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

Taming a creature that requires specific bait in ARK: Survival Evolved involves understanding the unique mechanics of the creature you are trying to tame. Some creatures, like the Kairuku, require fish meat, while others, like the Achatina, prefer sweet vegetable cake. The process can vary depending on whether the creature is tamed passively or through knockout methods. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame such creatures.

First, identify the creature you want to tame and research its preferred bait. For example, the Karkinos, a giant crab found in the Aberration map, requires spoiled meat or raw meat. Once you know the bait, gather the necessary resources. For spoiled meat, simply let raw meat spoil in your inventory. For other baits like sweet vegetable cake, you will need to craft it using ingredients such as sap, honey, and crops. Preparation is key, so ensure you have enough bait and any additional resources like narcotics or tranquilizers if the creature requires knockout taming.

Next, locate the creature in its natural habitat. Some creatures, like the Achatina, are passive and can be tamed by simply placing the bait in the last slot of your hotbar and approaching them slowly. Others, like the Karkinos, may require you to knock them out first. For knockout taming, use weapons like a crossbow with tranq arrows or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain and minimize damage. Once the creature is unconscious, place the bait in its inventory and monitor its torpor level. Use narcotics or narcoberries to keep it sedated if necessary.

For passive taming, approach the creature cautiously. Some creatures, like the Achatina, will not aggro if you move slowly and avoid sudden movements. Place the bait in the last slot of your hotbar and feed it to the creature when prompted. Be patient, as passive taming can take time, especially for higher-level creatures. Keep an eye on your surroundings to avoid attracting other predators that could disrupt the taming process.

Important tips include building a taming pen to secure the creature and prevent it from escaping or being attacked by other predators. For example, you can use stone or metal structures to create a pen with a ramp to lure the creature inside. This is particularly useful for aggressive creatures like the Karkinos. Additionally, always carry extra bait and resources in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Using taming calculators or guides can help you determine the exact amount of bait and time required for each creature.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of bait, which will not progress the taming process. For example, feeding a Karkinos anything other than spoiled meat or raw meat will not work. Another mistake is not monitoring the creature's torpor level, which can lead to it waking up and potentially attacking you. Always have narcotics or narcoberries on hand to keep the creature sedated. Additionally, avoid taming in dangerous areas where other predators or hostile players could interfere.

Advanced techniques include using taming efficiency multipliers, which can be adjusted in single-player or private server settings to speed up the taming process. You can also use taming pens with traps to make the process safer and more efficient. For example, a bear trap can immobilize a creature long enough for you to knock it out or feed it bait. Another advanced technique is using taming calculators to plan your taming strategy, ensuring you have enough resources and time to complete the process.

Resource requirements and preparation vary depending on the creature. For example, taming a Karkinos requires spoiled meat or raw meat, while taming an Achatina requires sweet vegetable cake. Always gather extra resources to account for any mistakes or unexpected delays. For knockout taming, ensure you have enough tranq arrows or darts, as well as narcotics or narcoberries to keep the creature sedated. For passive taming, ensure you have enough bait and a safe environment to avoid interruptions.

Tribe and solo considerations include coordinating with your tribe to gather resources and protect the taming area. In a tribe, you can assign roles, such as one person gathering bait while another builds a taming pen. Solo players should focus on preparation and safety, ensuring they have all necessary resources and a secure taming area before starting the process. Both tribe and solo players should be aware of their surroundings and ready to defend against predators or hostile players.

Specific examples and scenarios include taming a Karkinos in the Aberration map. First, gather spoiled meat or raw meat and build a taming pen with stone or metal structures. Lure the Karkinos into the pen using a mount or by leading it with bait. Once inside, knock it out using tranq arrows or darts and place the spoiled meat or raw meat in its inventory. Monitor its torpor level and use narcotics or narcoberries to keep it sedated. Another example is taming an Achatina, which requires sweet vegetable cake. Approach the Achatina slowly and feed it the cake when prompted. Be patient and avoid sudden movements to prevent it from becoming aggressive.

By following these detailed steps and strategies, you can successfully tame creatures that require specific bait in ARK: Survival Evolved. Preparation, patience, and attention to detail are key to mastering the taming mechanics and building a powerful team of tamed creatures to enhance your survival and progress in the game.