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

Building a base resistant to alpha tuso attacks in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement. Alpha tusos, or alpha tusoteuthis, are aggressive deep-sea creatures that can deal significant damage to structures and tames. To protect your base from these threats, you need to focus on location, materials, defenses, and creature management.

First, choose a location that minimizes the risk of alpha tuso encounters. Alpha tusos are found in deep ocean biomes, so avoid building your base in or near these areas. Instead, opt for a coastal or inland location where the water is shallow or nonexistent. If you must build near the ocean, ensure your base is elevated or placed on a platform structure to keep it out of reach. Platforms like rafts or ocean platforms can be useful, but they must be reinforced to withstand attacks.

Next, prioritize using high-tier materials for your base. Stone structures are the minimum requirement, as thatch and wood will not hold up against alpha tusos. However, metal is the best choice for maximum durability. Metal walls, foundations, and ceilings are resistant to most creature attacks, including those from alpha tusos. If you are in the early to mid-game and lack metal resources, stone is a viable temporary solution, but upgrade to metal as soon as possible.

Defensive structures are essential for protecting your base. Turrets, both auto and heavy, can deter alpha tusos if they venture too close. Place these turrets strategically around your base, focusing on areas where the tusos are most likely to approach. Plant Species X turrets are also effective, as they can slow down and damage creatures. Additionally, consider building a perimeter wall around your base to create a buffer zone. Use behemoth gates or metal walls to enclose your base, ensuring the walls extend deep into the ground to prevent tusos from breaking through.

Tamed creatures can also play a role in base defense. While alpha tusos are formidable, a well-trained army of tames can help fend them off. Mosasaurs, plesiosaurs, and basilosaurs are excellent choices for underwater defense. Basilosaurs, in particular, are resistant to the tuso's grab attack, making them ideal for countering these threats. Keep your tames on neutral or aggressive settings to ensure they engage any approaching tusos.

Resource management is critical when building a tuso-resistant base. Gather large quantities of metal, stone, and polymer early on to ensure you have enough materials for upgrades and repairs. Use an ankylosaurus for efficient metal gathering and a doedicurus for stone. Polymer can be obtained from killing kairuku or harvesting organic polymer from mantises. Stockpile these resources to avoid running out during construction or repairs.

Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to deep water, using low-tier materials, and neglecting perimeter defenses. Even if your base is on land, alpha tusos can sometimes venture into shallow water, so always be cautious. Additionally, avoid leaving gaps in your walls or defenses, as tusos can exploit these weaknesses. Regularly check your base for damage and repair any breaches immediately.

Advanced techniques include using underwater traps or bait to lure tusos away from your base. You can also build decoy structures to distract them while your defenses deal with the threat. For tribes, coordinate with members to assign roles such as resource gathering, base construction, and creature taming. Solo players should focus on efficiency, using tames to automate resource gathering and defense.

In summary, building a base resistant to alpha tuso attacks requires careful planning, high-tier materials, and robust defenses. Choose a safe location, use metal structures, and deploy turrets and tames to protect your base. Avoid common mistakes like poor placement or weak materials, and always be prepared with ample resources. With these strategies, you can create a secure base that withstands even the most aggressive alpha tusos.