How do I tame a high-level Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging but rewarding tasks in the game. Rock Drakes are unique creatures found in the Aberration map, known for their ability to climb walls, glide, and turn invisible. They are highly sought after for their versatility in both exploration and combat. However, taming a Rock Drake requires careful preparation, as the process is complex and dangerous.

To begin, you must locate Rock Drake eggs. These eggs are found in the deepest parts of the Aberration map, specifically in the Rock Drake Nest area within the Radiation Zone. This area is extremely hazardous due to the presence of high-level predators, radiation, and aggressive Rock Drakes guarding their nests. Before attempting to retrieve an egg, you will need to prepare for the harsh environment. Craft Hazard Suit Armor to protect yourself from radiation, and bring plenty of medical brews, food, and water. Additionally, you will need a strong mount, such as a high-level Ravager or Megalosaurus, to help you navigate the area and fend off threats.

Once you are prepared, head to the Rock Drake Nest area. Be cautious, as the nests are guarded by adult Rock Drakes, which will become hostile if they detect you stealing an egg. Use stealth to approach the nests, and try to avoid drawing attention. When you find an egg, pick it up quickly and retreat. Be aware that stealing an egg will trigger a swarm of aggressive Rock Drakes to chase you, so have an escape plan ready. Using a climbing mount like a Ravager or a zip line can help you navigate the terrain and escape quickly.

After obtaining the egg, you will need to incubate it. Rock Drake eggs require a specific temperature range to hatch, which can be achieved using air conditioners, dimetrodons, or standing torches. Place the egg in a controlled environment and monitor its temperature. Once the egg hatches, you will have a baby Rock Drake. At this point, the taming process begins. Unlike most creatures, Rock Drakes are not tamed through knockout or passive feeding. Instead, you must raise the baby Rock Drake from infancy to adulthood.

Raising a Rock Drake requires a significant amount of time and resources. You will need to feed the baby Rock Drake Nameless Venom, which is obtained by killing Nameless creatures in the Aberration map. Nameless Venom is essential for the Rock Drake's growth, so stockpile as much as possible before starting the process. Additionally, you will need to provide the baby Rock Drake with regular food, such as raw meat or fish, to keep it healthy. Be prepared to spend several hours tending to the baby Rock Drake, as it will require constant care and attention.

One of the most important tips for taming a Rock Drake is to ensure you have a safe and secure base. The baby Rock Drake is vulnerable to attacks from predators, so build a well-protected area to raise it. Use walls, turrets, and other defenses to keep threats at bay. Additionally, consider using a feeding trough to automate the feeding process, as this will save you time and effort.

A common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of the Rock Drake Nest area. Without proper preparation, you risk losing your gear, mounts, and even your life. Always bring backup supplies and have a plan for escaping if things go wrong. Another mistake is not having enough Nameless Venom. Running out of venom during the raising process can lead to the Rock Drake's death, so gather plenty before starting.

For advanced players, optimizing the taming process can save time and resources. Use a high-level Dimetrodon to regulate the egg's temperature, as it provides a wide temperature range and reduces the need for multiple air conditioners. Additionally, consider using a tribe to share the workload. Raising a Rock Drake is a time-consuming task, and having multiple players to help with feeding and protection can make the process much smoother.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. It requires careful preparation, resource management, and patience. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame and raise a powerful Rock Drake to aid you in your adventures on the Aberration map. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, the effort you put into taming a Rock Drake will be well worth it, as these creatures are among the most versatile and powerful mounts in the game.