How do I build a taming pen for a Spino in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Building a taming pen for a Spino in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial step to ensure a safe and efficient taming process. Spinosaurs are large, aggressive carnivores that can deal significant damage, so having a secure enclosure is essential to prevent them from escaping or attacking you during the taming process. Below is a detailed guide on how to build a taming pen for a Spino, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. A taming pen is a structure designed to trap a dinosaur so you can safely tame it without it running away or attacking you. For a Spino, you need a pen that is large enough to accommodate its size but secure enough to prevent it from breaking out. Spinosaurs are fast on land and even faster in water, so you need to account for their mobility. The pen should be made of strong materials like stone or metal, as Spinosaurs can easily destroy wood structures. The goal is to lure the Spino into the pen, trap it, and then knock it out using tranquilizers or other methods.

To build a taming pen, start by gathering the necessary resources. You will need a significant amount of stone, wood, and thatch to construct the walls, ramps, and gates. If you have access to metal, itÔÇÖs even better, as it provides more durability. You will also need a foundation to place the walls on, so gather enough stone or wood for that as well. Additionally, prepare your taming tools, such as a crossbow with tranq arrows or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts, along with plenty of narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Spino unconscious during the taming process.

The next step is to choose a location for your taming pen. Look for a flat area near where Spinosaurs spawn, such as near rivers or beaches. Make sure the area is clear of other predators that could interfere with the taming process. Once youÔÇÖve found a suitable spot, place a foundation and build walls around it. The pen should be at least 4 walls high to prevent the Spino from jumping out. Leave one side open for the entrance, where you will place a large gate or a ramp to lure the Spino inside.

To lure the Spino into the pen, you can use a flying mount like an Argentavis or a Pteranodon. Fly close to the Spino to aggro it, then lead it into the pen. Once the Spino is inside, quickly close the gate or remove the ramp to trap it. Be careful not to get too close, as the Spino can deal significant damage with its attacks. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, this step can be tricky, so practice your flying and timing to ensure success.

Once the Spino is trapped, you can begin the taming process. Use your crossbow or rifle to shoot tranq arrows or darts at the Spino until it falls unconscious. Keep an eye on its torpor level and administer narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it sedated. While the Spino is unconscious, feed it its preferred food, such as raw prime meat or kibble, to increase its taming effectiveness. Raw prime meat is easier to obtain but takes longer, while kibble speeds up the process but requires more preparation.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, always carry extra narcotics or biotoxin, as Spinosaurs have high torpor and can wake up quickly if not properly sedated. Second, make sure your taming pen is secure and free of gaps, as Spinosaurs can sometimes glitch through walls if the structure isnÔÇÖt solid. Third, avoid taming near water, as Spinosaurs are faster and more dangerous in aquatic environments. Finally, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the tame.

Common mistakes to avoid include using weak materials like wood for the pen, as Spinosaurs can easily break through. Another mistake is not having enough narcotics or biotoxin, which can lead to the Spino waking up and ruining the tame. Additionally, failing to clear the area of other predators can result in the Spino being attacked or distracted during the taming process.

For advanced techniques, you can optimize your taming pen by adding a roof or ceiling to prevent flying creatures from interfering. You can also use bear traps or chain bolas to temporarily immobilize the Spino while you trap it. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to lure the Spino into the pen more efficiently. One player can aggro the Spino while another closes the gate or removes the ramp.

In conclusion, building a taming pen for a Spino requires careful planning, resource gathering, and execution. By following the steps outlined above and keeping the tips and considerations in mind, you can successfully tame a Spino and add a powerful ally to your team. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, mastering the art of taming pens will greatly enhance your survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.