How do I safely knock out a Carnotaurus without it killing me in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Carnotaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved can be a challenging but rewarding task, especially for players looking to add a strong mid-tier carnivore to their team. The Carnotaurus is a fast and aggressive predator, so knocking it out safely requires careful planning and execution. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Carnotaurus effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of knocking out a Carnotaurus. Carnotaurus, like most carnivores in ARK, must be rendered unconscious before taming. This is done by increasing its torpor, a stat that represents its unconsciousness level. Torpor can be increased by using weapons like slingshots, bows with tranq arrows, or crossbows with tranq darts. Tranq arrows and darts are the most effective tools for this task, as they deal significant torpor damage while minimizing health damage. The Carnotaurus has a moderate torpor level, so it wonÔÇÖt take an excessive amount of hits to knock it out, but it will require careful aim and timing.

To begin, youÔÇÖll need to prepare the necessary resources. For a solo player, a crossbow with tranq arrows is highly recommended, as it deals more torpor damage than a bow. YouÔÇÖll also need narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Carnotaurus unconscious during the taming process. Additionally, bring plenty of raw meat or prime meat, as these are the preferred foods for taming a Carnotaurus. Prime meat will speed up the taming process significantly, so prioritize gathering it if possible. Finally, wear armor to protect yourself from its attacks, and consider bringing a shield to block its charges.

The next step is to locate a Carnotaurus. These creatures are commonly found in open areas like grasslands and deserts. Once youÔÇÖve found one, assess the surroundings to ensure there are no other aggressive predators nearby. Carnotaurus can be dangerous on their own, but fighting multiple creatures at once will make the situation much harder. If necessary, lure the Carnotaurus to a safer area using a ranged weapon or by running in and out of its aggro range.

To knock out the Carnotaurus, start by shooting it with tranq arrows or darts from a safe distance. Aim for the head if possible, as this will deal more torpor damage. After each shot, retreat to maintain distance and avoid its attacks. Carnotaurus are fast, so keep moving and use terrain to your advantage, such as rocks or trees, to create barriers between you and the dinosaur. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, this can be tricky, so consider building a taming pen beforehand. A simple pen with stone or metal walls and a ramp can trap the Carnotaurus, making it easier to knock out without risking your safety.

Once the Carnotaurus is unconscious, quickly place the raw meat or prime meat in its inventory. Monitor its torpor level and feed it narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious. The taming process will take some time, especially if youÔÇÖre using raw meat, so stay alert for other predators that might attack the unconscious Carnotaurus. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, having a teammate guard the area can be very helpful.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the CarnotaurusÔÇÖs speed and aggression. It can close the distance quickly, so always maintain a safe distance while shooting. Another mistake is not bringing enough narcotics or food, which can lead to the Carnotaurus waking up before the taming is complete. Always prepare extra resources to account for unexpected delays.

For advanced players, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of resources needed based on the CarnotaurusÔÇÖs level. Additionally, using kibble made from Rex or Spino eggs will significantly speed up the taming process and improve the taming effectiveness. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with teammates to divide tasks, such as gathering resources, guarding the area, and shooting the Carnotaurus.

In summary, taming a Carnotaurus requires careful preparation, precise execution, and constant vigilance. By using the right tools, building a taming pen, and monitoring the dinosaurÔÇÖs torpor and hunger levels, you can successfully tame this powerful predator. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you add a Carnotaurus to your team and enhance your survival in ARK: Survival Evolved.