How do I tame a Roll Rat in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Roll Rat in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique process that requires careful planning and execution. Roll Rats are large, burrowing creatures found in the Aberration map, and they are known for their ability to dig through the ground and collect valuable resources like mushrooms and gems. Taming a Roll Rat involves a passive taming method, which means you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must gain its trust by feeding it the right food while avoiding actions that might scare it away. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Roll Rat, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The first step in taming a Roll Rat is to gather the necessary resources. Roll Rats prefer Plant Species Z Seed as their taming food. These seeds can be harvested from Plant Species Z, which are found in the fertile regions of the Aberration map. You will need a decent amount of these seeds, as the taming process can take some time. Additionally, you should prepare some armor and weapons to protect yourself from other predators in the area, as Roll Rats are often found in dangerous environments. A crossbow with grappling hooks can also be useful for navigating the terrain and avoiding threats.

Once you have the required resources, the next step is to locate a Roll Rat. Roll Rats are commonly found in the fertile biome of Aberration, often near rivers or in areas with dense vegetation. When you spot a Roll Rat, approach it slowly and cautiously. Roll Rats are skittish creatures, and if you move too quickly or make sudden movements, they will burrow underground and disappear. To avoid this, crouch and move slowly toward the Roll Rat. Keep your distance until you are ready to feed it.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and drag the Plant Species Z Seed into the Roll Rat's inventory. The Roll Rat will eat the seed, and its taming progress will increase slightly. However, after eating, the Roll Rat will become startled and burrow underground. This is a key mechanic of taming a Roll Rat. You must wait for it to resurface, which can take a few moments. When it reappears, repeat the process by feeding it another seed. This cycle of feeding and waiting will continue until the Roll Rat is fully tamed.

One important tip is to stay patient and avoid rushing the process. Roll Rats can take a significant amount of time to tame, especially if you are working alone. It is also crucial to keep an eye on your surroundings, as other predators or hostile creatures may attack you or the Roll Rat during the taming process. Building a small taming pen or using natural terrain to block off the area can help protect you and the Roll Rat from threats.

A common mistake players make is trying to chase the Roll Rat after it burrows underground. This is not effective, as the Roll Rat will only resurface in a different location. Instead, stay in the general area and wait for it to reappear. Another mistake is using the wrong food. Roll Rats will only accept Plant Species Z Seed for taming, so make sure you have enough before starting the process.

For advanced players, using a taming calculator can help optimize the process by determining the exact number of seeds required based on the Roll Rat's level. Higher-level Roll Rats will require more seeds and take longer to tame. Additionally, working with a tribe can make the process easier, as tribe members can help gather resources, protect the area, and assist with feeding the Roll Rat.

In summary, taming a Roll Rat in ARK: Survival Evolved involves a passive taming method that requires patience and preparation. Gather Plant Species Z Seeds, approach the Roll Rat slowly, and feed it seeds while avoiding actions that scare it away. Stay vigilant for threats, and consider using a taming pen or working with a tribe for added efficiency. By following these steps and tips, you can successfully tame a Roll Rat and add a valuable resource-gathering companion to your team.