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

Taming a high-level Phiomia in ARK: Survival Evolved is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful preparation and execution to ensure success. The Phiomia is a herbivorous creature that is commonly found in the game's starting areas, making it an excellent early-game resource gatherer and pack mule. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Phiomia, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

To begin, you need to understand the taming mechanics for the Phiomia. The Phiomia is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you will approach it and feed it the appropriate food to gain its trust. The preferred food for taming a Phiomia is vegetables, such as crops grown from farming plots, or berries. Vegetables are more effective and will speed up the taming process, but berries are easier to obtain early in the game. If you have access to kibble, such as Simple Kibble, it will significantly reduce the taming time and increase the taming effectiveness, resulting in a higher-level tame with better stats.

Before attempting to tame a Phiomia, gather the necessary resources. If you are using berries, collect a large quantity, as the Phiomia will consume them quickly. Mejoberries are the most effective, but any type of berry will work. If you are using vegetables, ensure you have a steady supply from your farm. Additionally, carry some narcotics or narcoberries to keep the Phiomia's torpor stable if it becomes agitated or if you accidentally hit it. Having a few stimulants on hand can also help if the Phiomia starts to flee.

When you locate a high-level Phiomia, approach it slowly and cautiously. Phiomias are generally docile, but they can become startled and run away if you move too quickly or make sudden movements. Once you are close enough, open your inventory and place the food (berries, vegetables, or kibble) in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly access the food when needed. To feed the Phiomia, press the corresponding hotkey while facing it. The Phiomia will eat the food, and its taming bar will increase slightly.

Repeat this process until the taming bar is full. The time it takes to tame a Phiomia depends on the level of the creature and the type of food you are using. High-level Phiomias will take longer to tame, so be patient. During the taming process, keep an eye on the Phiomia's behavior. If it starts to wander away, follow it closely and continue feeding it. Avoid attacking or startling the creature, as this will reset its taming progress.

One common mistake players make is not bringing enough food. High-level Phiomias require a significant amount of food to tame, so always bring more than you think you will need. Another mistake is not paying attention to the Phiomia's surroundings. Predators or other players can disrupt the taming process, so choose a safe location or build a temporary taming pen to protect the Phiomia during the process.

For advanced players, consider using a taming pen to make the process easier. A taming pen is a simple structure made of walls and a gate that traps the Phiomia, preventing it from running away. To build a taming pen, place four wooden or stone walls in a square formation, leaving one side open. Lure the Phiomia into the pen by standing in front of it and walking backward. Once the Phiomia is inside, close the gate to trap it. This method ensures the Phiomia stays in one place, making the taming process more efficient.

If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect the taming area. One player can focus on feeding the Phiomia while others keep watch for predators or hostile players. Solo players should prioritize safety and resource management, ensuring they have enough food and materials to complete the tame without interruptions.

In summary, taming a high-level Phiomia in ARK: Survival Evolved involves gathering the right food, approaching the creature carefully, and feeding it until the taming bar is full. Use vegetables or kibble for faster taming, and consider building a taming pen for added security. Avoid common mistakes like running out of food or startling the Phiomia, and always be prepared for potential threats. With patience and preparation, you can successfully tame a high-level Phiomia to aid in your survival and resource gathering efforts.