What is the best way to hide a base from other players in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Hiding a base from other players in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical aspect of survival, especially in PvP servers where raids are common. 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 hidden or difficult to access. Areas like dense forests, underwater caves, or high cliffs are excellent choices. Avoid popular resource-rich areas, as these are frequently visited by other players. When selecting a location, consider the terrain. Building into the side of a cliff or blending your base into the environment can make it harder to spot. For example, using natural rock formations or trees to obscure your base can be very effective.

Next, use materials that blend with the environment. Stone structures are less noticeable than metal ones, especially in rocky or forested areas. Avoid using bright colors or materials that stand out. If you must use metal, consider painting it to match the surroundings. Camouflage is your friend. Additionally, keep your base small and compact. Large bases are easier to spot from a distance, so aim for a minimalistic design that meets your needs without drawing attention.

When building, avoid creating straight lines or unnatural shapes. Nature is random, so a base that looks too uniform will stand out. Use irregular shapes and angles to make your base blend in. For example, instead of a square or rectangular base, build in a way that follows the natural contours of the land. This makes it harder for other players to spot your base from a distance.

Another important strategy is to avoid leaving obvious signs of activity. Do not leave tamed dinosaurs wandering around your base, as they can be seen from a distance. Instead, keep them inside or hidden in a nearby pen. Avoid using smoke or light sources that can give away your location. If you need light, use dim or hidden light sources that are not easily visible from afar.

Resource management is crucial when building a hidden base. Gather materials discreetly and avoid overharvesting in one area, as this can alert other players to your presence. Use tools like the pickaxe and hatchet efficiently to minimize the time spent gathering resources. Store your resources in hidden or secure containers to prevent them from being stolen if your base is discovered.

Defensive measures are also important. Even if your base is hidden, you should still prepare for the possibility of being found. Use traps like bear traps or plant species X to deter intruders. Place turrets strategically to cover key entry points. However, be cautious with turrets, as their firing can give away your location. Consider using hidden turrets or placing them in a way that they only activate when an intruder is close.

For advanced techniques, consider using multiple small bases instead of one large one. This reduces the risk of losing everything in a raid. Spread your resources and tames across several hidden locations. Another advanced strategy is to build decoy bases. These are fake bases designed to distract and mislead other players. Place them in obvious locations to draw attention away from your real base.

Tribe considerations are also important. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your members to keep your base hidden. Assign roles for gathering, building, and defending. Communication is key to maintaining secrecy. For solo players, focus on stealth and efficiency. Keep your base small and avoid drawing attention to yourself.

Common mistakes to avoid include building in high-traffic areas, using bright or unnatural colors, and leaving tames or resources exposed. Another mistake is overbuilding, which can make your base more noticeable. Always prioritize stealth and security over size and aesthetics.

In summary, hiding a base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution. Choose a hidden location, use materials that blend with the environment, and avoid leaving signs of activity. Manage your resources efficiently and prepare for the possibility of being found. Use advanced techniques like multiple bases and decoys to further protect your assets. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, maintaining secrecy is crucial for survival in the dangerous world of ARK.