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

Taming a high-level Desmodus in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. The Desmodus is a unique bat-like creature found in the Fjordur map, known for its ability to fly, carry smaller creatures, and provide useful buffs like stealth and healing. Taming a Desmodus is a passive process, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must gain its trust by feeding it blood packs while avoiding detection. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame a high-level Desmodus.

First, you need to prepare the necessary resources. The primary item required for taming a Desmodus is blood packs. You can craft blood packs using a blood extraction syringe and a container like a water jar or canteen. To craft the syringe, you need metal ingots, cementing paste, and polymer. Blood packs are created by using the syringe on yourself or another player, so ensure you have enough health or healing items to recover afterward. You will need approximately 20-30 blood packs for a high-level Desmodus, depending on its level and taming effectiveness. Additionally, bring a few extra blood packs in case of mistakes or interruptions.

Next, you need to locate a Desmodus. These creatures are found in the caves of the Fjordur map, particularly in the large underground caverns. They are nocturnal, so they are more active at night. When searching for a Desmodus, bring a strong mount like a Shadowmane or a Thylacoleo to help you navigate the caves and deal with other predators. A high-level Desmodus will have a higher health pool and better stats, so prioritize finding one above level 130 for optimal performance.

Once you find a Desmodus, the taming process begins. Desmodus are skittish and will flee if they detect you, so you must approach carefully. Equip a Ghillie suit to reduce your visibility and crouch to move silently. Desmodus are sensitive to light, so avoid using torches or other light sources. If you are playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to surround the Desmodus and block its escape routes. However, be cautious not to scare it further.

To start taming, approach the Desmodus slowly and feed it a blood pack. This will initiate the taming process. After feeding, the Desmodus will fly away and circle the area. You must follow it and repeat the process until it is fully tamed. Each feeding increases its taming progress, but you must remain undetected. If the Desmodus detects you, it will flee, and you will need to start over. Patience and stealth are key to successfully taming a Desmodus.

One common mistake is rushing the process. Moving too quickly or making noise can alert the Desmodus, causing it to flee. Always crouch and move slowly, even if it takes longer. Another mistake is not bringing enough blood packs. Running out of blood packs mid-tame can waste time and force you to restart. Always bring extra resources to avoid this issue.

Advanced techniques include using a taming pen to trap the Desmodus. Build a small enclosure with doorframes or gates in the cave where the Desmodus spawns. Lure the Desmodus into the pen and close the entrance to prevent it from escaping. This method makes the taming process easier, as the Desmodus cannot fly away after each feeding. However, building in caves can be challenging due to limited space and hostile creatures, so plan carefully.

For solo players, taming a Desmodus can be more difficult due to the need for stealth and coordination. However, using a taming pen and practicing patience can make the process manageable. Tribe players can divide tasks, with one player feeding the Desmodus while others block escape routes or defend against predators.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Desmodus requires preparation, stealth, and patience. Gather blood packs, locate a Desmodus in the caves, and approach it carefully to begin the taming process. Avoid common mistakes like rushing or running out of resources, and consider using advanced techniques like taming pens for easier taming. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, mastering these strategies will help you successfully tame a powerful Desmodus to aid in your survival and exploration in ARK: Survival Evolved.