Today, Paramount+ unveiled its latest venture into the realm of video game adaptations with the release of “Ark: The Animated Series.”
Developed by Lost Continent Entertainment and Lex + Otis, the animated series is based on the immensely popular adventure video game, “Ark: Survival Evolved,” according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The first six episodes of the series, boasting an impressive voice cast including Michelle Yeoh and Vin Diesel, premiered on Paramount+ on March 21. This marks a significant move for the streaming platform, which has previously seen success with big-budget projects like the Halo live-action TV series.
“Ark: The Animated Series” promises viewers a sweeping saga spanning eons of human history, following protagonist Helena Walker (voiced by Madeleine Madden) as she navigates a mysterious primeval island filled with prehistoric beasts.
With the assistance of allies from different eras, Helena must unravel the secrets of this strange new world to ensure her survival.
The adaptation, which was first announced in 2020, comes after the monumental success of the Ark game, which sold over 1 million units within its first month of release in 2015. The animated series is helmed by game directors Jeremy Stieglitz and Jesse Rapczak, alongside notable producers such as Jay Oliva and Vin Diesel.
Paramount+ has been steadily expanding its roster of original content, with the Halo TV series already gaining traction on the platform. With the rising popularity of video game adaptations, fuelled by projects like HBO's "The Last of Us," Paramount+ is tapping into a dedicated fan base and a proven source of intellectual property.
While the streaming service has chosen to license “Ark: The Animated Series” rather than co-produce it, the move signifies Paramount+'s commitment to diversifying its offerings and catering to a broad spectrum of audiences.
Part two of the season, comprising seven episodes, is set to launch at a later date, further solidifying Paramount+'s position as a go-to destination for immersive storytelling experience.
