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

Taming a high-level Equus in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of preparation, patience, and understanding of the creature's unique mechanics. The Equus 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 high-level Equus.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of taming an Equus. The Equus is a herbivore, so it prefers vegetables, berries, or crops. However, the most effective food for taming is Rockarrot, which significantly speeds up the process. You can also use crops like Savoroot or Kibble made from Dodo Eggs, but Rockarrot is the most accessible and efficient option. The Equus has a unique taming mechanic where you must mount it to feed it. Once mounted, it will buck you off repeatedly, and you must stay on its back for a short period to feed it. Each successful feed increases its taming progress, but if you fall off too many times, the Equus will become spooked and run away, resetting the taming process.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need Rockarrot, which can be grown in a crop plot using seeds and fertilizer. If you donÔÇÖt have Rockarrot, you can use other vegetables or berries, but the taming process will take longer. Additionally, you should bring a few stacks of Narcoberries or Narcotics to keep the Equus calm if it becomes agitated. You will also need a saddle to ride the Equus once it is tamed, so make sure you have the required materials to craft one.

Next, locate a high-level Equus. These creatures are commonly found in the grasslands and desert biomes, such as the areas around the Red Obelisk or the southern regions of The Island map. Once you find one, approach it slowly and crouch to avoid startling it. Equus are skittish and will run away if you move too quickly or make sudden movements. If you have a Bola, you can use it to immobilize the Equus temporarily, giving you time to mount it.

When you are close enough, press the interact button to mount the Equus. Once mounted, it will start bucking, and you must stay on its back. Use the movement keys to balance and avoid being thrown off. After a few seconds, you will be prompted to feed the Equus. Quickly open your inventory and transfer the Rockarrot or other preferred food to its inventory. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full. Be prepared for multiple attempts, as the Equus will buck you off several times before it is fully tamed.

One important tip is to avoid using weapons or tools near the Equus, as this can scare it away. Additionally, make sure the area is clear of predators, as they can attack the Equus or you during the taming process. If you are playing solo, consider building a small taming pen with walls and a gate to trap the Equus, making it easier to mount and feed it without it running away. If you are in a tribe, you can have a teammate help by using a Bola or distracting nearby predators.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Equus too quickly, which will cause it to flee, or failing to stay on its back long enough to feed it. Another mistake is not bringing enough food or resources, which can result in a failed tame. Always prepare extra Rockarrot and Narcoberries to ensure you have enough for the entire process.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the EquusÔÇÖs level. This can help you optimize your taming strategy and reduce the risk of failure. Additionally, if you have access to Kibble, using Dodo Egg Kibble will significantly speed up the taming process and yield better taming effectiveness.

In summary, taming a high-level Equus requires careful preparation, patience, and a good understanding of its taming mechanics. Gather Rockarrot or other preferred food, approach the Equus slowly, and be ready to mount and feed it multiple times. Use a Bola or taming pen to make the process easier, and avoid common mistakes like startling the Equus or running out of resources. With these strategies, you can successfully tame a high-level Equus and add a valuable mount to your collection in ARK: Survival Evolved.