KEY POINTS

  • The Steam version of "Lost Ark" can be played in restricted regions using a VPN
  • Accessing game content with a VPN is against Steam's user agreement policy
  • Players can use alternate Steam accounts or try "Lost Ark RU" via VPN instead

Despite the popularity of “Lost Ark,” some parts of the world are still not able to play the game due to regional restrictions. The latest release for NA and EU may have given plenty of gamers access to the world of Arkesia, but many other would-be players are still waiting for an official way to play “Lost Ark” in regions like Southeast Asia and Africa.

Normally, NA- and EU-only servers wouldn’t be a problem, but the IP restrictions imposed by Amazon Games have proven to be a bit of a predicament for players outside of these regions. Still, there is a way to go around them.

There are only two requirements for this:

  • A valid VPN subscription
  • A region-registered Steam account

First, create a separate Steam account that’s registered under one of the existing regions in the Western version of “Lost Ark,” be it the U.S., Australia, or any supported country in Europe. This is important because the game won’t appear in the Steam store if players have their original accounts registered in region-restricted areas.

Also, users might get a warning from Steam about suspicious IP activity involving their accounts, which might end up in temporary or permanent account restrictions.

Lost Ark is an isometric MMO with stunning visuals and epic combat
Lost Ark is an isometric MMO with stunning visuals and epic combat Amazon Games

Next, start the VPN software of choice and make sure to configure it properly. Different VPNs may have different ways of setting up programs, but the end goal is to mask Steam under a different IP that coincides with the new account’s registered location.

Once the VPN is configured, open Steam, then log in to the new account. Browse the Steam store and “Lost Ark” should be visible and available to download for free.

However, do keep in mind that Valve may still terminate Steam accounts that use IP proxying software as per the Steam subscriber agreement. This restriction was put in place to prevent users from abusing the different pricing structures across regions. One can argue that “Lost Ark” is a free game and that it should be fine to play with a VPN so long as players do not purchase anything.

Users are advised to try this method at their own risk.

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