How do I tame a high-level Megaloceros in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Megaloceros in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. The Megaloceros, also known as the "deer" or "elk," is a versatile creature that can be used for transportation, resource gathering, and even combat. It is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the right food to gain its trust. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Megaloceros effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. The Megaloceros is a herbivore, so it prefers plant-based foods. The most effective taming foods for the Megaloceros are Rare Flowers, Rare Mushrooms, and crops like Rockarrot, Longrass, Savoroot, and Citronal. Rare Flowers and Rare Mushrooms are the best options for faster taming, but they are harder to obtain. Crops are easier to farm and can still be used effectively, though the taming process will take longer. The Megaloceros is a skittish creature, so you must approach it slowly and avoid sudden movements. If you scare it, it will run away, and you will need to start the process over.

To begin taming, you need to prepare the necessary resources. If you are using crops, make sure you have a steady supply of Rockarrot, Longrass, Savoroot, or Citronal. These can be grown in crop plots using seeds and fertilizer. If you are using Rare Flowers or Rare Mushrooms, you will need to gather them from dangerous areas like caves or swamp biomes. Additionally, you should wear Ghillie Armor to reduce your visibility and make it easier to approach the Megaloceros without scaring it. Bring a few stacks of the chosen food, as high-level Megaloceros will require a significant amount to tame.

Next, locate a high-level Megaloceros. These creatures are commonly found in forests, grasslands, and snowy areas. Once you find one, crouch and approach it slowly from behind. Avoid running or making sudden movements, as this will startle the creature. When you are close enough, open its inventory and place the food inside. The Megaloceros will eat the food over time, and its taming progress will increase. Be patient, as this process can take several minutes, especially for high-level creatures. Keep an eye on its taming effectiveness, which decreases if it takes damage or eats the wrong food.

One important tip is to clear the area of predators before starting the taming process. Carnivores like Raptors, Sabertooths, or Wolves can attack the Megaloceros and ruin your taming progress. If you are playing solo, consider building a small taming pen using wooden or stone structures to trap the Megaloceros safely. This will prevent it from running away or being attacked by other creatures. If you are in a tribe, you can have a teammate help by scouting the area or providing additional resources.

A common mistake to avoid is approaching the Megaloceros too quickly or without proper preparation. If you scare it, it will flee, and you may lose track of it in dense forests or snowy areas. Another mistake is not bringing enough food. High-level Megaloceros can require a large amount of food, so always bring extra to avoid running out mid-tame. Additionally, avoid using low-quality food like berries, as this will significantly slow down the taming process.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the specific level of Megaloceros you are taming. This will help you plan your resources more efficiently. You can also use a taming pen with a ramp to lure the Megaloceros inside, making it easier to tame without interruptions. If you are in a tribe, assign roles to each member, such as one person gathering food while another builds the taming pen. This will streamline the process and make it more efficient.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need at least 20-30 Rare Flowers or Rare Mushrooms for a high-level Megaloceros, or several stacks of crops if you are using those. Ghillie Armor is highly recommended, as it reduces your visibility and makes it easier to approach the creature. If you are building a taming pen, gather enough wood or stone to construct walls and a ramp. Bring a few extra resources in case you need to repair or expand the pen.

Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the process remains largely the same. However, tribes can benefit from teamwork by dividing tasks and covering more ground. For example, one player can gather food while another scouts for a high-level Megaloceros. Solo players should focus on preparation and patience, as they will need to handle all aspects of the taming process alone.

In specific scenarios, such as taming in a snowy biome, you may need to wear Fur Armor to protect yourself from the cold. Additionally, be cautious of predators like Direwolves or Yetis, which are common in these areas. In forested areas, watch out for Raptors or Carnotaurus, which can disrupt your taming efforts. Always be prepared to defend yourself and the Megaloceros during the taming process.

By following these steps and strategies, you can successfully tame a high-level Megaloceros in ARK: Survival Evolved. With patience, preparation, and careful execution, you will have a powerful and versatile creature to aid you in your survival and exploration.