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

Taming a Microraptor in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its unique behavior and taming mechanics. Microraptors are small, agile creatures that can be found in forests and jungles across various maps. They are known for their ability to dismount players from their tames and cause chaos during encounters. However, once tamed, they can be valuable allies, especially in PvP scenarios, as they can stun and dismount enemy riders. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Microraptor effectively.

The first step in taming a Microraptor is preparation. Unlike many other creatures, Microraptors cannot be tamed through knockout methods. Instead, they require passive taming, which means you must feed them their preferred food without rendering them unconscious. Microraptors prefer Raw Prime Meat, Cooked Prime Meat, or Superior Kibble. Superior Kibble is the most efficient option, as it significantly reduces the taming time and increases the taming effectiveness. To craft Superior Kibble, you will need a Rex Egg, Sap, Rare Flower, Fiber, Mejoberry, and Cooked Meat Jerky. If you do not have access to Superior Kibble, Raw Prime Meat is the next best option, but it will take longer to tame the Microraptor.

Before approaching a Microraptor, ensure you have the necessary resources and equipment. Wear armor to protect yourself from potential attacks, as Microraptors can be aggressive if provoked. Carry a few stacks of the preferred taming food, as well as some Narcoberries or Narcotics to manage the creature's torpor if needed. Additionally, consider bringing a taming pen or building one nearby to trap the Microraptor, as they are fast and can easily escape if not contained.

To begin the taming process, locate a Microraptor in its natural habitat. Approach it slowly and cautiously, as sudden movements or loud noises can startle it. If the Microraptor becomes aggressive, it will attack and attempt to dismount you if you are riding a tame. To avoid this, dismount and approach on foot. Once you are close enough, open your inventory and place the preferred taming food in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly access the food when needed.

When the Microraptor is calm and not attacking, feed it the taming food by pressing the corresponding hotkey. After feeding, the Microraptor will enter a cooldown period before it can be fed again. During this time, stay close but avoid startling it. Repeat the feeding process until the taming bar is full. Be patient, as passive taming can take some time, especially if you are using Raw Prime Meat instead of Superior Kibble.

One common mistake to avoid is feeding the Microraptor too quickly or startling it during the taming process. If the Microraptor becomes aggressive, it will reset the taming progress, and you will need to start over. To prevent this, maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden movements. Additionally, ensure that no other predators or hostile creatures are nearby, as they can disrupt the taming process or attack the Microraptor.

Advanced techniques for taming a Microraptor include using a taming pen or trap to immobilize it. Build a small enclosure with walls and a door, then lure the Microraptor inside using bait or by leading it into the trap. Once inside, close the door to prevent it from escaping. This method allows you to tame the Microraptor without worrying about it running away or being attacked by other creatures. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the tame, ensuring you are fully prepared.

Resource management is crucial during the taming process. Ensure you have enough food and narcotics to sustain the taming process, especially if you are taming multiple Microraptors or other creatures simultaneously. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect the taming area. Solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency, as they will not have backup in case of an emergency.

In conclusion, taming a Microraptor in ARK: Survival Evolved requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully tame this agile and useful creature. Remember to use Superior Kibble for the best results, build a taming pen to contain the Microraptor, and avoid startling it during the process. With proper planning and resource management, you can add a Microraptor to your team and enhance your survival and combat capabilities in the game.