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 preparation 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 gather 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 seeds and fertilizer. Additionally, you will need a Ghillie Suit or other armor that reduces your visibility, as the Procoptodon is easily startled. Carry some Narcoberries or Narcotics in case you accidentally aggro it and need to calm it down.

Next, locate a Procoptodon in the desert biome. These creatures are often found in open areas, so keep an eye out for their distinctive kangaroo-like appearance. Once you spot one, crouch and approach it slowly from behind. The Ghillie Suit will help you stay hidden, but even with it, you must move cautiously. If the Procoptodon detects you, it will hop away quickly, making it difficult to catch up. If this happens, back off and wait for it to calm down before trying again.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the Rare Flowers, Vegetables, or Rockarrot in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly feed the Procoptodon without fumbling through your inventory. Press the corresponding key to feed it, and the taming bar will begin to fill. Be patient, as the taming process can take some time, especially if you are using Vegetables or Rockarrot instead of Rare Flowers. Each feeding will increase the taming percentage, but you must wait for the Procoptodon to become hungry again before feeding it more.

One important tip is to avoid sudden movements or loud noises, as these can scare the Procoptodon. If you are playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to surround the creature quietly, ensuring it does not escape. Solo players should focus on staying hidden and feeding the Procoptodon as efficiently as possible. If you accidentally aggro the Procoptodon, use Narcoberries or Narcotics to calm it down, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can reset the taming process.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Procoptodon from the front, as it will detect you more easily. Additionally, do not attempt to tame it in an area with many predators, as they can attack you or the Procoptodon, disrupting the taming process. Always scout the area beforehand and clear out any threats. Another mistake is not having enough food for the taming process. Procoptodons have a high hunger rate, so bring plenty of Rare Flowers, Vegetables, or Rockarrot to avoid running out mid-tame.

For advanced techniques, consider building a taming pen to trap the Procoptodon. Use stone or metal structures to create a small enclosure with a ramp leading into it. Lure the Procoptodon into the pen by placing Rare Flowers or Vegetables inside, then quickly close the gate behind it. This method ensures the creature cannot escape, making the taming process much easier. Additionally, using a taming calculator can help you determine the exact amount of food and time required for the tame, allowing you to plan accordingly.

In terms of resource management, prioritize gathering Rare Flowers if possible, as they provide the fastest taming speed. If you are growing Vegetables or Rockarrot, ensure your crop plots are well-fertilized and irrigated to maximize yield. Always carry extra food and Narcotics in case the taming process takes longer than expected. For tribe play, assign roles to each member, such as one person gathering food while another builds the taming pen. Solo players should focus on efficiency and preparation to minimize risks.

In conclusion, taming a Procoptodon in the desert requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. By gathering the right resources, approaching the creature stealthily, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame this useful mount. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, the Procoptodon's ability to carry multiple passengers and its impressive jumping ability make it a valuable addition to your team. With these strategies and tips, you will be well-equipped to tame a Procoptodon and enhance your survival in ARK: Survival Evolved.