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

Taming a high-level Rock Elemental in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging tasks in the game due to its unique mechanics and high resistance to damage. Rock Elementals are massive, rock-like creatures found in the desert biomes of maps like Scorched Earth, Ragnarok, and Extinction. They are highly resistant to most forms of damage, making traditional taming methods ineffective. Instead, you must use a specific approach involving cannons or catapults to knock them out. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Rock Elemental effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics. Rock Elementals cannot be knocked out with tranq arrows, darts, or other conventional methods. Instead, you must use explosive damage from cannons or boulders from catapults to apply torpor. Each hit from a cannonball or catapult boulder will increase the Rock ElementalÔÇÖs torpor, eventually knocking it out. However, Rock Elementals have a unique mechanic where their torpor decreases rapidly over time, so you must act quickly and efficiently to keep the torpor rising. Additionally, Rock Elementals are immune to most forms of damage, so you cannot use weapons like guns or melee attacks to tame them.

To begin, youÔÇÖll need to prepare the necessary resources. For cannon taming, youÔÇÖll need a cannon, cannonballs, and a platform saddle on a Quetzal or another large creature to carry the cannon. For catapult taming, youÔÇÖll need a catapult, boulders, and a safe spot to operate from. YouÔÇÖll also need a large amount of sulfur, which is the preferred food for taming Rock Elementals. Sulfur can be found in desert biomes or harvested from rocks. Additionally, bring plenty of narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Rock Elemental unconscious once itÔÇÖs knocked out.

The first step is to locate a high-level Rock Elemental. These creatures are typically found in desert areas, so scout the map for a suitable target. Once youÔÇÖve found one, youÔÇÖll need to set up your taming method. If using a cannon, place it on a platform saddle attached to a Quetzal or another large creature. This allows you to maneuver the cannon into position while staying mobile. If using a catapult, find a high vantage point or build a small structure to protect yourself while firing.

Next, engage the Rock Elemental. Aim carefully with your cannon or catapult, as missed shots will waste valuable time and resources. Each hit will increase the torpor, but you must keep firing consistently to prevent the torpor from dropping. Rock Elementals have a high torpor decay rate, so you cannot afford to pause between shots. If youÔÇÖre using a cannon, aim for the body or head for maximum torpor gain. With a catapult, aim for the center mass to ensure the boulder hits.

Once the Rock Elemental is knocked out, quickly approach it and place the sulfur in its inventory. Monitor its torpor level closely and use narcotics or biotoxin to keep it unconscious. The taming process will take a significant amount of time, especially for high-level Rock Elementals, so be prepared to stay nearby and manage its torpor. Avoid leaving the area, as wild creatures or environmental hazards could disrupt the taming process.

There are several important tips to consider. First, always bring extra resources, as Rock Elementals can take many cannonballs or boulders to knock out. Second, use a taming calculator to estimate the number of hits and the amount of sulfur required for the specific level of the Rock Elemental youÔÇÖre taming. Third, consider using a trap to immobilize the Rock Elemental during the taming process. Building a large stone or metal trap with ramps can help you control its movement and make it easier to land shots.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong weapons, such as tranq arrows or guns, which are ineffective against Rock Elementals. Another mistake is not preparing enough resources, which can lead to a failed tame. Additionally, failing to monitor the torpor decay rate can result in the Rock Elemental waking up before the taming process is complete.

For advanced techniques, consider using a tribe to streamline the process. One player can operate the cannon or catapult while another manages the Rock ElementalÔÇÖs torpor and feeds it sulfur. This division of labor can make the taming process faster and more efficient. Additionally, using a Tek Hover Skiff or other advanced technology can help you position the cannon or catapult more precisely.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Rock Elemental requires careful preparation, precise execution, and patience. By using cannons or catapults, managing torpor effectively, and gathering the necessary resources, you can successfully tame one of the most powerful creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, mastering this process will give you a formidable ally for base defense, resource gathering, and combat.