What is the best material to use for early-game base building in ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, early-game base building is critical for survival, as it provides shelter from the elements, hostile creatures, and other players in PvP scenarios. The best material to use for early-game base building is wood, as it strikes a balance between durability, resource availability, and ease of construction. Wood structures are stronger than thatch and can withstand attacks from smaller creatures, making them a reliable choice for beginners. However, wood is still vulnerable to stronger predators and players with advanced tools, so upgrading to stone or metal later is essential for long-term security.

To start building a wood base, you will need to gather resources. Wood is obtained by chopping down trees using tools like a stone hatchet or a metal hatchet, which is more efficient. You will also need thatch, which is a byproduct of chopping trees, and fiber, which is gathered by harvesting bushes with your hands or a sickle. Stone can be collected by hitting rocks with a pickaxe, and flint is often obtained as a byproduct. These materials are used to craft the necessary tools and building structures. Early on, prioritize crafting a stone hatchet, pickaxe, and a campfire for basic survival needs.

Once you have gathered enough resources, open your inventory and navigate to the crafting menu. Select the wooden structures you want to build, such as walls, foundations, ceilings, and doors. Start by placing a foundation, as it serves as the base for your structure. Foundations provide stability and allow you to build upward and outward. After placing the foundation, add walls to enclose the area. Make sure to leave space for a doorframe and door, as this will be your entry point. Ceilings can be added to create a roof, which protects you from aerial threats and weather conditions.

When building your base, consider the location carefully. Choose a spot that is relatively flat and close to essential resources like water, trees, and rocks. Avoid areas with high concentrations of aggressive creatures, as they can destroy your base or kill you while you are building. Additionally, try to build near a water source for easy access to hydration and fish, but avoid building too close to the water to prevent flooding or attacks from aquatic creatures.

One common mistake early-game players make is building too large or too complex of a base. This can drain your resources quickly and leave you vulnerable to attacks. Start with a small, functional base that meets your immediate needs, such as storage, crafting, and sleeping. As you gather more resources and tame dinosaurs to help with gathering, you can expand your base and upgrade to stronger materials like stone or metal.

Advanced techniques for early-game base building include using natural terrain features for added protection. For example, building near cliffs or large rocks can limit the angles from which enemies can approach your base. You can also use tamed dinosaurs like Trikes or Stegos to gather large amounts of wood and thatch quickly, speeding up the construction process. Additionally, consider placing spike walls around your base perimeter to deter smaller predators and hostile players.

Resource management is crucial in early-game base building. Always keep an eye on your inventory and storage to ensure you have enough materials for repairs and expansions. Crafting storage boxes early on will help you organize your resources and keep them safe from theft or destruction. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks like gathering, building, and taming to maximize efficiency. Solo players should focus on multitasking and prioritizing tasks based on immediate needs.

In summary, wood is the best material for early-game base building in ARK: Survival Evolved due to its balance of durability and accessibility. Start by gathering resources like wood, thatch, fiber, and stone, then craft the necessary tools and structures. Choose a safe location, build a small and functional base, and use natural terrain features for added protection. Avoid common mistakes like overbuilding and poor resource management, and consider advanced techniques like using tamed dinosaurs for gathering and spike walls for defense. With careful planning and efficient resource management, your early-game base will serve as a strong foundation for survival and progression in the game.