How do I build a base that is resistant to earthquakes in ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, earthquakes are a unique environmental hazard found on the Extinction map. These earthquakes can damage structures, scatter resources, and disrupt your base if not properly prepared for. Building a base resistant to earthquakes requires careful planning, strategic placement, and the use of durable materials. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you create a base that can withstand these natural disasters.

First, understand the mechanics of earthquakes. On the Extinction map, earthquakes occur randomly and can damage structures, especially those made of weaker materials like thatch or wood. The damage is not uniform; it depends on the structureÔÇÖs material, placement, and proximity to the earthquakeÔÇÖs epicenter. Metal structures are the most resistant, while thatch and wood are highly vulnerable. Earthquakes also cause rocks and debris to fall from the sky, which can damage structures and injure players or dinosaurs. To mitigate this, you need to focus on building with strong materials and designing your base to minimize exposure to falling debris.

Start by choosing a safe location. Avoid building in areas prone to frequent earthquakes, such as near the Wasteland or the Desert Dome. Instead, opt for more stable regions like the Sanctuary or the Sunken Forest. These areas experience fewer earthquakes and provide a safer environment for your base. Once youÔÇÖve selected a location, gather the necessary resources. YouÔÇÖll need a significant amount of metal, cementing paste, and polymer to build a durable base. Metal structures are essential because they are highly resistant to earthquake damage. Cementing paste can be obtained from beaver dams or by crafting it with chitin/keratin and stone. Polymer can be harvested from organic sources like Kairuku or crafted using obsidian and cementing paste.

When building your base, prioritize using metal for walls, ceilings, and foundations. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are easily destroyed during an earthquake. Stone structures are more durable than thatch or wood but are still vulnerable compared to metal. If youÔÇÖre in the early game and lack access to metal, consider using stone temporarily while you gather resources for an upgrade. Additionally, design your base with a sloped or rounded roof to help deflect falling debris. Flat roofs are more likely to accumulate debris, increasing the risk of damage.

To further protect your base, consider building a protective canopy or overhang around the perimeter. This can be done using metal ceilings and pillars to create a shield against falling rocks. Place turrets or plant species X around your base to destroy debris before it hits your structures. These defenses can also deter hostile creatures or players, adding an extra layer of security. Inside your base, store valuable items in vaults or reinforced storage boxes to prevent them from being scattered or destroyed during an earthquake.

Resource management is crucial for maintaining a resilient base. Regularly gather metal, cementing paste, and polymer to ensure you have enough materials for repairs and upgrades. Establish a resource-gathering routine, using tamed dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for metal, Doedicurus for stone, and Beelzebufo for cementing paste. Efficient resource gathering will help you maintain your baseÔÇÖs durability over time.

For solo players, focus on building a compact and efficient base. A smaller base is easier to defend and requires fewer resources to maintain. Use turrets and traps to compensate for the lack of tribe members. If youÔÇÖre part of a tribe, divide responsibilities among members to streamline resource gathering, base construction, and defense. Assign roles such as gatherers, builders, and defenders to ensure your base is well-maintained and secure.

Common mistakes to avoid include building in high-risk areas, using weak materials, and neglecting defenses. Always prioritize metal structures and avoid flat roofs or open designs that are vulnerable to debris. Additionally, donÔÇÖt underestimate the importance of turrets and plant species X for both earthquake protection and base defense.

Advanced techniques include using Tek structures, which are even more durable than metal and offer additional benefits like energy shielding. If you have access to Tek tier, consider incorporating Tek walls, ceilings, and force fields into your base design. Another optimization is to build underground or within natural rock formations, which can provide additional protection from earthquakes and falling debris.

In summary, building a base resistant to earthquakes in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, durable materials, and strategic design. Choose a safe location, use metal structures, and implement defenses like turrets and plant species X. Manage your resources efficiently and consider advanced techniques like Tek structures for added durability. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you create a base that can withstand the challenges of the Extinction map.