ARK: Survival Evolved, a game launched in 2017, has captured the imagination of players with its prehistoric setting and survival challenges. As you navigate this vast world, customizing your game with unique icons and banners can make your experience even more immersive. This blog will guide you through the process of creating and using custom game icons and banners in ARK.
What Are Game Icons and Banners?
Understanding Game Icons
Game icons in ARK: Survival Evolved represent various in-game elements such as tribes, tamed creatures, or items. These small images allow players to personalize their experience and visually organize their gameplay. Customizing icons helps you create a distinctive identity, making your presence known in the world of ARK.
Exploring Banners
Banners in ARK serve as larger, more prominent symbols that can be displayed on flags, walls, or signs. They can signify tribe ownership, celebrate significant milestones, or add a decorative element to your base. Custom banners allow you to express your creativity and make your in-game environment uniquely yours.
How to Create Custom Icons and Banners
Steps to Create Custom Icons
- Design Your Icon: Start by using image editing software like Photoshop or GIMP. For best results, create your design with a size of 256×256 pixels.
- Convert to .PNT Format: Save your completed design as a .PNT file using a tool like ARK Paint Converter, which converts your image into the format recognized by ARK.
- Upload and Apply: Transfer the .PNT file to the “MyPaintings” folder in your ARK game directory. You can then apply the icon in-game using a paintbrush or through the tribe settings.
Creating Custom Banners
Creating banners follows a similar process to icons but usually involves a larger design canvas, typically 256×512 pixels. Once you’ve created your banner, save it as a .PNT file and upload it to the same folder. In-game, you can display your custom banners on various structures, giving your base a unique look.
Design Tips
- Keep it Simple: Icons should be straightforward and easily recognizable.
- Use Bold Colors: Ensure your icons and banners stand out against ARK’s diverse backgrounds.
- Incorporate ARK Themes: Use elements like dinosaurs or tools to make your designs feel integrated with the game’s world.
Where to Find and Share Custom Designs
Community Resources
The ARK community is vibrant and creative, offering numerous platforms where you can find or share custom icons and banners:
- Steam Workshop: A vast library of player-created content, where you can download and share designs.
- Reddit: The ARK subreddit is a great place to discover new designs and get inspiration.
- Discord: Many ARK-focused Discord servers feature channels dedicated to custom art and design tips.
Sharing Your Creations
When sharing your designs, ensure you credit any original creators and provide the files in .PNT format for easy use by others. Engaging with the community by offering feedback and participating in discussions can also help you improve your own skills.
Conclusion
Customizing your ark: survival evolved (2017) game icons banners is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your gameplay experience. By adding personal touches to your tribe’s symbols or decorating your base, you can make the world of ARK feel truly your own. Dive into the creative possibilities and let your imagination run wild in this prehistoric adventure!
