What is the best way to tame a creature that requires a specific type of trap in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved that require specific traps involves a combination of preparation, strategy, and execution. These creatures often have unique behaviors or abilities that make them difficult to tame without the right setup. For example, creatures like the Argentavis, Carnotaurus, or even the elusive Thylacoleo often require traps to safely and efficiently tame them. Below is a detailed guide on how to approach this process.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of trapping. Traps are structures designed to immobilize a creature temporarily, allowing you to safely knock it out or feed it without it escaping or attacking you. The most common type of trap is a simple pen made of stone or metal foundations, walls, and doorframes. The idea is to lure the creature into the trap and then close it off, preventing escape. For flying creatures, you may need to use a trap with a roof or a specific design to keep them grounded.

To build a trap, you will need resources like stone, wood, or metal, depending on the creature's strength. For example, a Carnotaurus can break wooden structures, so a stone or metal trap is recommended. Gather the necessary materials beforehand, including foundations, walls, doorframes, and ramps. The ramp is crucial for luring the creature into the trap. Place the ramp leading into the trap, and once the creature is inside, you can remove the ramp or close the entrance with a doorframe.

Next, you need to prepare the tools and resources for taming. For knockout taming, you will need weapons like a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts. You will also need narcotics or biotoxin to keep the creature unconscious during the taming process. For passive taming, gather the creature's preferred food, such as kibble, berries, or meat. Kibble is often the best choice as it speeds up the taming process and increases taming effectiveness.

Once the trap is built and your resources are ready, the next step is to lure the creature into the trap. This can be done by aggroing the creature and leading it into the trap. Be careful not to take too much damage, especially from stronger creatures. Use a fast mount or wear armor to protect yourself. Once the creature is inside the trap, close the entrance and proceed with the taming process.

For knockout taming, start by shooting the creature with tranq arrows or darts until it falls unconscious. Be mindful of its torpor level, as it will decrease over time. Use narcotics or biotoxin to keep the torpor high while you feed it the required food. For passive taming, approach the creature carefully and feed it the preferred food. Avoid sudden movements or getting too close, as this can startle the creature and reset the taming progress.

There are several important tips to consider. First, always scout the area before starting the taming process. Make sure there are no other predators nearby that could interfere. Second, bring extra resources in case something goes wrong, such as the creature breaking free or running out of narcotics. Third, use taming calculators or guides to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the creature you are taming. This will help you plan accordingly and avoid wasting resources.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of trap or materials. For example, using a wooden trap for a strong creature like a Carnotaurus will result in the trap being destroyed. Another mistake is not monitoring the creature's torpor level, which can lead to it waking up before the taming process is complete. Additionally, failing to secure the area can result in other creatures attacking you or the trapped dinosaur, ruining the taming attempt.

Advanced techniques include using multiple traps or layered defenses to handle stronger or more aggressive creatures. For example, you can build a series of traps to funnel the creature into a specific area, making it easier to control. You can also use taming pens with multiple entrances and exits to trap multiple creatures at once. Another optimization is to use taming effectiveness boosters, such as kibble or taming-affecting server settings, to speed up the process and improve the creature's stats after taming.

Resource requirements vary depending on the creature and the trap design. For a basic stone trap, you will need around 100 stone, 50 wood, and 20 thatch. For a metal trap, you will need metal ingots, which require a forge to craft. Always gather extra resources to account for any mistakes or unexpected events. Preparation is key, so make sure you have everything you need before starting the taming process.

Tribe and solo considerations also play a role. In a tribe, you can divide tasks, such as one person building the trap while another gathers resources or lures the creature. This makes the process faster and more efficient. Solo players will need to handle everything themselves, so planning and preparation are even more critical. Make sure you have a safe location to store your resources and a backup plan in case things go wrong.

Specific examples include taming an Argentavis, which is a flying creature that requires a trap with a roof. Build a 2x2 stone or metal trap with a ramp leading into it. Lure the Argentavis into the trap and close the entrance. Use tranq arrows or darts to knock it out, then feed it raw meat or kibble while keeping its torpor high with narcotics. Another example is taming a Thylacoleo, which can climb trees and is highly aggressive. Use a trap with high walls and a roof to prevent it from escaping, and be prepared for a long taming process due to its high torpor and health.

In conclusion, taming creatures that require specific traps in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding process. By understanding the mechanics, preparing the right resources, and following a strategic approach, you can successfully tame even the most difficult creatures. Always be mindful of the creature's behavior, the environment, and your own safety to ensure a smooth and efficient taming experience.