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

Taming a high-level Troodon in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging tasks in the game due to its unique taming mechanics. Unlike most creatures, Troodons cannot be tamed by knocking them out and feeding them. Instead, they require a specific method involving sacrificing other tamed creatures to gain their trust. This process is complex and requires careful planning, especially when dealing with high-level Troodons, as they demand more effort and resources.

The first step in taming a Troodon is understanding its mechanics. Troodons are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are more active and aggressive at night. They are also highly dangerous due to their ability to inflict torpor, which can quickly knock you out if you are not careful. To tame a Troodon, you must allow it to kill one of your tamed creatures. The amount of taming progress gained depends on the level of the creature sacrificed. Higher-level sacrifices yield more taming progress, making it essential to use high-level tames when targeting a high-level Troodon.

To begin, you will need to prepare the necessary resources. First, gather a high-level creature to sacrifice. Ideally, this should be a creature with high health and low damage output, such as a Parasaur or Dodo. These creatures are easy to tame and can be bred to produce higher-level offspring, which are more effective for Troodon taming. You will also need a safe area to conduct the taming process. Building a taming pen with walls and a roof can help contain the Troodon and prevent it from escaping or being attacked by other predators. Additionally, bring plenty of narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Troodon unconscious if it becomes aggressive during the process.

Once you have your sacrificial creature and taming pen ready, locate a high-level Troodon. Troodons are commonly found in forests and jungles, especially at night. Use a flying mount like an Argentavis or Pteranodon to scout the area and lure the Troodon into your taming pen. Be cautious, as Troodons are fast and can quickly overwhelm you if you are not prepared. Once the Troodon is inside the pen, close the gate to trap it.

Next, bring your sacrificial creature into the pen. Ensure the creature is passive and does not fight back, as this can reduce the taming effectiveness. Allow the Troodon to attack and kill the creature. After the sacrifice, the Troodon will gain taming progress based on the level of the creature killed. Repeat this process with additional high-level creatures until the Troodon is fully tamed. Keep in mind that high-level Troodons may require multiple sacrifices, so bring enough creatures to complete the process.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when taming a Troodon. First, always prioritize safety. Troodons are dangerous, and their torpor-inducing attacks can quickly incapacitate you. Wear strong armor and bring medical supplies to heal yourself if necessary. Second, avoid using low-level creatures for sacrifices, as they will provide minimal taming progress and waste your time. Third, consider using a trap to immobilize the Troodon during the taming process. This can make it easier to control the situation and prevent the Troodon from escaping or attacking you.

Common mistakes to avoid include using low-level sacrifices, failing to secure the taming area, and underestimating the Troodon's aggression. Additionally, do not attempt to tame a Troodon during the day, as they are less active and may not respond to sacrifices as effectively. Always plan your taming sessions at night for the best results.

Advanced techniques for optimizing Troodon taming include breeding high-level creatures specifically for sacrifices. By breeding creatures like Dodos or Parasaurs, you can produce high-level offspring that provide maximum taming progress. Additionally, using a taming calculator can help you determine the exact number of sacrifices needed for a high-level Troodon, saving time and resources.

Resource requirements for taming a Troodon include high-level sacrificial creatures, narcotics or biotoxin for torpor management, and materials for building a secure taming pen. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and prepare multiple sacrificial creatures. Solo players should focus on breeding high-level creatures in advance to ensure they have enough sacrifices for the taming process.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Troodon in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task. By understanding the unique mechanics, preparing the necessary resources, and following the step-by-step strategies outlined above, you can successfully tame a Troodon and add it to your collection of powerful creatures. Always prioritize safety, use high-level sacrifices, and plan your taming sessions carefully to maximize your chances of success.