Most of the time, this happens because you’re missing or haven’t installed required DLCs like Genesis, Aberration, or Extinction, which the server or mod needs. It can also be caused by broken game files, workshop mods that you’ve unsubscribed from, or map files that aren’t set up correctly.
1. Launch the Game Directly from the Installation Directory
The assertion failed error may occur if Steam has trouble launching the game, or if the game’s desktop shortcut is corrupted. In this case, starting the game directly from its installation folder could resolve the issue.
2. Launch Steam/Ark With Administrator Privileges
Recent versions of Windows have stronger privacy and security protections, including User Account Control (UAC). The assertion failed error can occur if UAC prevents Ark or Steam from accessing important system resources. Running Steam or the game as an administrator allows it to get the permissions it needs.
3. Verify Integrity of Game Files
The error can also appear if Ark’s game files are corrupted. Verifying the integrity of the game files will scan for missing or corrupted files and automatically replace them with the correct versions from Steam.
4. Unsubscribe from All Mods and Reinstall Maps/DLC
Mods add custom content to Ark using the Steam Workshop (more info). If a mod is corrupted or not compatible with your game version, it can lead to assertion failed errors. Unsubscribing from all mods and reinstalling any maps or DLCs can help fix the problem.
5. Reinstall the Steam Client
If nothing else has worked, it’s possible that your Steam installation is corrupted. Reinstalling Steam may resolve the issue.
