How do I build a base that is easy to expand in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base that is easy to expand in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and an understanding of the game's building mechanics. The key is to create a foundation that allows for growth while maintaining functionality and defense. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you achieve this.
First, choose a location that offers both safety and access to resources. Flat areas near water, metal nodes, and forests are ideal. Avoid building too close to dangerous creatures or high-traffic PvP zones. Once youÔÇÖve selected a spot, start by laying down a strong foundation. Use stone or metal for durability, as these materials are harder for creatures or players to destroy. Begin with a large, open floor plan to give yourself room to expand. A 4x4 or 5x5 foundation grid is a good starting point.
Next, build walls and a roof to protect your base from the elements and hostile creatures. Leave one side open or use large gates for easy access. This open design allows you to expand outward without needing to tear down walls later. Use doorframes instead of solid walls in areas where you plan to expand, as they can be easily replaced with walls or additional structures.
For resource management, place storage boxes, preserving bins, and crafting stations in a central area. This keeps your resources organized and accessible as your base grows. Use vertical space by adding multiple floors or platforms. This not only saves ground space but also allows you to expand upward if needed. Ladders or ramps can be used to connect different levels.
Power systems are essential for advanced base functionality. Start with a generator and connect it to key structures like refrigerators, crafting stations, and turrets. As you progress, consider adding renewable power sources like wind turbines or solar panels. Place these in areas where they wonÔÇÖt obstruct future expansions.
Defense is crucial, especially in PvP or high-danger areas. Surround your base with walls or spikes to deter creatures and players. Place turrets at key points to cover all angles. Tame defensive dinosaurs like Rexes or Carnos and position them around your base for added protection. Avoid placing structures too close to your walls, as this can create blind spots for turrets.
When expanding, plan ahead by leaving space between your current structures and future additions. Use pillars and ceilings to create overhangs or additional floors without needing to rebuild your entire base. This modular approach allows you to add new sections as needed without disrupting your existing setup.
Common mistakes include building too small initially, which limits expansion options, and using weak materials like thatch or wood, which are easily destroyed. Another mistake is overcrowding your base with unnecessary structures, making it difficult to expand later. Always prioritize functionality and leave room for growth.
Advanced techniques include using S+ or Super Structures mods, which offer more flexible building options and automation. These mods allow for easier expansion and more efficient resource management. In vanilla ARK, use fence foundations and pillars to create multi-level structures or bridges between buildings.
Resource requirements vary depending on the size and material of your base. For a stone base, gather plenty of stone, wood, and thatch. For metal bases, focus on metal ingots, cementing paste, and polymer. Always keep a surplus of materials on hand for quick expansions.
Tribe considerations include coordinating with your tribe members to ensure everyone has access to resources and crafting stations. Assign roles, such as gatherers, builders, and defenders, to streamline the process. Solo players should focus on smaller, more manageable expansions and prioritize defense to protect their base when offline.
Specific examples include building a central crafting hub with storage and crafting stations, surrounded by modular sections for taming pens, gardens, and additional storage. Another example is creating a multi-level base with the ground floor for crafting and storage, the second floor for living quarters, and the third floor for defense and observation.
In conclusion, building an expandable base in ARK requires careful planning, resource management, and a focus on functionality and defense. By starting with a strong foundation, leaving room for growth, and using modular designs, you can create a base that grows with your needs. Avoid common mistakes, use advanced techniques when possible, and always be prepared with the necessary resources. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, these strategies will help you build a base that is both secure and easy to expand.
First, choose a location that offers both safety and access to resources. Flat areas near water, metal nodes, and forests are ideal. Avoid building too close to dangerous creatures or high-traffic PvP zones. Once youÔÇÖve selected a spot, start by laying down a strong foundation. Use stone or metal for durability, as these materials are harder for creatures or players to destroy. Begin with a large, open floor plan to give yourself room to expand. A 4x4 or 5x5 foundation grid is a good starting point.
Next, build walls and a roof to protect your base from the elements and hostile creatures. Leave one side open or use large gates for easy access. This open design allows you to expand outward without needing to tear down walls later. Use doorframes instead of solid walls in areas where you plan to expand, as they can be easily replaced with walls or additional structures.
For resource management, place storage boxes, preserving bins, and crafting stations in a central area. This keeps your resources organized and accessible as your base grows. Use vertical space by adding multiple floors or platforms. This not only saves ground space but also allows you to expand upward if needed. Ladders or ramps can be used to connect different levels.
Power systems are essential for advanced base functionality. Start with a generator and connect it to key structures like refrigerators, crafting stations, and turrets. As you progress, consider adding renewable power sources like wind turbines or solar panels. Place these in areas where they wonÔÇÖt obstruct future expansions.
Defense is crucial, especially in PvP or high-danger areas. Surround your base with walls or spikes to deter creatures and players. Place turrets at key points to cover all angles. Tame defensive dinosaurs like Rexes or Carnos and position them around your base for added protection. Avoid placing structures too close to your walls, as this can create blind spots for turrets.
When expanding, plan ahead by leaving space between your current structures and future additions. Use pillars and ceilings to create overhangs or additional floors without needing to rebuild your entire base. This modular approach allows you to add new sections as needed without disrupting your existing setup.
Common mistakes include building too small initially, which limits expansion options, and using weak materials like thatch or wood, which are easily destroyed. Another mistake is overcrowding your base with unnecessary structures, making it difficult to expand later. Always prioritize functionality and leave room for growth.
Advanced techniques include using S+ or Super Structures mods, which offer more flexible building options and automation. These mods allow for easier expansion and more efficient resource management. In vanilla ARK, use fence foundations and pillars to create multi-level structures or bridges between buildings.
Resource requirements vary depending on the size and material of your base. For a stone base, gather plenty of stone, wood, and thatch. For metal bases, focus on metal ingots, cementing paste, and polymer. Always keep a surplus of materials on hand for quick expansions.
Tribe considerations include coordinating with your tribe members to ensure everyone has access to resources and crafting stations. Assign roles, such as gatherers, builders, and defenders, to streamline the process. Solo players should focus on smaller, more manageable expansions and prioritize defense to protect their base when offline.
Specific examples include building a central crafting hub with storage and crafting stations, surrounded by modular sections for taming pens, gardens, and additional storage. Another example is creating a multi-level base with the ground floor for crafting and storage, the second floor for living quarters, and the third floor for defense and observation.
In conclusion, building an expandable base in ARK requires careful planning, resource management, and a focus on functionality and defense. By starting with a strong foundation, leaving room for growth, and using modular designs, you can create a base that grows with your needs. Avoid common mistakes, use advanced techniques when possible, and always be prepared with the necessary resources. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, these strategies will help you build a base that is both secure and easy to expand.