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

Taming creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved that require specific weapons, such as tranquilizer darts or arrows, involves a combination of preparation, strategy, and careful execution. These creatures typically need to be knocked out before they can be tamed, and the process can be challenging, especially for larger or more aggressive dinosaurs. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame these creatures.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of knockout taming. When a creature is hit with a tranquilizer weapon, such as a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts, it builds up torpor. Torpor is a stat that represents the creature's unconsciousness level. Once the torpor reaches a certain threshold, the creature will fall unconscious, allowing you to begin the taming process. However, torpor decreases over time, so you must monitor it and use narcotics or narcoberries to keep the creature unconscious while you feed it the appropriate food.

To start, gather the necessary resources. For tranquilizer weapons, you will need materials like stone, wood, fiber, and flint for a slingshot or bow. For more advanced weapons like the longneck rifle, you will need metal ingots, polymer, and gunpowder. Tranquilizer arrows or darts require narcotics, which are crafted from narcoberries and spoiled meat. Additionally, prepare the food the creature prefers. Herbivores typically like berries or crops, while carnivores prefer raw or cooked meat. Some creatures have specific preferences, such as kibble, which is made from eggs and other ingredients and significantly speeds up the taming process.

Next, choose a safe location for taming. Building a taming pen can be very helpful, especially for larger or more dangerous creatures. A taming pen is a structure made of stone or metal that traps the creature, preventing it from escaping or being attacked by other predators. Make sure the pen has a gate or ramp system to lure the creature inside. Once the creature is trapped, you can safely knock it out without worrying about it running away or causing harm.

When you are ready to begin taming, approach the creature carefully. Use your tranquilizer weapon to hit it from a safe distance. Aim for the head if possible, as headshots often deal more torpor. Be mindful of the creature's health, as too much damage can kill it before it falls unconscious. After each shot, wait a few seconds for the torpor to build up. Some creatures, like the Triceratops or Stegosaurus, have high torpor resistance, so you may need to land multiple shots.

Once the creature is unconscious, quickly access its inventory and place the preferred food inside. Monitor its torpor level and use narcotics or narcoberries to keep it unconscious. The taming effectiveness, which determines the creature's stats after taming, decreases if it takes damage or wakes up prematurely. To maximize effectiveness, avoid letting the creature take damage and keep it unconscious throughout the process.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of food, not preparing enough narcotics, or failing to secure the area. Always double-check the creature's preferred food and have extra narcotics on hand. Additionally, be cautious of other predators or players who might interfere with the taming process. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure a smooth taming experience. One player can focus on keeping the creature unconscious while another gathers resources or defends the area.

Advanced techniques include using taming calculators or guides to determine the exact amount of food and time required for each creature. These tools can help you optimize the taming process and ensure you have enough resources. Additionally, consider using taming effectiveness boosters, such as kibble or taming-affecting consumables, to speed up the process and improve the creature's stats after taming.

In summary, taming creatures that require specific weapons in ARK: Survival Evolved involves careful preparation, strategic planning, and precise execution. By understanding the mechanics, gathering the necessary resources, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame even the most challenging creatures. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, mastering these techniques will greatly enhance your survival and progression in the game.