What is the best way to tame a high-level X-Tusoteuthis in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level X-Tusoteuthis in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging tasks in the game due to its unique mechanics and the dangers of the deep ocean. The X-Tusoteuthis, also known as the X-Tuso, is a massive squid-like creature found in the ocean biome. It is a powerful aquatic mount with the ability to grab and immobilize other creatures, making it a valuable asset for underwater combat and exploration. However, taming it requires careful preparation, precise execution, and a good understanding of its behavior.

The X-Tusoteuthis cannot be tamed using traditional knockout methods. Instead, it requires a passive taming approach, which involves feeding it Black Pearls while avoiding its attacks. The process is risky because the X-Tuso is highly aggressive and will attack anything that comes near it, including players and tamed creatures. To tame it, you must first locate one in the deep ocean. High-level X-Tusos are rare, so be prepared to spend time searching. Once you find one, you will need to approach it carefully and begin the taming process.

The first step is to gather the necessary resources. You will need a large supply of Black Pearls, which are the only food the X-Tuso will accept during taming. Black Pearls can be obtained from killing certain ocean creatures like Trilobites, Eurypterids, or Alpha Mosasaurs, or by harvesting them from specific nodes in the ocean. You will also need a strong aquatic mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a high-level Mosasaurus, to help you survive the taming process. Additionally, bring a set of scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to ensure you can stay underwater for extended periods.

When you are ready to begin taming, approach the X-Tuso cautiously. It will immediately attack if it detects you, so it is important to stay out of its reach. Use your aquatic mount to distract the X-Tuso while you position yourself behind it. The X-Tuso has a large hitbox, so you need to be close enough to feed it but far enough to avoid its tentacle attacks. Once you are in position, open your inventory and transfer the Black Pearls to the X-Tuso. Each feeding will increase its taming progress, but you must wait for its hunger to drop before feeding it again.

One of the most important tips for taming an X-Tuso is to avoid its grab attack. If it grabs you or your mount, it will deal massive damage and potentially kill you. To prevent this, always stay behind the X-Tuso and keep moving. If you are playing solo, this can be particularly challenging, as you will need to manage both your position and the X-Tuso's aggression. If you are in a tribe, consider having one player distract the X-Tuso while another feeds it. This can make the process much easier and safer.

Common mistakes to avoid include getting too close to the X-Tuso's front, where it can easily grab you, and running out of Black Pearls before the taming is complete. Always bring more Black Pearls than you think you will need, as the taming process can take a long time, especially for high-level X-Tusos. Additionally, avoid taming in areas with other aggressive ocean creatures, as they can interfere with the process and put you at greater risk.

Advanced techniques for taming an X-Tuso include using a taming pen or trap to immobilize it temporarily. While this is difficult to achieve in the open ocean, some players have successfully built underwater structures to trap the X-Tuso, making it easier to feed without being attacked. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact number of Black Pearls required for the level of X-Tuso you are taming. This can help you plan your resources more efficiently.

In terms of tribe versus solo considerations, taming an X-Tuso is significantly easier with a tribe. Having multiple players to distract and feed the X-Tuso reduces the risk of failure and makes the process faster. However, solo players can still tame an X-Tuso with careful planning and execution. Just be prepared for a longer and more dangerous process.

In conclusion, taming a high-level X-Tusoteuthis in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By gathering the necessary resources, understanding the mechanics, and following the strategies outlined above, you can successfully tame this powerful aquatic creature. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, patience and preparation are key to overcoming the dangers of the deep ocean and adding the X-Tuso to your collection of tamed creatures.