantage: 

• If enabled, it adds grain filters to visuals, but no noticeable change is present
• It is extremely helpful to disable it for better system performance 
• It adds considerable FPS if disabled 

How to apply Film Grain:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Film Grain
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

16. Ground Clutter Density

The problem: the map looks empty, the visual decor is not satisfying, poor terrain graphics

How Ground Clutter Density fixes the problem: Ground Clutter Density simply adds a higher density of non-interactable decorations on the ground, like certain stones and flowers. The setting truly adds a sense of beauty to any map, in exchange for FPS. Some users prefer to sacrifice decorations over efficiency and performance, some put greater value on aesthetics. In the end, it’s all your choice, but keep in mind to consider your system’s specifications.  

How will Ground Clutter Density give you an advantage: 

• You can enjoy impressive landscapes in all their beauty
• By disabling it, you gain important FPS
• You’ll find yourself in a calmer, prettier version of Ark, all by simply adding some terrain details 

How to apply Ground Clutter Density:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Ground Clutter Density
• Set it on medium using the slider

15. Motion Blur

The problem: the graphics of moving objects are visually annoying 

How Motion Blur fixes the problem: It really nice when a setting can help both activated and disabled. When on, it blurs moving objects instantly, adjusting them for the comfort of your eyes. On the other hand, it takes up FPS, so most players choose to avoid it and gather some FPS in return and that’s quite convenient too. It’s all your choice!

How will Motion Blur give you an advantage: 

• The graphics of moving objects won’t be a visual discomfort anymore
• When set on OFF, it saves important FPS, contributing to game performance
• Adds a blurring effect when objects are not stable 

How to apply Motion Blur:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Motion Blur
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

14. Sky Quality 

The problem: monotonous sky, unclear images

How Sky Quality fixes the problem: The name is suggestive for this one. When turned on, it creates sky graphics that can be impressive, especially on maps that include the aurora borealis, falling star rains, or intergalactic space travels. However, it can eat FPS, so it’s quite efficient to keep it low if the system is not advanced enough to sustain it. 

How will Sky Quality  give you an advantage: 

• You can enjoy incredible skies with detailed, realistic structures 
• Get an amazing FPS boost by setting it on low 
• Enjoy the beauty of the world above you

How to apply Sky Quality :

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Sky Quality 
• Set it on medium using the slider

13. High-Quality Anisotropic Filtering

The problem: sharp, large objects with low-quality texture

How High-Quality Anisotropic Filtering fixes the problem: This setting smoothens the appearance of edges and structures, creating a more realistic image of the game. The setting uses a filtering effect that consumes considerable GPU. If the system allows it, it’s a useful advantage from a graphical point of view. For example, your sword will finally look like a real weapon, not a weirdly-shaped stick. 

How will  High-Quality Anisotropic Filtering give you an advantage: 

• It allows for better views and more realistic landscapes 
• Craft items that have a satisfying aesthetic 
• Enjoy a higher graphic quality 

How to apply  High-Quality Anisotropic Filtering:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for High-Quality Anisotropic Filtering
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

12. Textures 

The problem: blurred images that lack details and effects 

How Textures fixes the problem: Enough with irrelevant settings that add minor improvements to the game. Now that we reached the top, Textures is the reason why you want to save VRAM by turning off other settings. When set on high/epic, this feature will transform the game’s aesthetics entirely. 

How will Textures give you an advantage: 

• It will improve every visual aspect of the game 
• You can enjoy Ark at its best quality and be impressed by all the gorgeous creatures and landscapes 
• If set on medium, it does miracles even when you have low RAM 

How to Apply Textures  :

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Textures 
• Set it on Medium/High/Epic 

11. Color Grading 

The problem: Fade graphic colors 

How Color Grading fixes fade colors: For the players with an artistic eye and a preference for good contrast and vibrant colors, this set is the perfect solution. It improves accuracy for all shades of any color, so you can enjoy Ark at the best quality and play with your creativity.

How will Color Grading give you an advantage: 

• FPS are not affected 
• It can be supported even by Low-end systems 
• Improves the overall aesthetic of the game 

How to apply Color Grading: 

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Color Grading
• Tick the box to turn it on 

10. View Distance  

The problem: Longer distance rendering is needed 

How View Distance fixes the problem: This one provides the maximum distance the game will load tiles. This way, a better, distant view of the map will be available, while maintaining an excellent game performance. Faster and further loading are truly important aspects of the gameplay and allow you to experience the best of Ark. 

How will View Distance give you an advantage: 

• Allows better orientation on the map by offering longer distance rendering
• When put on Medium, it offers both smoother and further loading of tiles and CPU/GPU resource-saving
• Improves the overall quality of the game 

How to apply View Distance:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for View Distance
• Set it on Medium

9.  World Tile Buffer  

The problem: transitions between areas are too slow 

How World Tile Buffer fixes the problem: Textures, areas, and structures are all stored in the buffer, so a quicker loading time is ensured when transitioning from one area to another. The setting doesn’t have an impact on FPS, so it’s safe to set it at least on Medium for any system. For even better graphics, don’t hesitate to set it on high. 

How will World Tile Buffer give you an advantage: 

• It allows quicker and more accurate loading of surroundings 
• The setting improves the overall quality of the game 
• It doesn’t affect FPS 

How to apply World Tile Buffer:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for World Tile Buffer
• Set it on Medium/High

8. Distance Field Ambient Occlusion 

The problem: Irrelevant graphic settings are decreasing your FPS 

How Distance Field Ambient Occlusion fixes the problem: The setting is the same as the one described above, with the distinction that it adds soft shadows to distant objects, instead of close ones. Such a feature contributes to the overall excellent graphics the game provides, but it can also be disabled easily, to increase FPS and performance.

How will Distance Field Ambient Occlusion give you an advantage: 

• FPS and loading speed can be increased by ticking the setting 
• It adds a realistic feeling to the game when it’s set on 

How to apply Distance Field Ambient Occlusion:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Distance Field Ambient Occlusion 
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

7. Light shafts 

The problem: not enough FPS, objects don’t have clear outlining due to increased brightness

How Light shafts fix the problem: Light shafts are particularly useful on shadow maps, caves, and other places that are protected from sunlight. They are rays of light that create a nice game of lights and shadows in temples and add a tense and fascinating atmosphere. However, this setting can decrease FPS and become annoying in open spaces, blinding you and not allowing objects to have proper outlining. So, simply turn it off when you need less brightness. 

How will Light shafts give you an advantage: 

• Special effects by using a game of light 
• Created a mysterious atmosphere in caves
• Can be easily turned off to increase FPS 
• When turned off, it enhances objects’ graphics 

How to apply Light shafts :

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Light shafts 
• Tick the box to turn it on/ off

6. Windowed mode  

The problem: the game won’t run smoothly, processing problems, slow map loading 

How Windowed mode fixes the problem: This is the most efficient setting when it comes to boosting any system’s performance and getting flawless loading. Simply set it on Fullscreen mode and observe how the whole dynamic of the game is changing for the better. Moreover, you’ll enjoy the game from an impressive perspective, teleporting into its world. 

How will Windowed mode give you an advantage: 

• You become much more motivated and invested in the game 
• Visual effects are considerably enhanced 
• You won’t get annoyed every 5 minutes by poor loading speed 
• Every graphic feature seems to improve 

How to apply Windowed mode:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Windowed mode
• Set it on Fullscreen

5. Terrain Shadows 

The problem: performance needs a boost

How Terrain Shadows fixes the problem: This one adds terrain shadows for a more accurate representation of the world, in exchange for great amounts of resources like VRAM and GPU. Overall, it’s better to keep in on low or medium and boost the performance of your PC, but if your system allows it, you can create an impressive visual aspect by combining Terrain shadows with other graphic features. 

How will Terrain Shadows give you an advantage: 

• Save importantVRAM & GPU by disabling it
• Keeping it low will allow the game to run smoother and will prevent lags 
• Enhance the graphics and feel like you’re stepping on the real ground by putting the setting on high 

How to apply Terrain Shadows:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Terrain Shadows 
• Set it on Low/Medium

4. Post-Processing  

The problem: poor graphics, blurred character lines, and disappointing aesthetics 

How Post-Processing fixes the problem: This complex and efficient setting can put a stop to most problems regarding graphics by itself. Post-Processing controls effects and values such as depth blurring, character lines, bloom, light rays, and many more. It has a great impact on the overall quality of the game, so it’s suggested to keep it as high as the system permits and create the best in-game experience. 

How will Post-Processing give you an advantage: 

• Set it on High for enhancing the game’s graphics 
• It controls details and rendering, having great power over visual quality 
• DON’T set it on low to enjoy the best graphic features of Ark 

How to apply Post-Processing:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Post-Processing
• Set it on High/Epic

3. Resolution 

The problem: blurred materials, unclear objects, and poor visual quality 

How Resolution fixes the problem: If blurred images and poor graphic quality is encountered, the first thing to check is the resolution. It is usually set in concordance with the system’s properties. However, the best thing to do if the system allows it is to set the Resolution to the max and enjoy an incredible game.

How will Resolution give you an advantage: 

• It depends on the hardware, so finding the best resolution for your computer will result in finding the best alternative for the game
• It adds details and clarity to the graphics 
• Helps with a smoother, faster loading game 

How to apply Resolution :

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Resolution 
• Set it on max

2. Anti-Aliasing

The problem:  All objects are poorly designed and represented 

How Anti-Aliasing fixes the problem: This setting creates a better design and representation of all objects by smoothening their edges and adding details to their shape. To sum it up, it allows a better, more accurate visual aspect of the game’s structures. 

How will Anti-Aliasing give you an advantage: 

• Set in on medium/high for a more accurate experience of Ark 
• It gives a sense of reality by controlling objects’ form 
• For low-end systems, setting it on Low will gain important FPS and GPU resources

How to apply Anti-Aliasing:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Anti-Aliasing
• Set it on Low/Medium

1. Resolution Scale 

The problem: Blurred objects, low graphic quality for both terrain and objects 

How Resolution Scalefixes the problem: You have no other choice than to set this on MAX. The resolution scale is crucial for the quality of the game and anything less than 100% will cause a massive cost of quality and performance. Not only will the graphics have to lose, but the game will move slower. 

How will Resolution Scale give you an advantage: 

• It guarantees the overall visual quality of Ark 
• You simply can’t play the game if it’s set on low 
• It’s a must for any experienced player, helping you better visualize structures throughout the game 

How to apply Resolution Scale:

• Start the game 
• Open the menu and select options 
• Find the section for “Graphics”, underneath “Audio” 
• Search for Resolution Scale
• Set it as high as possible 

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