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

Taming a creature that requires a specific type of narcotic in ARK: Survival Evolved involves a detailed process that requires preparation, patience, and careful execution. The mechanics of taming such creatures are similar to standard knockout taming but with the added complexity of using specialized narcotics to keep the creature unconscious. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you successfully tame these creatures.

First, you need to identify the creature you want to tame and understand its specific requirements. Some creatures, like the Troodon or the Titanoboa, require Narcotics or Bio Toxin to keep them unconscious during the taming process. Narcotics are crafted from Narcoberries and Spoiled Meat, while Bio Toxin is obtained from killing Cnidaria or harvesting from certain creatures like the Achatina. Once you know the required narcotic, gather the necessary resources in advance. For Narcotics, you will need a Mortar and Pestle or a Chemistry Bench to craft them. For Bio Toxin, you will need to hunt Cnidaria in the ocean or tame an Achatina, which passively produces Bio Toxin over time.

Next, prepare your taming tools. You will need weapons to knock the creature out, such as a Slingshot, Bow with Tranq Arrows, or a Longneck Rifle with Tranquilizer Darts. Tranq Arrows and Darts are more effective for larger or tougher creatures, while a Slingshot may suffice for smaller ones. Additionally, bring plenty of the required narcotic to keep the creature unconscious. Torpor, the stat that determines how close a creature is to waking up, decreases over time, so you must monitor it and administer narcotics as needed.

Once you are ready, locate the creature and approach it carefully. For aggressive creatures, it is best to build a taming pen or use natural terrain to trap them. A taming pen can be constructed using Stone or Metal Foundations, Walls, and Gates. Lure the creature into the pen and close the gate behind it. This prevents the creature from escaping or being attacked by other predators. If you are taming a passive creature, approach slowly and avoid sudden movements to prevent it from fleeing.

Now, begin knocking the creature out. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain and minimize damage. Be cautious not to kill the creature, as excessive damage can reduce its taming effectiveness. Once the creature is unconscious, quickly access its inventory and place the required narcotic inside. This will keep the torpor level stable while you feed it its preferred food. For example, a Troodon prefers Raw Prime Meat or Kibble, while a Titanoboa prefers Eggs. The taming effectiveness, which determines the creature's final stats, decreases if the creature takes damage or wakes up, so prioritize keeping it unconscious.

During the taming process, monitor the creature's torpor and hunger levels. Torpor decreases over time, so you must administer narcotics periodically. Hunger determines how quickly the creature eats the food you provide. If the creature is not eating, it may be because its hunger stat is not low enough. Be patient and wait for it to consume the food. Using Kibble, which is crafted from specific eggs and other ingredients, can significantly speed up the taming process and improve taming effectiveness.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of narcotic, failing to monitor torpor levels, and not preparing enough resources. For example, using Narcotics instead of Bio Toxin on a creature that requires the latter will not work. Additionally, running out of narcotics or food mid-tame can lead to the creature waking up or starving, resulting in a failed tame. Always bring extra resources to account for unexpected delays.

Advanced techniques include using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and narcotics needed for a specific creature. This helps you prepare efficiently and avoid wasting resources. Additionally, using a taming pen with a roof can prevent flying creatures from escaping. For solo players, consider taming creatures that can assist in the process, such as a Parasaur for gathering Narcoberries or a Carnotaurus for hunting Spoiled Meat.

In summary, taming a creature that requires a specific type of narcotic in ARK: Survival Evolved involves careful preparation, monitoring, and execution. Gather the necessary resources, build a secure taming pen, and use the correct tools to knock the creature out. Administer the required narcotic and feed the creature its preferred food while keeping it unconscious. Avoid common mistakes and use advanced techniques to optimize the process. With patience and practice, you can successfully tame even the most challenging creatures in the game.