How do I build a base that is hidden underwater in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a hidden underwater base in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. It requires careful planning, resource management, and an understanding of the game's mechanics. Below is a detailed guide to help you create a secure and functional underwater base.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of underwater building. In ARK, you can build underwater using structures like foundations, walls, ceilings, and pillars. However, you must use specific materials that can withstand water, such as stone or metal. Thatch and wood structures will decay quickly underwater, so avoid using them. Additionally, you need to consider oxygen levels. While you can craft scuba gear or use oxygen tanks to stay underwater longer, your base must have a way to replenish oxygen for you and your tames. This can be achieved by building airlocks or using Tek structures later in the game.
To start, scout a suitable location. Look for areas with minimal hostile creatures and enough space to build. Popular underwater locations include the ocean floor near underwater caves or deep trenches. Once you find a spot, gather the necessary resources. You will need a lot of stone, metal, and cementing paste for stone or metal structures. Cementing paste can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams. Metal is essential for advanced structures and can be mined from metal nodes on land or underwater.
Next, begin building your base. Start by placing foundations on the ocean floor. Use pillars to stabilize the structure if the terrain is uneven. Once the foundation is secure, build walls and ceilings to create an enclosed space. Make sure to leave openings for doors or hatches to enter and exit. To create an airlock, build a small room with two doors. This allows you to enter the base without flooding it. You can also use vertical pipes and air vents to create oxygen pockets inside the base.
Resource management is crucial for underwater bases. Since you cannot farm underwater, you need to gather resources on land and transport them to your base. Use tames like the Megalodon or Basilosaurus for underwater transportation. The Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it provides oxygen and insulation while underwater. For land transportation, use tames like the Ankylosaurus for metal and the Doedicurus for stone.
Defense is another important consideration. Underwater bases are vulnerable to creatures like the Mosasaurus and Plesiosaur, as well as other players in PvP. To protect your base, build turrets or plant species X plants around the perimeter. Tame and station aggressive underwater creatures like the Tusoteuthis or Megalodon near your base to deter intruders. Additionally, camouflage your base by building it in a hidden location or using natural terrain features like rocks and coral to blend in.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to the surface, which makes your base easier to spot, and using weak materials like thatch or wood. Another mistake is neglecting oxygen management, which can lead to suffocation for you and your tames. Always ensure your base has a reliable oxygen source.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures for underwater bases. Tek foundations, walls, and ceilings are more durable and provide better insulation. You can also use Tek generators to power your base without worrying about fuel. Additionally, Tek forcefields can protect your base from intruders. However, Tek structures require rare resources like Element, which can only be obtained from boss fights or specific maps.
For solo players, underwater bases can be more challenging due to the resource and time requirements. Focus on building a smaller, more efficient base and prioritize tames that help with resource gathering and transportation. For tribes, divide tasks among members to speed up the building process. Assign roles like resource gatherers, builders, and defenders to ensure the base is completed quickly and securely.
In conclusion, building a hidden underwater base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and defense strategies. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a secure and functional underwater base that serves as a safe haven in the dangerous world of ARK.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of underwater building. In ARK, you can build underwater using structures like foundations, walls, ceilings, and pillars. However, you must use specific materials that can withstand water, such as stone or metal. Thatch and wood structures will decay quickly underwater, so avoid using them. Additionally, you need to consider oxygen levels. While you can craft scuba gear or use oxygen tanks to stay underwater longer, your base must have a way to replenish oxygen for you and your tames. This can be achieved by building airlocks or using Tek structures later in the game.
To start, scout a suitable location. Look for areas with minimal hostile creatures and enough space to build. Popular underwater locations include the ocean floor near underwater caves or deep trenches. Once you find a spot, gather the necessary resources. You will need a lot of stone, metal, and cementing paste for stone or metal structures. Cementing paste can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams. Metal is essential for advanced structures and can be mined from metal nodes on land or underwater.
Next, begin building your base. Start by placing foundations on the ocean floor. Use pillars to stabilize the structure if the terrain is uneven. Once the foundation is secure, build walls and ceilings to create an enclosed space. Make sure to leave openings for doors or hatches to enter and exit. To create an airlock, build a small room with two doors. This allows you to enter the base without flooding it. You can also use vertical pipes and air vents to create oxygen pockets inside the base.
Resource management is crucial for underwater bases. Since you cannot farm underwater, you need to gather resources on land and transport them to your base. Use tames like the Megalodon or Basilosaurus for underwater transportation. The Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it provides oxygen and insulation while underwater. For land transportation, use tames like the Ankylosaurus for metal and the Doedicurus for stone.
Defense is another important consideration. Underwater bases are vulnerable to creatures like the Mosasaurus and Plesiosaur, as well as other players in PvP. To protect your base, build turrets or plant species X plants around the perimeter. Tame and station aggressive underwater creatures like the Tusoteuthis or Megalodon near your base to deter intruders. Additionally, camouflage your base by building it in a hidden location or using natural terrain features like rocks and coral to blend in.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to the surface, which makes your base easier to spot, and using weak materials like thatch or wood. Another mistake is neglecting oxygen management, which can lead to suffocation for you and your tames. Always ensure your base has a reliable oxygen source.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures for underwater bases. Tek foundations, walls, and ceilings are more durable and provide better insulation. You can also use Tek generators to power your base without worrying about fuel. Additionally, Tek forcefields can protect your base from intruders. However, Tek structures require rare resources like Element, which can only be obtained from boss fights or specific maps.
For solo players, underwater bases can be more challenging due to the resource and time requirements. Focus on building a smaller, more efficient base and prioritize tames that help with resource gathering and transportation. For tribes, divide tasks among members to speed up the building process. Assign roles like resource gatherers, builders, and defenders to ensure the base is completed quickly and securely.
In conclusion, building a hidden underwater base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and defense strategies. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a secure and functional underwater base that serves as a safe haven in the dangerous world of ARK.