What is the best way to tame a high-level Triceratops in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Triceratops in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. The Triceratops, or Trike, is a versatile herbivore that excels in gathering resources like berries and thatch, making it a valuable addition to any survivor's arsenal. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Trike effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

To begin, you need to understand the taming mechanics for a Triceratops. Trikes are knockout tames, meaning you must render them unconscious before feeding them their preferred food. The most effective food for taming a Trike is Kibble, specifically Regular Kibble, which is made from Dodo Eggs. If Kibble is unavailable, the next best options are Crops like Mejoberries or Vegetables. However, Kibble will significantly speed up the taming process and improve the taming effectiveness, resulting in a stronger Trike with better stats.

Before attempting to tame a high-level Trike, gather the necessary resources. You will need a ranged weapon like a Bow or Crossbow, Tranquilizer Arrows, and Narcotics or Narcoberries to keep the Trike unconscious. Additionally, prepare a safe area for taming, such as a taming pen or a secluded spot away from predators. Building a taming pen with stone or wood structures can help contain the Trike and prevent it from wandering off or being attacked by other creatures.

Once you are prepared, locate a high-level Trike. High-level Trikes are typically found in open areas like grasslands or near forests. Approach the Trike cautiously, as it will become aggressive if you get too close. Use your ranged weapon to shoot Tranquilizer Arrows at the Trike's head or body. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain, but be careful not to kill the Trike, as its health will drop with each shot. Monitor the Trike's torpor level and health using the HUD or a spyglass. If the Trike's health drops too low, stop shooting and wait for it to recover slightly before continuing.

After the Trike is unconscious, place the preferred food in its inventory. If using Kibble, place it first, followed by Mejoberries or Vegetables as a backup. Keep an eye on the Trike's torpor level, as it will decrease over time. Use Narcotics or Narcoberries to maintain the torpor level and prevent the Trike from waking up. You can force-feed Narcotics by accessing the Trike's inventory and selecting the "Use" option. Be mindful of the Trike's hunger, as it will only eat when hungry, and the taming progress will increase with each feeding.

During the taming process, protect the Trike from other predators. High-level Trikes are often targeted by carnivores like Raptors or Carnotaurus. If you are taming solo, consider building a temporary shelter or using a taming pen to keep the Trike safe. If you are in a tribe, assign a tribe member to guard the area while others focus on taming. Communication and coordination are key to ensuring a successful tame.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of food, which can slow down the taming process, or failing to monitor the Trike's torpor and health levels, which can result in the Trike waking up or dying. Additionally, avoid taming in dangerous areas with high predator activity, as this increases the risk of losing the Trike or your resources. Always scout the area beforehand and clear out any threats.

Advanced techniques for taming a high-level Trike include using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required. This can help you plan your resources and ensure you have enough Narcotics and food to complete the tame. Another optimization is to use a taming pen with a ramp or gate system, allowing you to lure the Trike into the pen and trap it safely. This method reduces the risk of the Trike escaping or being attacked during the taming process.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of Tranquilizer Arrows, Narcotics, and food. For a high-level Trike, prepare at least 20-30 Tranquilizer Arrows, 50-100 Narcotics, and a stack of Kibble or Mejoberries. If you are in a tribe, divide the tasks among members to gather resources more efficiently. Solo players should focus on stockpiling resources before attempting the tame.

Specific scenarios to consider include taming in different biomes or weather conditions. For example, taming in a cold biome may require additional preparation, such as wearing warm clothing or using a campfire to stay warm. In hot biomes, ensure you have enough water to avoid dehydration. Additionally, consider the time of day, as taming at night can be more challenging due to reduced visibility and increased predator activity.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Triceratops in ARK: Survival Evolved is a rewarding but challenging task. By understanding the taming mechanics, preparing the necessary resources, and following the strategies outlined above, you can successfully tame a powerful Trike to aid in your survival and progression. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and execution are essential for a successful tame.