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

Taming a high-level Carno in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. The Carnotaurus, or Carno, is a medium-sized carnivore that can be a valuable asset for combat and transportation. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Carno effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

To begin, you need to understand the taming mechanics for the Carno. Carnos are aggressive creatures that must be knocked out before taming. This means you will need to use tranquilizing methods to render the Carno unconscious. Once it is knocked out, you can feed it its preferred food to tame it. Carnos prefer raw meat, but using kibble or prime meat will significantly speed up the taming process and improve the taming effectiveness, which affects the creature's stats after taming.

The first step is to gather the necessary resources. You will need a weapon to knock out the Carno, such as a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or a crossbow with tranq arrows. For higher-level Carnos, a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts is more effective. You will also need narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Carno unconscious during the taming process. Additionally, gather plenty of raw meat, prime meat, or kibble. Kibble made from Rex eggs is the most effective but requires advanced preparation. If you are taming solo, consider bringing a few stacks of narcotics and a large amount of food to ensure you can sustain the taming process.

Next, locate a high-level Carno. Carnos are commonly found in open areas such as the beaches, forests, and grasslands. Once you find a suitable Carno, you need to knock it out. Start by luring the Carno into a safe area where it won't be attacked by other predators or fall into water. You can use a taming pen to trap the Carno, which makes the process easier. A taming pen can be built with stone or metal foundations and walls, with a ramp leading into it. Lure the Carno into the pen using a fast mount like a Raptor or by running on foot, then close the entrance to trap it.

Once the Carno is trapped, begin knocking it out. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain. Use tranq arrows or darts, and keep an eye on the Carno's torpor level. Be careful not to kill it, as high-level Carnos have a lot of health but can still be killed if you deal too much damage. After the Carno is unconscious, quickly place raw meat, prime meat, or kibble into its inventory. Monitor its torpor level and feed it narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious. The taming process can take a while, especially for high-level Carnos, so be patient.

There are several important tips to consider. First, always carry extra narcotics or biotoxin, as the Carno's torpor will drop over time. Second, avoid taming in dangerous areas where other predators might attack you or the Carno. Third, use a taming calculator to estimate the amount of food and time required for the tame. This will help you prepare adequately. Fourth, if you are taming solo, consider using a taming pen to make the process safer and more manageable.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of food, which can slow down the taming process. Always use the best available food, such as kibble or prime meat, for high-level Carnos. Another mistake is not monitoring the Carno's torpor level, which can lead to it waking up and ruining the tame. Additionally, avoid taming in areas with high predator activity, as this can lead to the Carno being killed or interrupted during the taming process.

Advanced techniques include using a taming pen with a trapdoor or gate system to make trapping the Carno easier. You can also use a taming raft, which is a boat with a taming pen built on it, to safely transport the Carno to a secure location. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and narcotics needed, reducing waste and ensuring a smooth taming process.

Resource requirements for taming a high-level Carno include a weapon for knocking it out, narcotics or biotoxin, and a large amount of food. If you are using kibble, you will need to prepare it in advance by collecting Rex eggs and other ingredients. For solo players, it is essential to bring extra resources and plan carefully to avoid running out of supplies during the tame.

In a tribe setting, taming a Carno can be easier with multiple players. One player can focus on knocking out the Carno, while another monitors its torpor and feeds it narcotics. A third player can guard the area to prevent other predators from interfering. Tribe members can also help gather resources and build a taming pen, making the process more efficient.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Carno in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, patience, and careful execution. By understanding the mechanics, gathering the necessary resources, and using proven strategies, you can successfully tame a powerful Carno to aid in your survival and progression. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, following these steps will help you achieve a successful tame and add a valuable asset to your team.