How do I build a base in a cave in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base in a cave in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Caves offer natural protection from the elements and hostile creatures, as well as strategic advantages in PvP scenarios. However, cave bases come with unique challenges, such as limited space, environmental hazards, and the need to defend against both creatures and players. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you successfully build a cave base.
First, you need to scout the cave you want to build in. Not all caves are suitable for bases, as some are too small or filled with dangerous creatures. Look for caves with enough space to accommodate your structures and tamed dinosaurs. Some caves also have water sources, which can be useful for irrigation or taming purposes. Once youÔÇÖve chosen a cave, clear it of hostile creatures. Bring strong tames like Rexes, Allos, or Therizinos to handle the high-level predators that often spawn in caves. Be prepared for combat, as cave creatures are typically tougher than those outside.
Next, gather the necessary resources. Building in a cave requires a lot of materials, especially stone and metal, as these provide the best durability and protection. Wood structures are not recommended because they are weak and can be easily destroyed by fire or explosives. YouÔÇÖll need a lot of stone for foundations, walls, and ceilings, as well as metal for doors, gates, and turrets. Bring a high-level Ankylosaurus for efficient metal and stone gathering, and a Doedicurus for stone. Fiber and thatch can be gathered by hand or with a Therizino.
Start by laying down foundations. Caves often have uneven terrain, so you may need to use pillars or ceilings to create a stable base. Place foundations in a way that maximizes space while leaving room for essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and defensive measures. Once the foundations are in place, build walls and ceilings to enclose the area. Make sure to leave gaps for doors and windows, but keep them minimal to reduce weak points in your defense.
Defense is critical for a cave base. Caves are popular targets for raiders, so you need to fortify your base with turrets, traps, and tamed creatures. Place auto turrets or plant species X turrets at key entry points to deter intruders. Use bear traps or spike walls to slow down attackers. Tamed creatures like Rexes, Carnos, or Megalosaurs can serve as guards, but make sure they are set to neutral or aggressive to defend your base. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider using smaller, more manageable creatures like Dimorphodons or Microraptors for defense.
Power systems are essential for advanced structures like turrets, refrigerators, and crafting stations. Use generators or renewable power sources like wind turbines or solar panels, depending on the caveÔÇÖs environment. Be mindful of fuel consumption and keep a stock of gasoline or other resources to keep your systems running. Storage is also important. Use vaults or large storage boxes to keep your resources safe and organized. Preserving bins can help store perishable items like meat and berries.
One common mistake is underestimating the space needed for tamed dinosaurs. Caves are often cramped, so plan your layout carefully to accommodate your tames. Use ramps or elevators to create multi-level structures if space is limited. Another mistake is neglecting ventilation. Caves can become cluttered with smoke from forges or campfires, so build chimneys or use air conditioners to improve airflow.
Advanced techniques include using tek structures for added durability and functionality. Tek walls and doors are resistant to explosives and provide better protection than stone or metal. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, assign roles to members for efficient resource gathering, base building, and defense. Solo players should focus on compact, self-sustaining designs to minimize resource consumption and maintenance.
In summary, building a cave base in ARK requires careful planning, resource management, and strong defenses. Choose the right cave, clear it of threats, and gather ample resources before starting construction. Use durable materials like stone and metal, and fortify your base with turrets, traps, and tamed creatures. Avoid common mistakes like poor space management and inadequate ventilation. With the right strategy, your cave base can become an impenetrable fortress and a key asset in your survival journey.
First, you need to scout the cave you want to build in. Not all caves are suitable for bases, as some are too small or filled with dangerous creatures. Look for caves with enough space to accommodate your structures and tamed dinosaurs. Some caves also have water sources, which can be useful for irrigation or taming purposes. Once youÔÇÖve chosen a cave, clear it of hostile creatures. Bring strong tames like Rexes, Allos, or Therizinos to handle the high-level predators that often spawn in caves. Be prepared for combat, as cave creatures are typically tougher than those outside.
Next, gather the necessary resources. Building in a cave requires a lot of materials, especially stone and metal, as these provide the best durability and protection. Wood structures are not recommended because they are weak and can be easily destroyed by fire or explosives. YouÔÇÖll need a lot of stone for foundations, walls, and ceilings, as well as metal for doors, gates, and turrets. Bring a high-level Ankylosaurus for efficient metal and stone gathering, and a Doedicurus for stone. Fiber and thatch can be gathered by hand or with a Therizino.
Start by laying down foundations. Caves often have uneven terrain, so you may need to use pillars or ceilings to create a stable base. Place foundations in a way that maximizes space while leaving room for essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and defensive measures. Once the foundations are in place, build walls and ceilings to enclose the area. Make sure to leave gaps for doors and windows, but keep them minimal to reduce weak points in your defense.
Defense is critical for a cave base. Caves are popular targets for raiders, so you need to fortify your base with turrets, traps, and tamed creatures. Place auto turrets or plant species X turrets at key entry points to deter intruders. Use bear traps or spike walls to slow down attackers. Tamed creatures like Rexes, Carnos, or Megalosaurs can serve as guards, but make sure they are set to neutral or aggressive to defend your base. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider using smaller, more manageable creatures like Dimorphodons or Microraptors for defense.
Power systems are essential for advanced structures like turrets, refrigerators, and crafting stations. Use generators or renewable power sources like wind turbines or solar panels, depending on the caveÔÇÖs environment. Be mindful of fuel consumption and keep a stock of gasoline or other resources to keep your systems running. Storage is also important. Use vaults or large storage boxes to keep your resources safe and organized. Preserving bins can help store perishable items like meat and berries.
One common mistake is underestimating the space needed for tamed dinosaurs. Caves are often cramped, so plan your layout carefully to accommodate your tames. Use ramps or elevators to create multi-level structures if space is limited. Another mistake is neglecting ventilation. Caves can become cluttered with smoke from forges or campfires, so build chimneys or use air conditioners to improve airflow.
Advanced techniques include using tek structures for added durability and functionality. Tek walls and doors are resistant to explosives and provide better protection than stone or metal. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, assign roles to members for efficient resource gathering, base building, and defense. Solo players should focus on compact, self-sustaining designs to minimize resource consumption and maintenance.
In summary, building a cave base in ARK requires careful planning, resource management, and strong defenses. Choose the right cave, clear it of threats, and gather ample resources before starting construction. Use durable materials like stone and metal, and fortify your base with turrets, traps, and tamed creatures. Avoid common mistakes like poor space management and inadequate ventilation. With the right strategy, your cave base can become an impenetrable fortress and a key asset in your survival journey.