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

Taming a high-level Zombie Equus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique challenge due to its specific taming mechanics and the dangers of the environment where it spawns. The Zombie Equus is a special variant of the Equus found during the Fear Evolved event, typically in the Ragnarok map's Highlands or other event-specific areas. Unlike regular Equus, the Zombie Equus cannot be tamed through traditional knockout methods. Instead, it requires a passive taming approach, which involves feeding it specific food without aggroing it. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Zombie Equus effectively.

First, you need to prepare the necessary resources. The Zombie Equus prefers Rockarrot as its taming food. Rockarrot can be grown in crop plots using seeds, fertilizer, and water. You will need a significant amount of Rockarrot, especially for a high-level Zombie Equus, as higher levels require more food to tame. Additionally, you should bring a few stacks of Stimberries or Stimulant to counteract the Zombie Equus's torpor-inducing kicks if you accidentally aggro it. Armor, weapons, and a fast mount like a Raptor or Pteranodon are also recommended for safety and mobility.

The Zombie Equus is a passive tame, meaning you must approach it carefully without startling it. Unlike regular Equus, the Zombie Equus is aggressive if provoked, so you need to avoid getting too close or making sudden movements. To begin taming, crouch and slowly approach the Zombie Equus from behind. Make sure you are not carrying any weapons or tools that might scare it. Once you are close enough, open your inventory and place the Rockarrot in its inventory. The Zombie Equus will eat the Rockarrot, and its taming progress will increase.

One of the most important tips is to stay behind the Zombie Equus at all times. If it turns around and sees you, it may become aggressive and attack. If this happens, quickly retreat and use Stimberries or Stimulant to counteract the torpor from its kicks. After the Zombie Equus calms down, you can attempt to approach it again. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full. High-level Zombie Equus will require more Rockarrot and time, so patience is key.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Zombie Equus from the front or sides, which can aggro it. Additionally, carrying weapons or tools can scare it, so make sure to unequip them before attempting to feed it. Another mistake is not bringing enough Rockarrot or Stimberries, which can lead to failed taming attempts or dangerous situations. Always prepare extra resources to account for any mishaps.

Advanced techniques for taming a Zombie Equus include using a taming pen or trap. You can build a simple pen with stone or metal structures to lure the Zombie Equus inside. Once it is trapped, you can safely feed it without worrying about it running away or being attacked by other creatures. This method is especially useful in areas with high predator activity. Another optimization is to use a Ghillie Suit, which reduces your visibility and makes it easier to approach the Zombie Equus without aggroing it.

Resource management is crucial for taming a Zombie Equus. Ensure you have enough Rockarrot, Stimberries, and other supplies before heading out. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect each other during the taming process. Solo players should focus on preparing thoroughly and using traps or taming pens to minimize risks.

In specific scenarios, such as taming in the Highlands of Ragnarok, you may encounter predators like Allosaurus or Carnotaurus. Always scout the area and clear out any threats before attempting to tame the Zombie Equus. If you are taming during the Fear Evolved event, be aware of other event-specific creatures like Zombie Dodos or Dodorex, which can pose additional challenges.

By following these steps and strategies, you can successfully tame a high-level Zombie Equus in ARK: Survival Evolved. Patience, preparation, and careful execution are key to overcoming the unique challenges of taming this special creature. Once tamed, the Zombie Equus can be a valuable asset for transportation, resource gathering, and combat, making the effort well worth it.