What is the best way to tame a high-level Ankylosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Ankylosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. The Ankylosaurus is a valuable creature for resource gathering, particularly for metal and flint, making it a priority for many players. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to tame one effectively.

First, understand the mechanics of taming an Ankylosaurus. The Ankylosaurus is a herbivore, so it prefers plant-based food for taming. The best food for taming is kibble made from Dodo eggs, which significantly speeds up the process. If kibble is unavailable, the next best options are vegetables like crops or mejoberries. However, these will take longer and require more resources. The Ankylosaurus must be knocked out before taming, as it cannot be tamed passively. This means youÔÇÖll need to use tranquilizer tools like a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or a crossbow with tranq arrows. Higher-level Ankylosaurs have more health and torpor, so youÔÇÖll need to be prepared with enough resources to keep them unconscious while feeding them.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. YouÔÇÖll need a weapon for knocking out the Ankylosaurus, such as a crossbow with tranq arrows or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts. YouÔÇÖll also need narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Ankylosaurus unconscious during the taming process. For food, prepare kibble, vegetables, or mejoberries. Additionally, bring materials to build a taming pen, such as stone or metal foundations, walls, and gates. This will help contain the Ankylosaurus and prevent it from wandering off or being attacked by predators.

Next, locate a high-level Ankylosaurus. These creatures are commonly found in mountainous or rocky areas, such as the Volcano, the Redwoods, or the mountains in the center of The Island map. Once youÔÇÖve found one, approach carefully. Ankylosaurs are not overly aggressive but will attack if provoked. Use your weapon to shoot tranq arrows or darts at the Ankylosaurus. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain. Be mindful of its health, as you donÔÇÖt want to kill it. If it starts to flee, chase it while continuing to shoot tranq arrows. Once it is unconscious, quickly build a taming pen around it if you havenÔÇÖt already. This will protect it from other predators and prevent it from waking up and wandering off.

After the Ankylosaurus is unconscious, place the food in its inventory. If youÔÇÖre using kibble, it will tame much faster than mejoberries or vegetables. Monitor its torpor level and add narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious. The torpor drain rate is relatively slow for Ankylosaurs, but itÔÇÖs still important to keep an eye on it, especially for high-level creatures. While waiting, you can gather additional resources or prepare for the next steps in your survival journey.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, always bring extra resources, such as tranq arrows, narcotics, and food, in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Second, avoid taming in dangerous areas where predators like Carnotaurus or Raptors might interfere. Third, use a taming calculator to estimate the amount of food and time required for the specific level of Ankylosaurus youÔÇÖre taming. This will help you plan accordingly and avoid running out of resources.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the amount of resources needed, taming in unsafe areas, and failing to monitor the AnkylosaurusÔÇÖs torpor level. Additionally, avoid using weapons that deal too much damage, as this could kill the Ankylosaurus before it is knocked out. Always prioritize its health and torpor balance.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming pen with a ramp or trapdoor to lure the Ankylosaurus inside. This makes it easier to knock out and tame without it escaping. You can also use a taming effectiveness booster, such as a soothing balm, to speed up the process and improve the taming effectiveness, resulting in a higher-level tamed Ankylosaurus.

Resource requirements include tranq arrows or darts, narcotics or biotoxin, and the preferred taming food. For a high-level Ankylosaurus, you may need 50-100 tranq arrows, 100-200 narcotics, and 20-30 kibble or a large stack of mejoberries. Preparation is key, so gather these resources in advance.

For tribe or solo considerations, taming an Ankylosaurus is manageable solo, but having a tribe can make the process easier. Tribe members can help gather resources, build the taming pen, and protect the area from predators. Solo players should focus on preparation and safety, ensuring they have enough resources and a secure location for taming.

In specific scenarios, such as taming on PvP servers, be cautious of other players who might interfere. Build the taming pen in a hidden or secure location, and consider having tribe members guard the area. On PvE servers, focus on protecting the Ankylosaurus from wild predators and ensuring you have enough time to complete the taming process.

By following these steps and strategies, you can successfully tame a high-level Ankylosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved. This powerful creature will be a valuable asset for resource gathering and survival, helping you progress further in the game.