So im not completely retarded, ive ran a server a few times now. for whatever reason every time i add ANY mod of any type i get mismatch error no matter how often i reload the server to update mods. ive tried un-subbing my mods several times and re-downloaded them all. Only way to get in is to disable all mods from server. thanks for any info!

Steam recently had an update that unfortunately had the side effect of corrupting lots of download cache items.

Due to this, steam thinks your mods are updated, but ARK knows they're not. Start by doing a verify files on ARK via steam, hoping that works.

As if it doesn't work you'll have to do a full Mod nuke and steam cache nuke.

1. Stop ARK if it is running

2. Create a list of all your ARK mods in the Steam Workshop

3. Unsubscribe from all ARK mods in the Steam Workshop

4. Delete the installed mod files by deleting all folders and files in “Steam\steamapps\common\ARK\ShooterGame\Content\Mods“

5. Delete the cached download files by deleting all folders and files in “Steam\steamapps\workshop\content\346110”

6. Restart Steam

7. Re-subscribe to your mods from your list (it is best to use the steam browser or web browser, joining a server is not a good idea)

8. Click this link > steam://validate/346110 and Let this process finish. (It can take a VERY long time.)

9. Start ARK and wait for the “Installing” text in the bottom right corner to vanish.

10. Done!

I will give this a go. Ty for your response!