Purpose

Server restarts and updates should be handled in a way that provides players with as much notice as possible while ensuring the server remains stable and secure. Our goal is to minimize disruption and give players enough time to safely finish their activities before the server goes offline.

Authorized Staff

Server restarts and updates may only be initiated by:

• Admins
• Developer

Rapid or emergency shutdowns, updates, or restarts should only occur:

During a server or security emergency that requires immediate action.

With Admin approval,

or

During a server or security emergency that requires immediate action.

Rapid shutdown is anything 5 minutes and under.

Standard Restart Procedure

If a scheduled restart or game update is required, provide players with at least one hour’s notice whenever possible.

Announcement Schedule

Send announcements at the following intervals:

• ⏰ 1 Hour Warning
• ⏰ 30 Minute Warning
• ⏰ 15 Minute Warning

Additional reminders may be sent if needed so that players who have recently logged in are also aware of the upcoming restart.

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Staff Communication Responsibilities

ADmin/Pixel Manager

• Coordinate the restart or update.
• Ensure all warning announcements are sent.
• Confirm when the server is ready to go offline and when it returns online.

Pixel Equalizer

If online, assist by:

• Sending in-game announcements.
• Posting Discord reminders.
• Helping answer player questions regarding the restart.

Discord Moderator

If online, assist by:

• Posting restart announcements in Discord.
• Answering player questions.
• Helping ensure players receive the scheduled warnings.

Pixel Moderator

If a Pixel Equalizer is unavailable, Pixel Moderators may assist with:

• In-game announcements.
• Discord reminders.
• Player communication during the restart process.

Emergency Restarts

Emergency restarts should only be performed when absolutely necessary, such as:

• Server instability
• Security concerns
• Critical game-breaking issues
• Admin-directed emergency maintenance

When possible, still provide players with a brief warning before shutting the server down.

Player Consideration

While waiting an hour for a restart may seem lengthy for players eager to join the server, it is important to respect those who are already playing.

Many activities within ARK require significant time to complete. For example:

Genesis Part 1 missions
Boss preparation
Cave runs
Taming or breeding activities
Other long-duration gameplay

Some missions can take 20 minutes or longer to finish. Providing advance notice gives players the opportunity to safely complete their current activity, return valuable creatures, and log out without unnecessary losses.

Our goal is to balance the needs of players waiting to join with the experience of those already invested in gameplay.

Staff Expectations

Communicate clearly and professionally.

Follow the scheduled warning intervals whenever possible.

Coordinate with other staff members to ensure announcements are consistent.

Avoid unnecessary or unplanned restarts.

Prioritize player communication while maintaining server stability and security.