What are the best ways to build a base in the extinction biome in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Building a base in the Extinction biome of ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to the unique challenges of the environment. The Extinction map is filled with dangerous creatures, environmental hazards, and the constant threat of other players in PvP. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you build a secure and functional base in this biome.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of base building in ARK. Structures can be built using various materials, including thatch, wood, stone, and metal. Each material offers different levels of durability and protection. In the Extinction biome, itÔÇÖs crucial to use stone or metal for your base, as these materials provide better defense against both creatures and players. YouÔÇÖll also need to gather resources like wood, stone, fiber, and metal, which can be obtained by chopping trees, mining rocks, and harvesting plants. Additionally, youÔÇÖll need cementing paste, which can be crafted from chitin and stone or harvested from beaver dams.

To start building your base, choose a location that offers natural protection, such as a high cliff or a secluded area. Avoid building near spawn points of dangerous creatures like corrupted dinosaurs or near resource-rich areas that attract other players. Once youÔÇÖve selected a location, clear the area of any obstacles and lay down a foundation. Foundations provide stability for your base and allow you to build walls, ceilings, and other structures on top of them.

Next, build walls around your base to create a secure perimeter. Use stone or metal walls for maximum protection. Make sure to include a gate for easy access. You can also add turrets and traps around the perimeter to deter intruders. Turrets require ammunition, so make sure to stock up on bullets or other ammo types. Traps can be placed strategically to catch unsuspecting players or creatures.

Inside your base, youÔÇÖll need to set up storage solutions, crafting stations, and power systems. Storage boxes, preserving bins, and vaults are essential for organizing your resources and items. Crafting stations like forges, fabricators, and chem benches allow you to create advanced items and equipment. Power systems, such as generators or wind turbines, are necessary for running electric lights, refrigerators, and other advanced structures. Make sure to place these items in a secure area to prevent them from being destroyed.

Resource management is crucial for maintaining your base. Regularly gather resources and store them in your base to ensure a steady supply. Use tamed dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for mining metal and stone, and Therizinosaurus for gathering wood and fiber. These dinosaurs can significantly speed up the resource-gathering process. Additionally, consider setting up a greenhouse to grow crops for food and crafting materials.

When building your base, there are several common mistakes to avoid. One mistake is building too close to dangerous creatures or resource-rich areas, which can attract unwanted attention. Another mistake is using weak materials like thatch or wood, which can be easily destroyed. Always prioritize stone or metal for your base structures. Additionally, avoid overcrowding your base with too many structures, as this can make it difficult to navigate and defend.

For advanced techniques, consider using layered defenses and hidden compartments. Layered defenses involve building multiple layers of walls and turrets to create a more secure perimeter. Hidden compartments can be used to store valuable items and resources, making them harder for intruders to find. You can also use tamed dinosaurs as part of your defense strategy. Creatures like Rexes, Gigas, and Wyverns can be placed around your base to deter attackers.

Resource requirements for building a base in the Extinction biome are significant. YouÔÇÖll need large amounts of stone, metal, and cementing paste for the main structures. Additionally, youÔÇÖll need wood, fiber, and thatch for crafting and building smaller items. Make sure to gather these resources in bulk before starting your base.

Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, there are specific considerations to keep in mind. Solo players should focus on building a smaller, more manageable base that can be easily defended. Tribes can build larger, more complex bases with multiple layers of defense and specialized areas for different tasks. Communication and coordination are key for tribes to effectively manage and defend their base.

In specific scenarios, such as building near the Wasteland or the Sanctuary, youÔÇÖll need to adapt your strategy. The Wasteland is filled with corrupted creatures, so building a base here requires extra defenses and caution. The Sanctuary is a safer area but is often crowded with other players, so stealth and careful planning are essential.

In conclusion, building a base in the Extinction biome requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic defense. By following these steps and tips, you can create a secure and functional base that will help you survive and thrive in the dangerous world of ARK: Survival Evolved.