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

Taming a high-level Equus in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its unique taming mechanics. The Equus 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 to help you successfully tame a high-level Equus.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of taming an Equus. Unlike many other creatures, the Equus cannot be knocked out with tranquilizers. Instead, you must approach it slowly and feed it its preferred food, which is Rockarrot, Crops, or Kibble. Rockarrots are the easiest to obtain early in the game, as they can be grown in crop plots. Kibble, specifically Superior Kibble, is the most effective and will speed up the taming process significantly. However, it requires more preparation, as you need to gather eggs, meat, and other resources to craft it.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need a good supply of Rockarrots or Superior Kibble, depending on your preference. If you choose Rockarrots, plant them in a crop plot and wait for them to grow. If you opt for Superior Kibble, you will need to collect eggs from creatures like the Yutyrannus or Therizinosaurus, along with other ingredients like Fiber, Mejoberries, and Cooked Meat Jerky. Additionally, you will need a set of armor to protect yourself from potential threats, as well as a weapon to defend against predators that may attack you or the Equus during the taming process.

Next, locate a high-level Equus. These creatures are commonly found in the grasslands and desert areas of the map, such as the area around the Red Obelisk on The Island. Once you find one, approach it slowly. The Equus is skittish and will run away if you move too quickly or make sudden movements. Crouch and move toward it at a steady pace. If it starts to run, stop and wait for it to calm down before continuing your approach.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the Rockarrots or Superior Kibble in the last slot of your hotbar. This will allow you to quickly access the food when needed. Approach the Equus from behind and press the appropriate button to feed it. Be patient, as the Equus may take a few moments to accept the food. After feeding it, back away slowly to avoid startling it. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full.

One important tip is to build a taming pen to make the process easier. Construct a small enclosure using stone or metal walls and a gate. Lure the Equus into the pen by leading it with food or using a Bola to immobilize it temporarily. Once inside, close the gate to prevent it from escaping. This will allow you to tame it without worrying about it running away or being attacked by predators.

Common mistakes to avoid include moving too quickly or making sudden movements, which can scare the Equus and cause it to flee. Additionally, do not attempt to tame an Equus in an area with many predators, as they can interrupt the process and potentially kill the Equus. Always be prepared with weapons and armor to defend yourself and the Equus during the taming process.

Advanced techniques include using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for taming. This can help you plan your resources and ensure you have enough food to complete the tame. Additionally, using a taming pen with a roof can prevent flying predators from attacking the Equus during the process.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial for a successful tame. Ensure you have enough Rockarrots or Superior Kibble, as well as narcotics or stimulants in case the Equus becomes agitated. Having a backup plan, such as extra food or a secondary taming pen, can also help if something goes wrong.

Tribe and solo considerations differ slightly. In a tribe, you can have one player distract or protect the Equus while another feeds it, making the process faster and safer. Solo players must be more cautious and prepared, as they will need to handle all aspects of the taming process alone.

In specific scenarios, such as taming an Equus in a dangerous area, it is essential to clear the area of predators beforehand. Use a ranged weapon to eliminate any threats, and consider building a temporary shelter to protect yourself and the Equus during the taming process.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully tame a high-level Equus in ARK: Survival Evolved. This versatile creature can be used for transportation, resource gathering, and even combat, making it a valuable addition to your team.