How do I build a base that is hidden from other players in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Building a hidden base in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical strategy for survival, especially in PvP environments where other players may seek to raid or destroy your structures. The goal is to make your base as inconspicuous as possible while maintaining functionality and security. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, location is key. Choose a spot that is naturally concealed by the environment. Dense forests, cliff edges, underwater caves, or areas with heavy foliage are excellent choices. Avoid high-traffic areas like resource-rich zones or near popular spawn points. For example, the Redwood Forest is a great location because its tall trees and dense underbrush can obscure your base. Similarly, underwater caves on maps like The Island or The Center are naturally hidden and difficult to access without proper preparation.

Once youÔÇÖve chosen a location, start small. Build a compact base to minimize visibility. Use materials that blend with the environment. For example, in a forest, use wood or thatch structures, as they are less noticeable than stone or metal. Avoid building large, flat surfaces that can reflect light and draw attention. Instead, build vertically or in irregular shapes to make your base harder to spot from a distance.

Camouflage is essential. Use natural terrain features like rocks, trees, and cliffs to hide your base. Place foundations and walls in a way that they are partially obscured by the environment. For example, build into the side of a cliff or under a large tree canopy. You can also use foliage like bushes or trees to further conceal your base. On some maps, you can plant species X plants around your base to blend in with the environment while also providing defense.

Light management is another critical factor. Avoid using torches or electric lights at night, as they can be seen from far away. If you need light, use dim sources like standing torches placed inside structures where the light wonÔÇÖt leak out. Alternatively, use glow pets like Glowtails or Bulbdogs for illumination without drawing attention.

Resource management is crucial for maintaining a hidden base. Store your resources in hidden compartments or underwater vaults to prevent them from being discovered. Use small storage boxes instead of large vaults, as they are easier to conceal. Spread out your storage across multiple hidden locations to minimize the risk of losing everything in a raid.

Defense is still important, even for a hidden base. Use passive defenses like plant species X or turrets placed in concealed locations. Avoid placing turrets in obvious spots, as they can give away your baseÔÇÖs location. Instead, place them in areas where they can cover key entry points without being easily seen. Tame small, inconspicuous creatures like Dimorphodons or Microraptors to patrol the area and alert you to intruders.

Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to popular resource nodes or spawn points, using bright or reflective materials, and leaving obvious trails or signs of activity. For example, avoid cutting down too many trees or mining too many rocks near your base, as this can leave noticeable scars on the landscape. Also, avoid leaving tamed dinosaurs out in the open, as they can attract attention.

Advanced techniques include using underwater bases or building in hard-to-reach locations like high cliffs or deep caves. Underwater bases are particularly effective because they are difficult to access without the proper gear, such as scuba equipment or tamed aquatic creatures. You can also use Tek structures for advanced camouflage, as they can be painted to blend in with the environment.

Resource requirements for a hidden base include wood, thatch, stone, and fiber for basic structures. For more advanced bases, youÔÇÖll need metal, cementing paste, and polymer. Prepare by gathering these resources in advance and storing them in a secure location before starting construction.

For solo players, focus on small, easily concealed bases with minimal storage and defenses. For tribes, consider building multiple small bases spread across the map to distribute resources and reduce the risk of losing everything in a raid. Coordinate with your tribe to ensure that everyone knows the location and layout of the hidden bases.

In conclusion, building a hidden base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and attention to detail. Choose a concealed location, use natural camouflage, manage light and resources wisely, and implement passive defenses to keep your base safe from prying eyes. Avoid common mistakes and consider advanced techniques like underwater bases or Tek structures for added security. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, a well-hidden base can be the key to survival in the dangerous world of ARK.