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 or Desert Cloth Armor to approach it without being detected. This process is more complex than standard taming methods, as it involves specific preparation and careful execution.

To begin, you must first gather the necessary resources to craft the required armor. For Ghillie Armor, you will need Fiber, Hide, and Cementing Paste. Desert Cloth Armor, on the other hand, requires Fiber, Hide, and Silica Pearls. Both sets of armor are essential for reducing your visibility to the Rock Elemental, as it is highly sensitive to movement and will attack if it detects you. Once you have crafted the armor, equip it before approaching the creature.

The next step is to prepare the taming tools and resources. For the Rock Elemental, you will need a Cannon or a Catapult to deal damage and eventually tame it. Cannons are more effective but require more resources to craft, including Metal Ingots, Cementing Paste, and Gunpowder. Catapults are a cheaper alternative but are less accurate and require more skill to use. Additionally, you will need Cannonballs or Boulders as ammunition. It is also a good idea to bring a few extra resources in case you miss your shots or need to repair your equipment.

When you are ready to tame the Rock Elemental, approach it carefully while wearing the Ghillie or Desert Cloth Armor. The goal is to get close enough to set up your Cannon or Catapult without alerting the creature. Once you are in position, aim for the Rock Elemental's body, as hitting its legs or arms will not count toward taming. Fire your Cannon or Catapult to deal damage, and be prepared to dodge its attacks if it becomes aggressive. The Rock Elemental will eventually become "cracked," indicating that it is ready to be tamed. At this point, you can approach it and feed it Sulfur or Clay to complete the taming process.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when taming a Rock Elemental. First, always approach the creature from behind or the sides, as it is less likely to detect you from these angles. Second, make sure to bring a high-damage weapon or tool to deal with any other predators in the area, as they can disrupt the taming process. Third, consider building a taming pen or trap to contain the Rock Elemental and make the process easier. This can be done using Stone or Metal structures, as the Rock Elemental cannot break through these materials.

Common mistakes to avoid include not wearing the correct armor, which will result in the Rock Elemental detecting and attacking you. Another mistake is using the wrong type of ammunition or not aiming properly, which can waste resources and prolong the taming process. Additionally, failing to monitor the Rock Elemental's health and torpor levels can lead to it dying or waking up before the taming is complete.

Advanced techniques and optimizations include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry and position your Cannon or Catapult, allowing you to attack the Rock Elemental from a safe distance. You can also use a tribe mate to distract the creature while you set up your equipment, making the process faster and more efficient. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of Sulfur or Clay needed, ensuring that you do not waste resources.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial for a successful tame. In addition to the armor and taming tools, you will need a steady supply of Narcotics or Bio Toxin to keep the Rock Elemental unconscious if it wakes up during the process. It is also a good idea to bring extra food and water, as the taming process can take a significant amount of time.

Tribe and solo considerations include the level of coordination and resource sharing. In a tribe, you can divide the tasks among members, such as one person gathering resources while another builds the taming pen. Solo players will need to manage all aspects of the taming process themselves, so careful planning and preparation are essential.

Specific examples and scenarios include taming a Rock Elemental in the Scorched Earth or Extinction maps, where they are more commonly found. In these environments, you will need to account for the harsh weather conditions and additional predators, such as Wyverns or Reapers. By following these detailed steps and strategies, you can successfully tame a Rock Elemental and add a powerful ally to your team in ARK: Survival Evolved.