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

Taming a Procoptodon in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique process that requires careful planning and execution. The Procoptodon, also known as the giant kangaroo, is a versatile creature that excels in mobility and can carry smaller creatures or players in its pouch. It is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the right food to gain its trust. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Procoptodon, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The first step in taming a Procoptodon is to gather the necessary resources. Procoptodons prefer Rare Flowers, Rare Mushrooms, or Plant Species X Seeds as their taming food. Rare Flowers and Rare Mushrooms can be found in swampy areas or harvested from certain plants, while Plant Species X Seeds are obtained from the large plant species X nodes. You will also need a Ghillie Suit or other armor that reduces your visibility, as Procoptodons are skittish and will flee if they detect you. Additionally, bring a few stimulants or stimberries to counteract the torpor effect caused by Rare Mushrooms if you choose to use them.

Once you have the required resources, locate a Procoptodon in the wild. They are commonly found in redwood forests, grasslands, and other open areas. Approach the Procoptodon slowly while crouching to minimize your visibility. If you are wearing a Ghillie Suit, your chances of remaining undetected increase significantly. When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the preferred food (Rare Flowers, Rare Mushrooms, or Plant Species X Seeds) in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly access the food when needed.

To begin the taming process, approach the Procoptodon from behind and feed it the chosen food. After feeding, the Procoptodon will hop away, and you must follow it at a safe distance. Avoid getting too close, as this will scare it and reset the taming progress. Repeat this process of feeding and following until the taming bar is full. The taming efficiency will depend on the quality of the food you use. Rare Flowers and Plant Species X Seeds provide better taming efficiency compared to Rare Mushrooms, so prioritize these if possible.

One common mistake players make is rushing the taming process. Procoptodons are easily startled, and if you move too quickly or get too close, they will flee and reset the taming progress. Patience is key. Another mistake is not bringing enough food. Procoptodons require a significant amount of food to tame, especially at higher levels, so always bring extra to avoid running out mid-tame. Additionally, failing to wear a Ghillie Suit or similar armor can make the taming process much more difficult, as the Procoptodon will detect you more easily.

For advanced players, using a taming pen can streamline the process. Build a small enclosure with walls and a gate, then lure the Procoptodon inside using Rare Flowers or another method. Once inside, close the gate to prevent it from escaping. This allows you to tame the Procoptodon without having to chase it across the map. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the specific level of Procoptodon you are taming. This helps you prepare the right amount of resources and avoid wasting time.

Resource management is crucial when taming a Procoptodon. Ensure you have enough food, armor, and tools before starting the process. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a fast mount like a Raptor or Parasaur to help you keep up with the Procoptodon as it hops away. In a tribe, coordinate with other players to block the Procoptodon's path or assist in feeding it, making the process faster and more efficient.

In specific scenarios, such as taming a high-level Procoptodon in a dangerous area, prioritize safety. Clear the area of predators before starting the taming process, and consider bringing a tamed creature for protection. For example, a Carnotaurus or Sabertooth can help fend off threats while you focus on taming. Additionally, if you are taming in a cold or hot biome, bring appropriate clothing or consumables to maintain your temperature and avoid distractions.

In conclusion, taming a Procoptodon in ARK: Survival Evolved requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. By gathering the right resources, approaching the creature stealthily, and following the step-by-step process, you can successfully tame this useful and unique dinosaur. Avoid common mistakes like rushing or insufficient preparation, and consider advanced techniques like using a taming pen or calculator to optimize the process. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, a tamed Procoptodon can greatly enhance your mobility and resource-gathering capabilities in the game.