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

Taming a high-level Araneo in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its unique behavior and taming mechanics. The Araneo, also known as the giant spider, is a cave-dwelling creature that can be found in various caves across the maps. It is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must feed it the correct food while avoiding its attacks. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame a high-level Araneo.

First, you need to prepare the necessary resources. The Araneo prefers Spoiled Meat or Raw Meat for taming. Spoiled Meat is more effective and will speed up the process. You will also need a good amount of Narcoberries or Narcotics to manage its torpor if it becomes aggressive. Additionally, bring a set of Ghillie Armor to reduce your visibility and a few Stimulants or Stimberries to counteract the Araneo's slowing venom. A crossbow with grappling hooks can be useful for navigating caves and escaping dangerous situations.

Before entering the cave, scout the area to ensure you know the Araneo's location and the surrounding threats. Caves are often filled with hostile creatures like Onyc, Arthropluera, and Titanoboas, so bring a strong mount like a Sabertooth or a pack of Dimorphodons to clear the path. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a few tamed creatures to assist you in combat. For tribes, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other during the taming process.

Once you locate the Araneo, approach it cautiously. The Araneo is passive until provoked, so avoid getting too close or making sudden movements. Equip your Ghillie Armor to reduce your visibility and crouch to move silently. Place the Spoiled Meat or Raw Meat in the last slot of your hotbar for quick access. Slowly approach the Araneo from behind or the side, as it may turn aggressive if you approach head-on. When you are close enough, feed it the meat by pressing the appropriate button (E on PC, Square on PlayStation, or X on Xbox).

After feeding the Araneo, it will gain a small amount of taming progress. However, it may also become aggressive and attack you. If this happens, retreat quickly and use your Stimulants or Stimberries to counteract the slowing effect of its venom. Once the Araneo calms down, repeat the process. Be patient, as high-level Araneos require multiple feedings and can take a significant amount of time to tame.

One common mistake is underestimating the Araneo's venom. Its attacks can slow you down, making it difficult to escape if other creatures in the cave become aggressive. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and have an escape plan. Another mistake is not bringing enough food or Narcoberries. High-level Araneos require a lot of Spoiled Meat, so bring at least 50-60 pieces to ensure you have enough. If you run out of food, the taming progress will reset, and you will have to start over.

For advanced players, consider building a small taming pen near the Araneo's location. Use stone or metal structures to create a secure area where you can lure the Araneo and tame it without interference from other creatures. This method is especially useful in crowded caves where multiple threats are present. Additionally, using a taming calculator can help you determine the exact amount of food and time required for the Araneo's level, allowing you to optimize your resources.

In terms of tribe considerations, having a teammate act as a lookout or assist in clearing the cave can make the process much smoother. One player can focus on taming while the other handles any incoming threats. For solo players, prioritize safety and always have a backup plan in case things go wrong. Bringing a strong mount and plenty of supplies is essential for surviving the cave environment.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Araneo requires preparation, patience, and careful execution. Gather the necessary resources, scout the cave, and approach the Araneo cautiously. Use Ghillie Armor to reduce visibility and be ready to retreat if it becomes aggressive. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating its venom or running out of food. Advanced techniques like building a taming pen or using a taming calculator can optimize the process. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, teamwork and preparation are key to successfully taming a high-level Araneo in ARK: Survival Evolved.