How do I tame a Rock Elemental in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Rock Elemental in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the more challenging tasks in the game due to its unique mechanics and high resistance to conventional taming methods. Rock Elementals are massive, rock-like creatures found in specific regions, such as the desert biome on Scorched Earth or the volcanic areas on other maps. They are highly resistant to most forms of damage and cannot be tamed using traditional knockout methods. Instead, taming a Rock Elemental requires a specific approach involving cannons or catapults, making it a complex and resource-intensive process.

The first step in taming a Rock Elemental is preparation. You will need a cannon or catapult, cannonballs or boulders, and a large amount of resources to build these items. Cannons are generally more effective due to their higher damage output, but catapults can also work if you are resource-constrained. Additionally, you will need a platform saddle for a Quetzal or a similar large flying creature to carry the cannon or catapult, as Rock Elementals are often found in areas that are difficult to access on foot. Building a secure taming pen is also recommended to prevent the Rock Elemental from escaping or being attacked by other creatures during the taming process.

Once you have gathered the necessary resources, the next step is to locate a Rock Elemental. These creatures are typically found in rocky or desert areas, such as the dunes on Scorched Earth or the volcanic regions on Ragnarok. When you find one, you will need to lure it into your taming pen. This can be done by using a fast mount, such as a Pteranodon or a Raptor, to aggro the Rock Elemental and lead it into the pen. Be cautious, as Rock Elementals deal significant damage and can easily destroy structures if not handled carefully.

After the Rock Elemental is in the pen, the taming process begins. Unlike most creatures, Rock Elementals cannot be knocked out with tranquilizers. Instead, you must use a cannon or catapult to fire cannonballs or boulders at its weak points. The weak points are the glowing cracks on its body, which appear when it takes damage. Aim carefully, as hitting these weak points is crucial for taming efficiency. Each successful hit will increase the taming progress, but be mindful of the Rock Elemental's health, as it can be killed if you deal too much damage.

One important consideration during the taming process is the Rock Elemental's torpor. Unlike other creatures, Rock Elementals do not have a traditional torpor stat. Instead, their taming progress is directly tied to the damage dealt to their weak points. This means you must balance dealing enough damage to increase taming progress while avoiding killing the creature. Using a cannon is generally more precise and allows for better control over the damage output compared to a catapult.

Resource management is critical when taming a Rock Elemental. You will need a significant amount of metal, gunpowder, and stone to craft cannonballs or boulders. Additionally, you will need a steady supply of food and water for yourself, as the taming process can take a considerable amount of time. Bringing a tribe member to assist can make the process easier, as one person can operate the cannon while the other manages resources or repairs the taming pen if necessary.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong weapons, such as firearms or melee weapons, which are ineffective against Rock Elementals. Another mistake is failing to secure the taming area, which can result in the Rock Elemental escaping or being attacked by other predators. Additionally, over-damaging the Rock Elemental can lead to its death, wasting all your efforts and resources. Always monitor its health and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Advanced techniques for taming a Rock Elemental include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry the cannon or catapult. This allows for greater mobility and precision when targeting the Rock Elemental's weak points. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact number of cannonballs or boulders required, ensuring you bring enough resources without over-preparing. Additionally, using a tribe to coordinate the taming process can significantly improve efficiency, as multiple players can handle different tasks simultaneously.

In conclusion, taming a Rock Elemental in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. It requires careful preparation, precise execution, and effective resource management. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a Rock Elemental and add a powerful ally to your arsenal. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, mastering this process will greatly enhance your survival and progression in the game.