How do I tame a creature that requires cooked meat jerky in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a creature that requires cooked meat jerky in ARK: Survival Evolved involves a specific process that requires preparation, patience, and attention to detail. Cooked meat jerky is a preferred taming food for certain creatures, such as the Megalosaurus, and it is also used in some cases for passive taming. Below is a detailed explanation of the mechanics, strategies, and considerations for taming creatures that require cooked meat jerky.

First, you need to understand how to obtain cooked meat jerky. Cooked meat jerky is made by placing cooked meat, oil, and sparkpowder into a preserving bin or an industrial cooker. The preserving bin is the more accessible option for early to mid-game players, while the industrial cooker is a late-game alternative that speeds up the process. The preserving bin requires sparkpowder to function, which is crafted from stone and flint in a mortar and pestle. Once the ingredients are placed in the preserving bin, it takes approximately 50 minutes to produce one piece of cooked meat jerky. This process can be accelerated by using an industrial cooker, which reduces the time significantly. It is important to note that cooked meat jerky also has a long spoilage time, making it a reliable food source for taming and general use.

Once you have the cooked meat jerky, the next step is to locate the creature you wish to tame. For example, if you are taming a Megalosaurus, you will need to find one in the caves where they spawn. Megalosaurs are nocturnal creatures, so they are most active at night and will be asleep during the day. This makes daytime the ideal period to approach them for taming. However, be cautious, as caves are dangerous environments filled with hostile creatures.

For knockout taming, you will need to render the creature unconscious. This can be achieved using tranquilizer arrows, tranquilizer darts, or other knockout methods. The Megalosaurus, for instance, has a high torpor level, so you will need a significant amount of narcotics or biotoxin to keep it unconscious during the taming process. Once the creature is knocked out, place the cooked meat jerky in its inventory. The creature will consume the jerky over time, gradually increasing its taming effectiveness. It is crucial to monitor the creature's torpor level and replenish it with narcotics or biotoxin as needed to prevent it from waking up prematurely.

Passive taming, on the other hand, involves approaching the creature without provoking it and feeding it the cooked meat jerky directly. This method requires patience and careful movement to avoid startling the creature. For example, if you are taming a passive creature like the Hesperornis, you will need to approach it slowly and feed it the jerky without making sudden movements. Passive taming is generally safer but can take longer depending on the creature's taming requirements.

Resource preparation is key to a successful tame. Ensure you have enough cooked meat jerky, narcotics, and other necessary supplies before starting the taming process. For a Megalosaurus, you may need around 20 to 30 pieces of cooked meat jerky, depending on its level and taming effectiveness. Additionally, having a taming pen or trap can make the process easier by preventing the creature from escaping or being attacked by other predators. A simple taming pen can be constructed using stone or metal foundations, walls, and gates.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the amount of resources needed, failing to monitor the creature's torpor level, and not preparing a safe environment for taming. For example, attempting to tame a Megalosaurus in a cave without clearing out nearby threats can lead to interruptions or even death. Always scout the area and eliminate potential dangers before starting the taming process.

Advanced techniques include using taming calculators to determine the exact amount of food and time required for each creature. These tools can help optimize the taming process by providing precise information based on the creature's level and your server's settings. Additionally, using kibble instead of cooked meat jerky can significantly speed up the taming process and improve taming effectiveness. However, kibble requires more preparation, as it involves collecting eggs and other ingredients.

Tribe and solo considerations also play a role in taming. In a tribe, multiple players can work together to gather resources, build taming pens, and protect the taming area. This can make the process faster and more efficient. Solo players, on the other hand, need to be more self-reliant and should prioritize safety and preparation. For example, solo players may want to use traps or taming pens to minimize risks.

In summary, taming a creature that requires cooked meat jerky in ARK: Survival Evolved involves careful preparation, resource management, and attention to detail. Whether you are taming a Megalosaurus or a Hesperornis, understanding the mechanics, avoiding common mistakes, and using advanced techniques can greatly improve your chances of success. By following these strategies and tips, you can efficiently tame creatures and enhance your survival and progression in the game.