> ## Documentation Index
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> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Configure the Genesis Hex Shop in Ark

> Master the HLNA Hexagon Store on Genesis maps. Learn how to adjust reward rates and the best methods for customizing the in-game economy.

## Managing the HLNA Economy

The HLNA Hexagon Store is a central feature of the Genesis Part 1 and Part 2 maps, allowing players to exchange mission points (Hexagons) for high-tier resources and equipment. While powerful, the shop is notoriously difficult to customize through standard configuration files. This guide explains your options for managing and balancing the Hexagon economy.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Difficulty" icon="gauge-low">
    Intermediate
  </Card>

  <Card title="Time" icon="clock">
    5 Minutes
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## The Limitations of Native Configs

Unlike taming or harvesting, Ark's native engine does not provide a straightforward `PriceMultiplier` for the Hexagon Shop. Customizing the items themselves requires overriding deep crate definitions in the `Game.ini`, a process that is highly unstable and often breaks during official game updates.

***

## Recommended Solution: Server Plugins

For precise control over prices and item availability, we strongly recommend using external management plugins rather than fighting the built-in INI system.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Install Ark Server API">
    Use the FREAKHOSTING Game Panel to install the **Ark Server API** (C++ Loader). This provides the framework needed for advanced plugins.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add ArkShop Plugin">
    Install a plugin like **ArkShop**. This allows you to create a custom, cross-map currency system and shop UI.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure Prices">
    Define your items and prices in a simple `config.json` file. This method is far more stable and user-friendly than raw INI edits.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## The INI Alternative: Adjusting Earnings

If you prefer to stay "vanilla" and avoid plugins, the most effective way to balance the shop is by adjusting the rate at which players earn Hexagons. This simulates price changes by making the currency more or less abundant.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Double Rewards">
    To effectively make items half-price, you can double the rewards from all missions. Add this to your `GameUserSettings.ini` under `[ServerSettings]`:

    ```ini theme={null}
    HexagonRewardMultiplier=2.0
    ```
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Hardcore Economy">
    For a more challenging experience where resources must be gathered manually, you can reduce mission rewards:

    ```ini theme={null}
    HexagonRewardMultiplier=0.5
    ```
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

***

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***

<div align="center">
  **Last Updated:** January 2026 | **Economy:** Trading in the simulation.
</div>