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

Taming a Leedsichthys in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique challenge due to its size, behavior, and the mechanics involved. The Leedsichthys is a massive, passive-aggressive fish that roams the oceans and is known for attacking rafts and other watercraft. Unlike most creatures in ARK, the Leedsichthys cannot be tamed through traditional knockout or passive methods. Instead, it requires a specific approach involving its natural behavior and the use of certain tools.

The Leedsichthys is not a rideable creature, and its primary purpose is to provide a large amount of raw fish meat and hide when harvested. However, taming it can be a fun and rewarding challenge for players looking to test their skills. The key to taming a Leedsichthys lies in its tendency to attack rafts. Players can exploit this behavior by using a raft as bait and then using a harpoon launcher with a bola net projectile to immobilize it temporarily.

To begin, you will need to prepare the necessary resources and tools. A raft is essential, as it will serve as the bait to lure the Leedsichthys. You will also need a harpoon launcher, which can be crafted at a fabricator using materials such as metal ingots, polymer, and cementing paste. Additionally, you will need bola net projectiles, which are crafted using fiber, hide, and metal ingots. It is also a good idea to bring along some armor, weapons, and medical supplies to protect yourself from other ocean predators or unexpected situations.

Once you have gathered the necessary resources, the next step is to locate a Leedsichthys. These creatures are commonly found in the open ocean, particularly around the edges of the map. They are easily recognizable due to their massive size and distinctive appearance. When you spot a Leedsichthys, approach it cautiously with your raft. The creature will likely begin to attack the raft, which is part of the taming process.

As the Leedsichthys attacks the raft, you will need to position yourself in a way that allows you to aim and fire the harpoon launcher effectively. The goal is to hit the Leedsichthys with a bola net projectile, which will immobilize it for a short period. This immobilization is crucial, as it gives you a window of opportunity to interact with the creature. Once the Leedsichthys is immobilized, you can approach it and feed it raw fish meat or prime fish meat to begin the taming process.

It is important to note that the taming progress for a Leedsichthys is relatively slow, and you will need to repeat the process of immobilizing and feeding it multiple times. Each time you feed the creature, the taming bar will increase slightly. Be prepared to spend a significant amount of time on this process, as the Leedsichthys has a high taming requirement. Additionally, you will need to keep an eye on the creature's torpor level, as it may wake up and resume attacking your raft if the bola net effect wears off.

One common mistake to avoid is underestimating the time and resources required to tame a Leedsichthys. This process can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, so it is important to come prepared with enough materials and patience. Another mistake is failing to protect yourself from other ocean predators, such as Megalodons or Plesiosaurs, which can pose a threat while you are focused on taming the Leedsichthys. Always be aware of your surroundings and have a plan for dealing with unexpected threats.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations that can make the taming process more efficient. One strategy is to use multiple rafts to create a larger target area, increasing the chances of the Leedsichthys attacking and staying in one place. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of raw fish meat or prime fish meat needed, allowing you to gather the necessary resources in advance. Additionally, having a tribe can make the process easier, as multiple players can work together to immobilize and feed the Leedsichthys more quickly.

In conclusion, taming a Leedsichthys in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding endeavor that requires careful preparation, patience, and strategic thinking. By understanding the creature's behavior and using the right tools and techniques, you can successfully tame this massive ocean dweller and add it to your collection of tamed creatures. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, the key to success lies in being well-prepared and staying vigilant throughout the taming process.