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

Taming a high-level Stegosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. The Stegosaurus is a large herbivore known for its versatility in gathering resources like berries, thatch, and wood, as well as its ability to carry heavy loads. Taming one can significantly boost your resource-gathering efficiency and provide a sturdy mount for exploration. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Stegosaurus effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Stegosaurus taming is a knockout taming process, meaning you need to render the creature unconscious before feeding it its preferred food. The Stegosaurus is a herbivore, so it prefers berries or crops, with kibble being the most efficient option for faster taming. Its torpor (unconsciousness meter) depletes slowly, but it has a high health pool, so youÔÇÖll need to use strong tranquilizing tools to knock it out without killing it. Once unconscious, youÔÇÖll need to feed it the appropriate food while keeping its torpor high enough to prevent it from waking up.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. YouÔÇÖll need a ranged weapon like a crossbow or longneck rifle, along with tranquilizer arrows or darts. Tranq darts are more effective and cause less damage, making them ideal for high-level creatures. YouÔÇÖll also need narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Stegosaurus unconscious. For food, prepare kibble if possible, as it significantly reduces taming time. If kibble isnÔÇÖt available, use mejoberries, which are the next best option. Additionally, bring armor, medical brews, and a taming pen to make the process safer and more efficient.

Next, locate a high-level Stegosaurus. These creatures are commonly found in forests and open plains. Once youÔÇÖve found one, assess the area for potential threats like carnivores or other players. Clear the area of dangers to ensure a smooth taming process. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider building a taming pen using stone or metal structures. A taming pen is a secure enclosure with a ramp or gate that allows you to lure the Stegosaurus inside and trap it, preventing it from escaping or being attacked.

To knock out the Stegosaurus, start by shooting it with tranquilizer arrows or darts. Aim for the head or body for maximum torpor gain. Be cautious not to deal too much damage, as this could kill the creature. After each shot, wait a few seconds for the torpor to rise before firing again. Once the Stegosaurus is unconscious, quickly place the taming pen around it if you havenÔÇÖt already. This step is crucial for protecting the creature from predators or other players during the taming process.

Now, feed the Stegosaurus its preferred food. If you have kibble, prioritize using it, as it will reduce the taming time significantly. If not, use mejoberries. Keep an eye on the creatureÔÇÖs torpor level and administer narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious. The torpor drain rate is relatively slow for Stegosaurus, but itÔÇÖs still important to monitor it closely. Use a taming calculator to estimate the amount of food and narcotics required based on the creatureÔÇÖs level.

While taming, consider the environment and your safety. If youÔÇÖre in a PvP server, be aware of other players who might try to interfere. In PvE, focus on protecting the Stegosaurus from wild predators. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and guard the area. Solo players should prioritize building a secure taming pen and staying vigilant.

Common mistakes to avoid include using low-tier weapons like slingshots, which can take too long and risk killing the Stegosaurus. Another mistake is not preparing enough narcotics or food, which can lead to the creature waking up prematurely. Additionally, failing to secure the area or build a taming pen can result in the Stegosaurus being attacked or escaping.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming trap with a large bear trap to immobilize the Stegosaurus temporarily, giving you more time to knock it out. You can also use a taming calculator to optimize the amount of food and narcotics needed, reducing waste and saving time. If youÔÇÖre taming multiple creatures, bring a preserving bin or refrigerator to store extra food and narcotics.

In summary, taming a high-level Stegosaurus requires preparation, patience, and attention to detail. Gather the necessary resources, build a secure taming pen, and use effective tranquilizing tools to knock it out. Feed it kibble or mejoberries while monitoring its torpor, and protect it from threats during the process. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, youÔÇÖll successfully tame a high-level Stegosaurus to aid in your survival and resource gathering in ARK: Survival Evolved.