How do I tame a creature that requires a specific type of food in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a creature in ARK: Survival Evolved that requires specific food involves understanding the mechanics of the taming process, preparing the right resources, and executing a strategy tailored to the creature's behavior. Here's a detailed guide to help you succeed.

First, identify the creature you want to tame and its preferred food. Some creatures, like the Triceratops, prefer berries, while others, like the Carnotaurus, require raw meat. Certain creatures, such as the Argentavis, have a preference for kibble, which is crafted using specific eggs and other ingredients. Kibble is often the most efficient taming food, as it significantly reduces taming time and increases effectiveness. To prepare for taming, gather the necessary resources. For herbivores, collect a variety of berries, such as Mejoberries, which are commonly preferred. For carnivores, hunt other creatures to obtain raw meat. If kibble is required, gather the necessary eggs, vegetables, and other ingredients to craft it.

Next, decide whether the creature requires knockout taming or passive taming. Knockout taming involves rendering the creature unconscious using tranquilizers, such as tranq arrows or darts, and then feeding it the preferred food while it is unconscious. Passive taming, on the other hand, involves approaching the creature carefully and feeding it without aggression. For knockout taming, prepare weapons like a 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, ensure you have the correct food and approach the creature slowly to avoid startling it.

When taming a creature that requires knockout taming, start by locating the creature and assessing its surroundings. Clear the area of other predators that could interfere with the taming process. Build a taming pen if necessary to trap the creature and prevent it from escaping or being attacked. Use your tranquilizer weapon to shoot the creature until its torpor level is high enough to knock it out. Be careful not to kill the creature by dealing too much damage. Once the creature is unconscious, place the preferred food in its inventory and monitor its torpor level. Use narcotics or biotoxin to keep the creature unconscious as needed. The taming process will progress as the creature consumes the food.

For passive taming, approach the creature slowly and avoid sudden movements. Some creatures, like the Equus, require you to feed them while riding them. Others, like the Otter, can be fed directly from your inventory. Be patient and wait for the creature to accept the food. Repeat the process until the taming bar is full.

Important tips and considerations include preparing enough food and resources before starting the taming process. Some creatures, like the Quetzal, require a large amount of food and time to tame. Use taming calculators to determine the exact amount of food and time needed. Always carry extra supplies, such as narcotics and food, in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Monitor the creature's torpor level and hunger to ensure a successful tame. Avoid using low-quality food, as it will slow down the taming process and reduce effectiveness.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of food, which will not progress the taming bar. Another mistake is not preparing enough resources, leading to an incomplete tame. Avoid attacking the creature too aggressively, as this can kill it or cause it to flee. For passive taming, do not approach the creature too quickly, as this can startle it and reset the taming progress.

Advanced techniques and optimizations include using taming pens to trap creatures and prevent them from escaping. Build the pen using stone or metal structures to ensure durability. Use a flying mount to lure creatures into the pen, especially for large or aggressive creatures like the Rex. For creatures that require kibble, prioritize breeding dinosaurs to obtain the necessary eggs. Use taming effectiveness boosters, such as the Taming Speed multiplier, to reduce taming time and increase effectiveness.

Resource requirements and preparation vary depending on the creature. For herbivores, gather a variety of berries and crops. For carnivores, hunt other creatures to obtain raw meat. For kibble, gather eggs, vegetables, and other ingredients. Prepare narcotics or biotoxin to keep the creature unconscious during knockout taming. Carry extra supplies, such as food and narcotics, to ensure a successful tame.

Tribe and solo considerations include coordinating with tribe members to gather resources and protect the taming area. In solo play, prepare thoroughly and use taming pens to manage the taming process alone. For large creatures, consider enlisting the help of tribe members to assist with the taming process.

Specific examples and scenarios include taming a Rex, which requires knockout taming with raw meat or kibble. Build a taming pen to trap the Rex and use tranq arrows or darts to knock it out. Monitor its torpor level and feed it the preferred food. Another example is taming an Equus, which requires passive taming with carrots or rockarrot. Approach the Equus slowly and feed it while riding it to complete the tame.

By following these steps and strategies, you can successfully tame creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved and build a powerful team of dinosaurs to aid in your survival and exploration.