Transferring a Vanilla save to an Ark: Survival Evolved server with ArkAPI support allows hosters to implement advanced server-side plugins and mods without losing any existing player progress, structures, or tamed creatures. The process primarily involves locating the original map save file and relocating it to the new server's dedicated save directory. Once the files are in place, launching the server with ArkAPI properly configured ensures a seamless transition while unlocking enhanced administrative tools and gameplay features.
Note: Make backups locally to avoid losing any necessary files.
1. Log in to the BisectHosting Starbase panel.
2. From the My Servers tab, choose the vanilla server.
3. Stop the server.
4. Go to the Files tab.
5. Find the following directory: /home/container/ShooterGame/Saved/SavedArks
6. Download the desired .ark, .arkprofile, .arktribe files.
Note: The .arkprofile can be renamed to the desired SteamID64. Learn how to find SteamID64 here.
7. Return to the Files tab.
8. Find the following directory: home/container/ShooterGame/Saved/Configs/LinuxServer
9. Download the Game.ini and GameUserSettings.ini files.
10. From the My Servers tab, choose the ArkAPI server. Learn how to install ArkAPI Support here.
11. Stop the server.
12. Go to the Files tab.
13. Find the following directory: /home/container/ShooterGame/Saved/SavedArks
14. Upload the files from step 6.
15. Unarchive the uploaded files.
16. Go to the Startup tab.
17. From the Load Map field, ensure the name matches the file from step 15.
18. Go to the Files tab.
19. Find the following directory: /home/container/ShooterGame/Saved/Configs/WindowsServer
20. Upload the files from step 9.
21. Unarchive the uploaded files.
22. Start the server.