Ark: Survival Evolved developer Studio Wildcard has decided to push back an in-game celebration, in light of ongoing racial justice protests across the country. The event was to highlight the launch of the free Crystal Isles map mod this week, but the studio has set a new launch date for Thursday, June 11.

"Given the situation in the US, and the rest of the world right now, we will be rescheduling the Ark in-game celebration until Thursday, June 11," reads a note from the studio. "We understand that our community has much anticipated the Ark in-game party and the launch of Crystal Isles, and we're looking forward to sharing all we have prepared for you next week. We felt it would be inappropriate to celebrate milestones during the present time as there are bigger things afoot, and that outweighs any plans we otherwise had. We believe now is the time to be respectful and hear the voices of others."

The Crystal Isles mod has been available since 2016, but this update will make it official. It's being paired with an anniversary event that will include special decorations and events. Lead community manager Cedric Burkes followed up on Twitter to point out that the content isn't being delayed because it isn't ready.

I have commonly said when an update isn't ready. Most of you know me. That sincerely isn't the case here.
I see how you may jump to the conclusion, but I've always been straight up. Many of you can attest.
Uplift, don't bring people down.
— Cedric (@ComplexMinded) June 4, 2020

This is the latest in a line of several game events and announcements that have been delayed in recent days due to ongoing protests regarding racial justice and police brutality. GameSpot encourages its readers to donate to Black Lives Matter and get involved. We are also raising money for Black Lives Matter, as well as coronavirus relief, through Play For All. Check out the Play For All schedule for more.

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