What is the best way to tame a low-level Carnotaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a low-level Carnotaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful preparation and execution. The Carnotaurus is a medium-sized carnivore that can be a valuable early to mid-game mount for combat and transportation. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Carnotaurus effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and common mistakes.

To begin, you need to understand the taming mechanics for the Carnotaurus. This dinosaur is a knockout tame, meaning you must render it unconscious before feeding it the appropriate food. Carnotaurus prefers raw meat, raw prime meat, or kibble made from Rex or Spino eggs. Raw prime meat and kibble will significantly speed up the taming process, but raw meat is more accessible for beginners. You will also need narcotics or narcoberries to keep the Carnotaurus unconscious during the taming process.

The first step is to gather the necessary resources. You will need a weapon to knock out the Carnotaurus, such as a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or crossbow with tranq arrows. Tranquilizer darts are more effective but require a longneck rifle, which may not be available early in the game. Additionally, gather plenty of narcotics or narcoberries to maintain the Carnotaurus's torpor. You will also need raw meat or better taming food, as mentioned earlier. It is advisable to build a taming pen to make the process safer and more efficient. A simple pen can be constructed using stone or wood foundations and walls, with a ramp leading into it. This will allow you to lure the Carnotaurus into the pen and trap it, preventing it from escaping or being attacked by other predators.

Once you have your resources and taming pen ready, locate a low-level Carnotaurus. Low-level dinosaurs are easier to knock out and tame, making them ideal for beginners. Approach the Carnotaurus carefully, as it is aggressive and will attack if it sees you. Use your weapon to shoot it with tranq arrows or darts, aiming for the head to maximize torpor gain. Be prepared to dodge its attacks, as it can deal significant damage. Once the Carnotaurus is unconscious, quickly place it in the taming pen if you haven't already. This will protect it from other predators and make the taming process smoother.

Next, open the Carnotaurus's inventory and place the raw meat or preferred taming food inside. Monitor its torpor level, which will gradually decrease over time. Use narcotics or narcoberries to keep the torpor high enough to prevent it from waking up. You can force-feed narcoberries or narcotics by placing them in its inventory and using the "Remote Use" option. Be careful not to overfeed, as this can cause the torpor to spike and potentially waste resources. The taming progress will increase as the Carnotaurus consumes the food. Higher-quality food like raw prime meat or kibble will speed up the process, so prioritize these if available.

During the taming process, keep an eye on your surroundings. Other predators or players may pose a threat to you or the unconscious Carnotaurus. If you are playing solo, consider building a small shelter nearby to protect yourself and the dinosaur. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to guard the area and assist with the taming process. Communication and teamwork can make the process faster and safer.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the Carnotaurus's aggression, failing to prepare enough narcotics, and not securing the area. Always approach the Carnotaurus with caution and have an escape plan if things go wrong. Running out of narcotics can lead to the dinosaur waking up prematurely, ruining the tame. Additionally, failing to protect the unconscious Carnotaurus from other predators can result in its death, wasting your time and resources.

Advanced techniques for optimizing the taming process include using taming calculators to determine the exact amount of food and narcotics needed. These tools can help you plan your resources more efficiently. Another tip is to use a taming pen with a roof to prevent flying predators from attacking the Carnotaurus. If you have access to a flying mount, such as a Pteranodon, you can use it to scout for Carnotaurus and transport resources more easily.

In summary, taming a low-level Carnotaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved involves preparing the right resources, building a secure taming pen, and carefully knocking out the dinosaur. Use raw meat, raw prime meat, or kibble to tame it, and maintain its torpor with narcotics or narcoberries. Protect the unconscious Carnotaurus from predators and other threats, and monitor the taming progress closely. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a Carnotaurus and add a powerful ally to your team. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you achieve a successful tame and enhance your survival in the game.