How do I tame a Thylacoleo in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Thylacoleo in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding process. The Thylacoleo, also known as the "marsupial lion," is a powerful creature that excels in both combat and mobility, making it a valuable addition to any survivor's arsenal. To tame a Thylacoleo, you will need to follow a specific set of steps, prepare the right resources, and be cautious of its aggressive nature. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame this creature.

The first step in taming a Thylacoleo is locating one. Thylacoleos are typically found in the redwood forests of various ARK maps, such as The Island, Ragnarok, and Valguero. They often cling to the sides of redwood trees, waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey. When you spot one, approach carefully, as they are highly aggressive and will leap at you if provoked. It is recommended to use a flying mount, such as an Argentavis or Pteranodon, to scout and locate a Thylacoleo from a safe distance.

Once you have located a Thylacoleo, the next step is to knock it out. Thylacoleos are strong and fast, so you will need to use ranged weapons to incapacitate them. The most effective tools for this are a crossbow with tranq arrows or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain, but be prepared for the Thylacoleo to leap at you if it gets too close. To avoid being caught off guard, consider building a taming pen or using natural terrain to trap the Thylacoleo. For example, you can lure it into a narrow area or use large rocks to block its movement.

After the Thylacoleo is unconscious, you will need to feed it its preferred food to begin the taming process. Thylacoleos are carnivores, so they prefer raw meat, cooked meat, or kibble. The most efficient option is Extraordinary Kibble, which significantly speeds up the taming process. However, if you do not have access to kibble, raw prime meat or mutton can also be used, though the taming process will take longer. Make sure to have plenty of narcotics or narcoberries on hand to keep the Thylacoleo unconscious, as its torpor will drop over time.

While the Thylacoleo is taming, it is important to protect it from other predators. Thylacoleos are often found in dangerous areas, so you may need to clear the surrounding area of threats before starting the taming process. Additionally, consider building a temporary shelter or using a taming pen to keep the Thylacoleo safe from wandering creatures. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to guard the area and assist with the taming process.

One common mistake to avoid is underestimating the Thylacoleo's aggression. Even when unconscious, the area around a Thylacoleo can be dangerous due to other predators or hostile players. Always be prepared for unexpected attacks and have a plan to defend yourself and the Thylacoleo. Another mistake is not bringing enough resources, such as narcotics or food, which can lead to a failed tame. Use a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of resources needed based on the Thylacoleo's level.

For advanced players, there are several optimizations you can use to improve the taming process. For example, using a taming pen with a roof can prevent the Thylacoleo from leaping out and escaping. Additionally, using a high-damage weapon to knock out the Thylacoleo quickly can reduce the risk of it attacking you or being interrupted by other creatures. If you are playing solo, consider using a trap to immobilize the Thylacoleo before attempting to knock it out. This can make the process much safer and more manageable.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of narcotics or narcoberries to keep the Thylacoleo unconscious, especially for higher-level creatures. You will also need a steady supply of its preferred food, such as raw prime meat or kibble. If you are using kibble, make sure to prepare it in advance by gathering the necessary eggs and resources. For solo players, it is especially important to plan ahead and gather all the required materials before attempting to tame a Thylacoleo.

In conclusion, taming a Thylacoleo in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and quick reflexes. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully tame this powerful creature and add it to your team. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, the Thylacoleo's strength and mobility make it a valuable asset for exploration, combat, and resource gathering. With the right approach and resources, you can master the art of taming and unlock the full potential of the Thylacoleo in your ARK adventures.