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

Taming a high-level Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging but rewarding tasks in the game. Rock Drakes are unique creatures found in the Aberration map, known for their ability to climb walls, glide, and turn invisible. They are highly sought after for their versatility in exploration and combat. However, taming them requires careful preparation, as the process is complex and dangerous.

The first step in taming a Rock Drake is locating one. Rock Drakes are found in the deepest parts of the Aberration map, specifically in the Radiation Zone and the Element Falls area. These regions are hazardous due to high radiation levels, so you will need a Hazard Suit or a strong radiation-resistant creature like a Basilisk or a Megalosaurus to survive. Additionally, Rock Drakes are often found near their nests, which contain Rock Drake Eggs. These eggs are essential for taming, as Rock Drakes cannot be tamed through traditional knockout or passive methods.

To begin the taming process, you must steal a Rock Drake Egg from a nest. This is a high-risk activity because the parent Rock Drakes will become aggressive and attack you if they detect you near their nest. To minimize the risk, approach the nest carefully, preferably while riding a fast and agile creature like a Ravager or a Rock Drake of your own if you already have one. Use the creature's climbing ability to reach the nest quickly, grab the egg, and escape before the Rock Drakes can react. It is crucial to have a plan for retreat, as the Radiation Zone is filled with dangerous creatures like Nameless and Reaper Kings.

Once you have the egg, you need to incubate it to hatch a baby Rock Drake. Rock Drake Eggs require specific conditions to hatch. The egg must be placed in a cold environment, as it has a low temperature tolerance. You can achieve this by using Air Conditioners, Dimetrodons, or placing the egg in a naturally cold area like the surface of Aberration during the night. Monitor the egg's temperature using the incubation menu, and adjust the environment as needed to keep it within the optimal range. The incubation process takes time, so be patient and ensure the egg is safe from predators.

After the egg hatches, you will have a baby Rock Drake that needs to be raised. Baby Rock Drakes require constant care, including feeding and imprinting. They start with a low food stat, so you must feed them Nameless Venom regularly to keep them alive. Nameless Venom can be obtained by killing Nameless creatures, which spawn in the Radiation Zone and other areas of Aberration. Keep a large supply of Nameless Venom on hand, as the baby Rock Drake will consume it quickly during its early stages of growth.

Imprinting is another critical aspect of raising a Rock Drake. Imprinting increases the creature's stats and strengthens the bond between you and the Rock Drake. To imprint, interact with the baby Rock Drake when it requests care, such as walking, cuddling, or feeding it a specific food item. Imprinting requires attention and timing, so be prepared to spend time with the baby Rock Drake during its growth stages. A fully imprinted Rock Drake will have significantly improved stats and loyalty, making it a powerful ally.

One common mistake players make when taming Rock Drakes is underestimating the dangers of the Radiation Zone. The area is filled with aggressive creatures and environmental hazards, so always bring adequate protection, such as a Hazard Suit, weapons, and a strong mount. Another mistake is not preparing enough Nameless Venom for the baby Rock Drake, which can lead to its death if it runs out of food. Plan ahead and gather a surplus of resources to avoid these pitfalls.

For advanced players, optimizing the taming process can save time and resources. Using a high-level Rock Drake to steal eggs makes the process faster and safer, as you can quickly escape from danger. Additionally, setting up a secure base near the Radiation Zone with Air Conditioners and storage for Nameless Venom can streamline the incubation and raising process. Coordinating with a tribe can also make the task easier, as multiple players can gather resources, protect the egg, and care for the baby Rock Drake.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Rock Drake in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex but rewarding endeavor. It requires careful preparation, resource management, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame and raise a powerful Rock Drake to aid you in your adventures on the Aberration map. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, the effort invested in taming a Rock Drake will pay off with a versatile and formidable companion.