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

Taming a high-level Tusoteuthis in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging but rewarding tasks in the game. The Tusoteuthis, also known as the giant squid, is a deep-sea creature that can be tamed to provide significant advantages, such as underwater combat prowess and the ability to dismount riders from other tames. However, taming a Tusoteuthis requires careful preparation, precise execution, and a deep understanding of its mechanics.

The Tusoteuthis is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must feed it Black Pearls while avoiding its attacks. Black Pearls are a rare resource found in the ocean, often harvested from Eurypterids, Deathworms, or certain deep-sea creatures like Trilobites and Ammonites. You will need a substantial amount of Black Pearls, so gather as many as possible before attempting the tame. A high-level Tusoteuthis can require over 100 Black Pearls, so preparation is key.

To begin, you will need a strong underwater mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a high-level Megalodon. The Basilosaurus is highly recommended because it has high health, good speed, and immunity to the jellyfish and eels that inhabit the deep ocean. Additionally, the Basilosaurus can heal itself over time, making it ideal for prolonged encounters. Equip your mount with a good saddle to maximize its durability and your survivability.

Locate a Tusoteuthis in the deep ocean. They are commonly found in the open waters of the map, particularly around underwater caves or deep trenches. Once you find one, approach it cautiously. The Tusoteuthis will attack if you get too close, so maintain a safe distance while positioning yourself for the tame. It is essential to stay behind or to the side of the Tusoteuthis to avoid its tentacle grab attack, which can dismount you and leave you vulnerable.

When you are ready, swim close enough to the Tusoteuthis to initiate the feeding prompt. Quickly feed it a Black Pearl and then retreat to a safe distance. The Tusoteuthis will become aggressive after each feeding, so be prepared to evade its attacks. Repeat this process, feeding it one Black Pearl at a time and retreating after each interaction. Patience is crucial, as rushing the process can lead to your mount or yourself being killed.

One common mistake is underestimating the Tusoteuthis's aggression and range. Its tentacle grab can pull you off your mount, leaving you defenseless in the deep ocean. Always keep your mount between you and the Tusoteuthis to minimize this risk. Another mistake is not bringing enough Black Pearls. Running out of Black Pearls mid-tame can force you to abandon the attempt, wasting time and resources. Always bring extra Black Pearls to account for any errors or unexpected events.

Advanced techniques include using a taming pen to make the process safer. While building a pen underwater is challenging, it can be done with careful planning. Use metal foundations and walls to create a large enclosure with an open top. Lure the Tusoteuthis into the pen using a fast mount, then trap it inside. This method allows you to feed the Tusoteuthis without worrying about its attacks, as it will be confined. However, this requires significant resources and preparation, so it is best suited for tribes with access to advanced building materials.

For solo players, the Basilosaurus remains the best option due to its survivability and self-healing. Tribes can coordinate by having one player distract the Tusoteuthis while another feeds it, making the process faster and safer. Communication and teamwork are essential for tribe-based taming attempts.

In summary, taming a high-level Tusoteuthis requires preparation, patience, and precision. Gather plenty of Black Pearls, use a strong underwater mount like the Basilosaurus, and approach the Tusoteuthis carefully. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating its aggression or running out of resources. Advanced techniques, such as building a taming pen, can make the process easier but require significant effort. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, mastering the taming of a Tusoteuthis will give you a powerful ally for underwater exploration and combat.