What is the best way to build a base in the Extinction map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Building a base in the Extinction map of ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to the unique challenges of the map, such as environmental hazards, hostile creatures, and the presence of corrupted dinosaurs. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you create a secure and functional base.

First, choose a location wisely. The Extinction map is divided into distinct biomes, each with its own dangers and resources. The Sanctuary is a relatively safe starting area, as it is protected from corrupted creatures and has access to basic resources like wood, stone, and metal. However, it is also a popular spot, so if you are playing on a PvP server, you may face competition. For a more secluded base, consider building in the Sunken Forest or the Desert Dome, but be prepared to deal with tougher enemies and environmental hazards like radiation or extreme temperatures.

Once youÔÇÖve selected a location, gather the necessary resources. Start by collecting wood, thatch, and fiber for basic structures. Use a pickaxe or hatchet to mine stone and flint. Metal is crucial for advanced structures, so prioritize finding metal nodes, which are abundant in the Snow Dome and around the edges of the map. Use a metal pick or an Ankylosaurus to harvest metal efficiently. Polymer can be obtained from killing corrupted creatures or harvesting organic polymer from Kairuku in the Snow Dome.

Begin building your base with a strong foundation. Use stone or metal for the foundation, walls, and ceilings, as these materials provide better protection against attacks. Wood is cheaper but less durable and can be destroyed by stronger creatures or players. Start with a small, enclosed structure to store your resources and crafting stations. Include a bed or sleeping bag for respawning and a storage box for organizing items.

Defense is critical in Extinction. Build walls and gates around your base to keep out hostile creatures. Place turrets on high points or towers to deter attackers. Use plant species X for additional defense, as they can slow down and damage enemies. Tame and station defensive dinosaurs like Rexes, Allos, or Velonasaurs near your base to help fend off threats. Keep in mind that corrupted creatures can deal significant damage, so ensure your defenses are robust.

Power your base using generators or renewable energy sources like wind turbines. Extinction has strong winds, making wind turbines highly effective. Connect your power grid to essential structures like refrigerators, crafting stations, and turrets. Use electrical cables and outlets to distribute power efficiently. Avoid overloading your system by calculating the power consumption of your devices.

Storage and organization are key to maintaining an efficient base. Use large storage boxes, preserving bins, and vaults to store resources and items. Label your storage containers to easily locate items. Preserving bins are essential for keeping food fresh, while refrigerators are even better if you have the resources to craft them.

For solo players, focus on building a compact, well-defended base that is easy to manage. Prioritize essential structures and avoid overextending. For tribes, divide responsibilities among members to gather resources, build, and defend the base. Larger tribes can afford to build expansive bases with multiple layers of defense.

Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to resource-rich areas, which can attract unwanted attention, and neglecting defenses, leaving your base vulnerable to attacks. Another mistake is overloading your power grid, which can cause your defenses to fail. Always plan your base layout carefully to avoid these issues.

Advanced techniques include using tek structures for enhanced durability and functionality. Tek generators provide more power and are more durable than regular generators. Tek turrets offer superior firepower and can target flying creatures. Additionally, consider building a hidden or underground base to avoid detection by other players.

In summary, building a base in Extinction requires careful planning, resource management, and strong defenses. Choose a safe location, gather essential resources, and prioritize durability and functionality. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, focus on efficient base design and robust defenses to survive the challenges of the Extinction map.