How do I tame a Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging but rewarding tasks in the game. Rock Drakes are unique creatures found in the Aberration map, known for their ability to climb walls, glide, and turn invisible. They are highly sought after for their versatility in exploration and combat. However, taming a Rock Drake requires careful preparation, as the process is complex and dangerous.

To begin, Rock Drakes cannot be tamed through traditional knockout methods. Instead, they require a unique approach involving stealing and hatching their eggs. Rock Drakes nest in the deepest parts of the Aberration map, specifically in the Radiation Zone. This area is extremely hazardous due to high radiation levels, aggressive creatures, and environmental dangers. Before attempting to tame a Rock Drake, you must prepare thoroughly.

First, you will need a strong set of radiation-resistant armor, such as the Hazard Suit. This armor is crafted using materials like polymer, electronics, and gems, which can be gathered from the Aberration map. Without this armor, you will quickly succumb to radiation damage. Additionally, bring a strong mount like a Karkinos or a Megalosaurus to help navigate the dangerous terrain and fend off hostile creatures.

Next, you will need to locate a Rock Drake nest. These nests are typically found on cliffs or high ledges in the Radiation Zone. Be cautious, as Rock Drakes are highly territorial and will attack if they detect you. Once you find a nest, you must steal an egg. The quality of the egg determines the level of the Rock Drake you will tame, so aim for higher-level eggs if possible. However, stealing an egg will immediately aggro nearby Rock Drakes, so be prepared for a fight or a quick escape.

After obtaining the egg, you must incubate it to hatch the Rock Drake. Rock Drake eggs require a very specific temperature range to incubate properly. The ideal temperature is between -90 and -80 degrees Fahrenheit. You can achieve this by using air conditioners, dimetrodons, or placing the egg in a cold area. Once the egg is placed in the correct environment, it will begin to incubate. Monitor the egg's health and temperature closely, as it can spoil if left unattended.

When the egg hatches, a baby Rock Drake will emerge. At this point, you must feed it to complete the taming process. Baby Rock Drakes require Nameless Venom as their primary food source. Nameless Venom is obtained by killing Nameless creatures, which spawn in the Aberration map when you are alone or in low light. Ensure you have a steady supply of Nameless Venom before the egg hatches, as the baby Rock Drake will starve quickly if not fed.

Once the Rock Drake is fully grown, it will imprint on you, becoming your loyal companion. Imprinting increases the creature's stats and strengthens your bond with it. To maximize the Rock Drake's potential, focus on imprinting tasks such as feeding it its preferred food or taking it on walks.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when taming a Rock Drake. First, always bring a light pet like a Bulbdog or Shinehorn to the Radiation Zone. These creatures provide light and reduce the chance of Nameless spawning, making the area slightly safer. Second, avoid carrying multiple eggs at once, as this will increase the aggression of Rock Drakes in the area. Third, plan your escape route before stealing the egg, as you will need to leave the Radiation Zone quickly to avoid being overwhelmed.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the dangers of the Radiation Zone, failing to prepare enough Nameless Venom, and neglecting to monitor the egg's temperature during incubation. Additionally, attempting to tame a Rock Drake without a strong mount or proper armor can lead to failure or death.

Advanced techniques for taming Rock Drakes include using a climbing pick to access hard-to-reach nests, setting up a temporary base near the Radiation Zone to store resources, and using a Cryopod to transport the baby Rock Drake safely. These strategies can save time and reduce risks during the taming process.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of materials to craft the Hazard Suit, air conditioners, and other necessary items. Gather resources like polymer, electronics, and gems in advance to avoid delays. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks such as gathering resources, defending against hostile creatures, and incubating the egg.

For solo players, taming a Rock Drake is still possible but requires extra caution. Focus on stealth and speed when stealing the egg, and ensure you have a safe location to incubate it. Solo players may also benefit from using taming calculators to determine the exact amount of Nameless Venom needed for the taming process.

In conclusion, taming a Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but achievable task with proper preparation and strategy. By understanding the mechanics, gathering the necessary resources, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame one of the most powerful creatures in the game. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, a Rock Drake will greatly enhance your survival and exploration capabilities in the Aberration map.