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

Taming a Lystrosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly taming processes in the game. The Lystrosaurus is a small, passive herbivore that can be found in many regions across the maps, often near beaches or in grassy areas. It is a valuable creature to tame early in the game because it provides an experience boost to nearby tamed creatures and players, making it a great companion for leveling up your other dinosaurs or yourself. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Lystrosaurus, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The Lystrosaurus is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out or use any tranquilizers. Instead, you simply approach it and feed it its preferred food. The Lystrosaurus prefers berries, with Mejoberries being the most effective option. However, it will also accept other types of berries, such as Amarberries or Azulberries, though these will take longer to tame. Kibble made from Dodo eggs is the most efficient food for taming a Lystrosaurus, significantly reducing the time required. If you have access to kibble, it is highly recommended to use it.

To begin taming a Lystrosaurus, you will need to gather the necessary resources. If you are using berries, collect a stack of at least 50 to ensure you have enough. If you are using kibble, prepare at least 5 to 10 pieces, depending on the level of the Lystrosaurus. You will also want to have a few pieces of armor or clothing to protect yourself from other predators in the area, as well as a weapon in case you need to defend yourself. A bola can also be useful to immobilize any nearby threats.

Once you have your resources ready, locate a Lystrosaurus. They are small and often travel in groups, so you should have no trouble finding one. Approach the Lystrosaurus slowly and crouch to avoid startling it. If you move too quickly or make sudden movements, it may run away. When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the food (berries or kibble) in the last slot of your hotbar. Then, interact with the Lystrosaurus by pressing the appropriate button (E on PC, Y on Xbox, or Triangle on PlayStation) to feed it. After feeding, wait a few seconds for the taming bar to increase, then repeat the process until the Lystrosaurus is fully tamed.

One important consideration is the level of the Lystrosaurus. Higher-level Lystrosauruses will require more food and take longer to tame. If you are taming a high-level Lystrosaurus, make sure you have enough food and time to complete the process. Additionally, be aware of your surroundings. Lystrosauruses are often found in areas with other predators, such as Raptors or Dilophosaurs, which can interrupt your taming process. Clear the area of threats before starting, or build a small taming pen to keep the Lystrosaurus safe.

A common mistake players make is not crouching when approaching the Lystrosaurus, causing it to flee. Always crouch and move slowly to avoid scaring it. Another mistake is not bringing enough food. If you run out of berries or kibble during the taming process, the Lystrosaurus may lose taming progress, so always bring extra. Additionally, players sometimes forget to monitor their surroundings, leading to interruptions from other creatures. Always stay alert and ready to defend yourself or your tame.

For advanced players, using a taming pen can make the process even easier. Build a small enclosure with walls and a door, then lure the Lystrosaurus inside using a bola or by leading it in. Once inside, close the door to prevent it from escaping or being attacked. This method is especially useful in dangerous areas or when taming multiple creatures at once. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the specific level of Lystrosaurus you are taming. This can help you plan your resources more efficiently.

In terms of tribe or solo considerations, taming a Lystrosaurus is straightforward and does not require much assistance. However, having a tribe member watch your back while you tame can be helpful in dangerous areas. Solo players should focus on preparing adequately and staying vigilant. Once tamed, the Lystrosaurus can be a great asset for both solo players and tribes, as its experience boost benefits everyone nearby.

In summary, taming a Lystrosaurus is a simple and rewarding process. Gather the necessary food, approach the creature slowly while crouching, and feed it until it is tamed. Be mindful of your surroundings, bring extra food, and consider using a taming pen for added safety. With these strategies, you can easily add a Lystrosaurus to your collection and enjoy its experience-boosting benefits.