How do I tame a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a relatively straightforward process compared to other creatures, but it still requires careful preparation and execution. The Ichthyosaurus, often referred to as an "Ichthy," is a small, dolphin-like marine creature that is passive and non-aggressive. It is one of the easiest creatures to tame in the game, making it an excellent choice for beginners or players looking to expand their aquatic capabilities. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Ichthyosaurus, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

The Ichthyosaurus is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the appropriate food. The preferred food for taming an Ichthyosaurus is Regular Kibble, which is the most effective and speeds up the taming process. However, if you do not have Regular Kibble, you can use Raw Mutton, Cooked Lamb Chop, or Raw Prime Fish Meat as alternatives. These options will still work but will take longer to complete the taming process.

To begin, you will need to gather the necessary resources. If you plan to use Regular Kibble, you will need to prepare it in advance. Regular Kibble is made from Dodo Eggs, Cooked Meat, Mejoberries, Fiber, and Waterskins or Water Jars. If you are using Raw Mutton or Raw Prime Fish Meat, you will need to hunt Ovis or fish for Coelacanths and Sabertooth Salmon, respectively. Additionally, you should bring a few pieces of armor, such as a Scuba Tank or Flippers, to help you move efficiently underwater. A Crossbow or Harpoon Launcher with Grappling Hooks can also be useful for staying close to the Ichthyosaurus during the taming process.

Once you have gathered the necessary resources, head to the ocean or any body of water where Ichthyosaurs spawn. They are commonly found in shallow waters near the coastlines. When you spot a high-level Ichthyosaurus, approach it slowly and carefully. Avoid sudden movements or getting too close too quickly, as this can scare it away. Ichthyosaurs are generally docile, but they will swim away if they feel threatened.

To start the taming process, swim close enough to the Ichthyosaurus to interact with it. Open your inventory and place the preferred food (Regular Kibble, Raw Mutton, etc.) in the last slot of your hotbar. Then, press the corresponding key to feed the Ichthyosaurus. After feeding it, you will need to wait for a short period before you can feed it again. During this time, stay close to the Ichthyosaurus but avoid bumping into it or making sudden movements. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full.

One important tip is to use a taming pen or trap to make the process easier. While Ichthyosaurs are not aggressive, they can be difficult to keep up with in open water. You can build a simple underwater pen using Stone or Metal Foundations, Walls, and a Gate. Lure the Ichthyosaurus into the pen by swimming close to it, then quickly close the gate behind it. This will prevent it from swimming away and make the taming process more manageable.

Another consideration is the use of taming multipliers. If you are playing on a server with increased taming rates, the process will be much faster. However, on official servers or with default settings, taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus can take some time, especially if you are not using Regular Kibble. Be patient and ensure you have enough food and resources to complete the tame.

Common mistakes to avoid include scaring the Ichthyosaurus by moving too quickly or aggressively, running out of food before the taming process is complete, and not having the necessary tools to stay underwater for extended periods. Always double-check your inventory before heading out to tame an Ichthyosaurus to ensure you have everything you need.

Advanced techniques for taming an Ichthyosaurus include using a Taming Calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the tame. This can help you plan your resources more efficiently. Additionally, if you are playing in a tribe, you can coordinate with other members to gather resources or build a taming pen, making the process faster and easier.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a simple but rewarding process. By preparing the right resources, approaching the creature carefully, and using a taming pen if necessary, you can successfully tame an Ichthyosaurus to aid in your underwater exploration and resource gathering. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the Ichthyosaurus is a valuable addition to your team of tamed creatures.