What are the best dinosaurs to use for gathering resources for base building in ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, gathering resources efficiently is crucial for base building, and using the right dinosaurs can make this process much faster and easier. Different dinosaurs excel at gathering specific resources, so choosing the right ones for your needs is key. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on the best dinosaurs for resource gathering, how to use them, and tips to optimize your base-building efforts.

First, letÔÇÖs talk about the mechanics of resource gathering with dinosaurs. Most dinosaurs have a primary attack (left-click) and a secondary attack (right-click) that can be used to harvest resources. Some dinosaurs also have special abilities, like the AnkylosaurusÔÇÖs ability to gather metal and flint more efficiently. When you ride a dinosaur, you can target specific resources like trees, rocks, or plants, and the dinosaur will automatically gather the appropriate materials. Some dinosaurs also have weight reduction for certain resources, allowing you to carry more before becoming encumbered.

For gathering wood, the best dinosaurs are the Beaver (Castoroides) and the Mammoth. The Beaver is particularly efficient because it not only gathers wood quickly but also reduces the weight of wood in its inventory, allowing you to carry more. The Mammoth is also a great choice, especially in snowy biomes, as it can gather large amounts of wood and thatch with its trunk attack. To use these dinosaurs, simply approach a tree and attack it with their primary attack. Beavers can also build dams, which contain valuable resources like wood, cementing paste, and pearls, so keep an eye out for these.

For stone and metal, the Ankylosaurus is the best option. Its tail attack is highly effective at gathering these resources, and it also reduces the weight of metal in its inventory. To gather stone, attack regular rocks, and for metal, look for metal nodes, which are usually found in mountainous areas. The Doedicurus is another excellent choice for gathering stone, as it can roll into a ball and smash rocks, gathering large amounts of stone quickly.

For thatch, the best dinosaur is the Therizinosaurus. This dinosaur has a unique attack that gathers large amounts of thatch from trees, as well as wood and fiber. The Therizinosaurus is also versatile and can gather other resources like berries and hide, making it a great all-around gatherer. To use it, simply attack trees with its primary attack.

For fiber, the best dinosaur is the Gigantopithecus, also known as the Bigfoot. This creature can gather fiber from bushes and plants with its primary attack. ItÔÇÖs also useful for carrying items, as it can hold tools and weapons in its hands. Another good option for fiber is the Moschops, which can be set to wander and will automatically gather fiber and other resources.

When gathering resources, itÔÇÖs important to consider weight management. Many dinosaurs have weight reduction for specific resources, so make sure to check their inventory before heading out. For example, the Argentavis reduces the weight of metal and obsidian, making it a great choice for transporting these heavy resources back to your base. Always bring a flyer like the Argentavis or Quetzal to help carry heavy loads, especially when gathering metal or stone in remote areas.

One common mistake is not preparing properly before heading out to gather resources. Always bring enough food and water for yourself and your dinosaurs, as well as tools like pickaxes and hatchets for gathering resources that your dinosaurs canÔÇÖt handle. ItÔÇÖs also a good idea to bring a few backup dinosaurs in case one gets injured or killed. Another mistake is not protecting your dinosaurs while theyÔÇÖre gathering. Always keep an eye out for hostile creatures and be ready to defend your dinosaurs if necessary.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport multiple resource-gathering dinosaurs at once. For example, you can carry an Ankylosaurus and a Doedicurus on the platform saddle, allowing you to gather both metal and stone in one trip. You can also use a chainsaw for gathering wood and thatch, which is faster than using dinosaurs but requires fuel.

In terms of tribe and solo considerations, tribes can divide tasks among members, with some players gathering resources while others focus on building or defending the base. Solo players will need to manage their time carefully, balancing resource gathering with other tasks like taming and crafting. Always prioritize safety and efficiency, and donÔÇÖt overextend yourself by gathering too many resources at once.

In summary, using the right dinosaurs for resource gathering can greatly improve your base-building efficiency in ARK: Survival Evolved. Beavers and Mammoths are best for wood, Ankylosaurs and Doedicurus for stone and metal, Therizinosaurus for thatch, and Gigantopithecus for fiber. Always prepare properly, manage weight, and protect your dinosaurs while gathering. Advanced techniques like using a Quetzal with a platform saddle can further optimize your resource gathering. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you build a strong and secure base.