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

Taming a Troodon in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the more challenging tasks in the game due to its unique taming mechanics. Unlike most creatures, the Troodon cannot be tamed through traditional knockout or passive methods. Instead, it requires a specific process involving the sacrifice of other tamed creatures. Here is a detailed guide on how to tame a Troodon, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

The Troodon taming process revolves around feeding it the experience points (XP) of other tamed creatures. When a Troodon kills a tamed creature, it gains a certain amount of taming progress based on the level and type of the sacrificed creature. This means you will need to bring tamed creatures to the Troodon and allow it to kill them. The higher the level of the sacrificed creature, the more taming progress the Troodon will gain. However, this also means you will lose the creature you sacrifice, so it is important to prepare accordingly.

To begin taming a Troodon, you will need to locate one. Troodons are small, nocturnal predators that are often found in forests or near other carnivorous dinosaurs. They are aggressive and will attack you or your tames on sight, so approach with caution. Once you find a Troodon, you will need to prepare the creatures you plan to sacrifice. Low-level creatures like Dodos or Dilophosaurs are commonly used because they are easy to tame and replace. However, higher-level creatures will yield more taming progress, so you can use stronger tames if you have them available.

The next step is to bring the sacrificial creatures to the Troodon. You can lead them on foot or transport them using a flying mount like an Argentavis. Make sure the Troodon is isolated from other predators to avoid interference. Once the sacrificial creature is near the Troodon, allow the Troodon to attack and kill it. After the kill, the Troodon will gain taming progress. Repeat this process until the Troodon is fully tamed. The number of creatures required depends on the level of the Troodon and the level of the creatures you sacrifice.

One important consideration is the Troodon's torpor. Unlike other creatures, the Troodon does not need to be knocked out or kept unconscious during the taming process. This means you do not need to use tranquilizers or narcotics. However, you should still be cautious, as the Troodon can deal significant damage and inflict torpor on you or your tames. Wearing armor and bringing a strong mount for protection is recommended.

A common mistake when taming a Troodon is using creatures that are too low-level, which can result in a long and resource-intensive process. To optimize the taming process, use higher-level creatures or creatures that are easy to mass-produce, such as Dodos or Jerboas. Another mistake is not isolating the Troodon, which can lead to other predators interfering or the Troodon wandering off. Building a small taming pen can help keep the Troodon contained and make the process more efficient.

For advanced players, using creatures with high XP yields, such as baby dinosaurs, can significantly speed up the taming process. Breeding creatures specifically for Troodon taming is a viable strategy, as babies provide more XP when sacrificed. Additionally, using a trap to immobilize the Troodon can make the process safer and more controlled. A simple trap can be built using stone or metal foundations, walls, and a door frame to lure the Troodon inside.

Resource preparation is crucial for taming a Troodon. You will need to tame or breed multiple creatures for sacrifice, so gather the necessary resources for taming, such as berries, meat, or kibble. If you are using low-level creatures, you may also need to gather materials for basic taming tools like bolas or slingshots. For higher-level creatures, prepare stronger weapons and armor to protect yourself during the taming process.

Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, taming a Troodon requires careful planning and coordination. In a tribe, you can divide tasks such as gathering resources, taming sacrificial creatures, and building traps. Solo players will need to manage all aspects of the process themselves, so it is important to prioritize efficiency and safety. Having a flying mount can make transporting creatures easier, and using a trap can reduce the risk of losing tames to other predators.

In summary, taming a Troodon in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique and challenging process that requires sacrificing other tamed creatures. By understanding the mechanics, preparing the right resources, and using effective strategies, you can successfully tame a Troodon and add it to your collection of creatures. Whether you are a solo player or part of a tribe, careful planning and execution are key to mastering this advanced taming method.