How do I tame a Procoptodon in the desert in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Procoptodon in the desert in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its unique taming mechanics. The Procoptodon, also known as the giant kangaroo, is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the right food to gain its trust. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame a Procoptodon in the desert biome.

First, you need to prepare the necessary resources. The Procoptodon prefers Rare Flowers for taming, but it will also accept Vegetables or Rockarrot if Rare Flowers are unavailable. Rare Flowers can be harvested from swamp plants or crafted in a Cooking Pot using 20x Rare Mushrooms and 40x Tintoberry. Vegetables and Rockarrot can be grown in crop plots if you have the necessary seeds and fertilizer. Additionally, you will need a Ghillie Suit or other armor that reduces your visibility, as the Procoptodon is easily startled. Carry a few Stimberries or Stimulant to counteract the torpor effect if you accidentally aggro the creature.

Next, locate a Procoptodon in the desert biome. They are often found in open areas, so keep an eye out for their distinctive hopping movement. Once you spot one, crouch and approach it slowly from behind. Wearing a Ghillie Suit will help you stay undetected. If the Procoptodon notices you, it will hop away quickly, so patience is key. When you are close enough, open its inventory and place the Rare Flowers, Vegetables, or Rockarrot inside. The taming bar will begin to fill, but the Procoptodon will only eat when it is calm and not running away.

One important tip is to avoid sudden movements or loud noises, as these can scare the Procoptodon. If it starts to flee, do not chase it. Instead, wait for it to calm down and try again. You can also use a taming pen to make the process easier. Build a small enclosure with walls and a gate, then lure the Procoptodon inside using Rare Flowers or another method. Once it is trapped, you can safely feed it without worrying about it escaping.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Procoptodon from the front, as this will almost always cause it to flee. Additionally, do not attempt to tame it during a sandstorm or in areas with aggressive predators, as these can disrupt the process. Always check your surroundings before starting the taming process to ensure you are in a safe location.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the tame. This can help you plan your resources more efficiently. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather the necessary resources and build a taming pen. Solo players should focus on preparing everything in advance to avoid interruptions.

Resource management is crucial for taming a Procoptodon. Ensure you have enough Rare Flowers, Vegetables, or Rockarrot before starting the tame. If you are growing crops, make sure your crop plots are well-fertilized and irrigated to produce a steady supply of food. Carry extra food and narcotics in case the taming process takes longer than expected.

In terms of progression, taming a Procoptodon can be a game-changer. It is an excellent mount for transportation due to its high speed and ability to jump long distances. Additionally, it can carry a second player in its pouch, making it useful for tribe expeditions. Once tamed, you can use the Procoptodon to explore the desert biome more efficiently and gather resources like Cactus Sap or Silk.

In summary, taming a Procoptodon in the desert requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. Gather the necessary resources, approach the creature slowly, and avoid startling it. Use a taming pen if possible, and always be mindful of your surroundings. With the right strategy, you can successfully tame a Procoptodon and add a valuable ally to your team in ARK: Survival Evolved.