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

Taming a creature that requires specific armor in ARK: Survival Evolved involves understanding the unique mechanics of the creature and preparing accordingly. One of the most notable examples of this is the Rock Elemental, which requires you to wear Ghillie Armor to approach it without being detected. This process is different from standard taming methods and requires careful planning and execution.

To begin, you need to gather the necessary resources to craft Ghillie Armor. Ghillie Armor is made from materials such as Fiber, Hide, and Cementing Paste. Cementing Paste can be obtained by combining Chitin or Keratin with Stone in a Mortar and Pestle or by harvesting it from Beavers or their dams. Once you have the required materials, craft the Ghillie Armor at a Smithy or Fabricator. Ensure you have a full set, including the chest piece, gloves, pants, boots, and helmet, as wearing only part of the set may not provide the full stealth effect.

Next, you need to locate a Rock Elemental. These creatures are typically found in mountainous or rocky areas, such as the Volcano or the mountains in the Island map. When you approach a Rock Elemental, it is crucial to wear your Ghillie Armor to remain undetected. If you are spotted, the Rock Elemental will become aggressive and attack, making taming impossible. Once you are close enough, you can begin the taming process.

Taming a Rock Elemental involves using a Cannon or a Catapult to break its rocky exterior. You will need to craft these siege weapons beforehand. A Cannon requires Metal Ingots, Cementing Paste, and Wood, while a Catapult needs Wood, Fiber, and Hide. Place the Cannon or Catapult in a secure location, preferably on a platform or elevated area, to avoid being attacked by the Rock Elemental or other predators. Aim carefully and fire at the Rock Elemental to break its armor. Each hit will reduce its armor, and once the armor is fully broken, the Rock Elemental will collapse and become tameable.

At this point, you need to feed the Rock Elemental Sulfur or Clay to complete the taming process. Sulfur can be found in caves or harvested from rocks in volcanic areas, while Clay is typically found near rivers or in swampy areas. Place the Sulfur or Clay in the last slot of your hotbar and approach the Rock Elemental. Press the appropriate button to feed it, and repeat this process until the taming bar is full. Be mindful of the Rock Elemental's torpor level, as it may wake up if not fed quickly enough.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when taming a Rock Elemental. First, always ensure you have enough resources, including ammunition for your Cannon or Catapult, as running out mid-tame can be disastrous. Second, consider building a taming pen or trap to contain the Rock Elemental during the process. This can prevent it from wandering off or being attacked by other creatures. Third, bring a high-damage weapon or tamed creature to defend yourself in case of an emergency.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Rock Elemental without Ghillie Armor, which will alert it and make taming impossible. Another mistake is not having enough Sulfur or Clay, which can delay the taming process and increase the risk of the Rock Elemental waking up. Additionally, failing to secure the area can result in other predators interfering with the taming process.

Advanced techniques for taming a Rock Elemental include using a Quetzal platform saddle to carry a Cannon, allowing you to attack from the air and avoid ground-based threats. This method requires a tamed Quetzal and a platform saddle, which can be resource-intensive but offers greater safety and mobility. Another optimization is to use a tamed creature with high health and damage, such as a Rex or Spino, to protect you during the taming process.

Resource requirements for taming a Rock Elemental include Ghillie Armor, a Cannon or Catapult, ammunition, and Sulfur or Clay. Preparation is key, so gather all necessary materials before attempting the tame. If you are part of a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks, such as gathering resources, building the taming pen, and defending the area. Solo players should focus on efficiency and safety, ensuring they have all resources and a secure location before starting.

In summary, taming a Rock Elemental in ARK: Survival Evolved requires specific armor, siege weapons, and careful planning. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully tame this powerful creature and add it to your arsenal. Always be prepared, stay vigilant, and use advanced techniques to optimize your taming process.