‘Ark: The Animated Series’ Review - A Plotline With An Unrealized Potential

Based on the video game Ark: Survival Evolved, this show follows the life of  Helena Walker, an esteemed Australian paleontologist of the 21st century. If you have played this video game, you might want to watch the show. Here is what happens: Helena finds herself plunged into a whirlwind of grief and disorientation following the tragic passing of her beloved wife, Victoria. Desperately seeking solace one fateful night, she succumbs to the numbing embrace of pills and wine, only to awaken abruptly to a surreal reality: she is adrift in the vast expanse of an unfamiliar ocean.

In a heart-pounding struggle for survival, Helena narrowly evades the jaws of a menacing shark before being cast ashore onto the enigmatic shores of a peculiar island. As if emerging from a fever dream, she encounters an unexpected companion in the form of a wild Dodo, forging an unlikely bond with this curious creature amidst the island's mysteries.

However, her newfound sanctuary is soon disrupted by the presence of a formidable figure—Bob, a hunter hailing from a tribe of humans native to this strange land. It becomes apparent that Helena and Bob share a bewildering commonality: both have been inexplicably transported to this bewildering realm, devoid of rhyme or reason.

With survival hanging in the balance amidst the perils of prehistoric predators and the machinations of rival tribes, Bob assumes the role of mentor, imparting the rudiments of survival upon Helena. Together, they navigate the treacherous terrain, forging an alliance born of necessity amidst the backdrop of ancient beasts and cryptic technology.

As Helena grapples with the harsh realities of her newfound existence, she embarks on a journey of resilience and self-discovery, determined to unravel the mysteries of this primordial realm and unearth the means to return to her own world. Along the way, she encounters a kaleidoscope of allies and adversaries, each wielding their own agendas and secrets.

Amidst the backdrop of this fantastical landscape teeming with dinosaurs and tribal conflicts, Helena's indomitable spirit is tested to its limits as she navigates a labyrinth of intrigue and danger. With each step forward, she inches closer to unraveling the enigma of her arrival and charting a course back to the world she once knew—though the path is fraught with peril, and the price of survival may demand more than she ever imagined. From Sharks to Dodo, the show explores all themes of adventure. How will Helena tackle all this?

However, initially, the show launches with gusto, capturing your attention with its vibrant world and dynamic characters. The stage is set for an epic journey filled with excitement and discovery. However, as the plot unfolds, it becomes apparent that the series struggles to maintain its momentum.

When watching the show, it may feel as if you are watching an animated version of the Jumanji with how the story shapes up. The series, an adaptation of the video game could have been made better.  With a plot that had scope to do better, the show kicks off well but loses the pace in between.

While there are moments of brilliance, the narrative loses its way, meandering through subplots and losing sight of its overarching direction. What begins as a promising adventure gradually loses its grip, leaving viewers yearning for the depth and coherence that the premise initially promised.

The show, at one point, does feel to be an extension of the video game instead of a series, adding up to a plotline that lost its potential.  Despite these shortcomings, there's still a glimmer of potential waiting to be realized which makes it a one-time watch.

Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times