I've got around 1.8k hours on Xbox Ark and I'm looking to play Atlas, how much knowledge is transferable?

Am I going to jump in and instantly know how to do everything or is this a unique experience from Ark completely?

The gameplay I've seen, the game seems like it was built using an early access version of Ark. The ui is the same, the models and textures are the same, the animations are the same. This is kind of off putting for me because I want to play a new game, not a reskin of a broken one. Will I enjoy this or am I going to face the same problems as early access ark.

Are the official servers like Ark, am I to avoid them at all costs unless I plan on spending years farming for 20 levels?

I know I've asked lots in this post but I would appreciate any responses.