How do I build a base that is resistant to earthquakes in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base resistant to earthquakes in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and understanding of the game's mechanics. Earthquakes are a unique environmental hazard found primarily on the Extinction map, where they can damage structures and disrupt your base. To create a base that can withstand these events, you need to focus on material choice, structural design, and strategic placement.
First, let's discuss the mechanics of earthquakes. Earthquakes on the Extinction map occur randomly and can damage structures, especially those made of weaker materials like thatch or wood. The damage is not uniform; it tends to affect larger structures more severely. Therefore, the key to earthquake resistance is using stronger materials like stone or metal, which have higher durability and are less likely to be destroyed. Additionally, smaller, more compact bases are less likely to suffer significant damage compared to sprawling, large-scale structures.
To start building an earthquake-resistant base, you should prioritize gathering resources like stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone is a good early-game material, but metal is the most durable and ideal for long-term resistance. Cementing paste is essential for crafting metal structures, so be sure to farm chitin or keratin from insects, scorpions, or keratin-rich creatures like the Triceratops. You can also craft cementing paste using stone and chitin in a mortar and pestle or by taming a Beelzebufo, which produces cementing paste when eating insects.
Once you have the necessary resources, begin constructing your base. Start with a strong foundation using metal or stone foundations. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are too weak to withstand earthquakes. When building walls, ceilings, and other structural components, stick to metal or stone. Metal is the best choice for maximum durability, but stone is a good alternative if metal is scarce. Ensure that your base is compact and well-supported. Avoid building tall structures or large open spaces, as these are more vulnerable to earthquake damage.
Placement is another critical factor. Avoid building in areas prone to frequent earthquakes, such as near the Wasteland or the Desert Dome. Instead, choose safer locations like the Sanctuary or the Sunken Forest, where earthquakes are less frequent. If you must build in a high-risk area, consider elevating your base on pillars or platforms to reduce the impact of ground tremors. However, keep in mind that elevated structures still need strong support to avoid collapsing during an earthquake.
Defensive measures are also important. While earthquakes are the primary concern, your base should still be protected from hostile creatures and other players. Use metal walls and gates to secure your perimeter, and consider placing turrets or tamed dinosaurs like Rexes or Spinos for added defense. If you're playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure everyone contributes to resource gathering and base maintenance. Solo players should focus on efficient resource management and prioritize essential structures to avoid overextending.
Common mistakes to avoid include using weak materials, building in high-risk areas, and creating overly large or complex structures. These mistakes can leave your base vulnerable to earthquakes and other threats. Additionally, neglecting to reinforce your base as you progress can lead to costly repairs or complete destruction. Always upgrade your structures as soon as possible, and regularly check for damage after an earthquake.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures, which are highly durable and resistant to earthquakes. However, Tek structures require rare resources like Element, which can only be obtained by defeating bosses or completing missions. If you have access to Tek, consider incorporating it into your base design for maximum protection. Another optimization is using S+ or Super Structures mods, which offer additional building options and enhanced durability for structures.
In summary, building an earthquake-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, strong materials, and strategic placement. Focus on using metal or stone for all structures, keep your base compact, and avoid high-risk areas. Gather resources efficiently, and consider advanced options like Tek structures if available. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, prioritize durability and defense to ensure your base can withstand the challenges of the Extinction map.
First, let's discuss the mechanics of earthquakes. Earthquakes on the Extinction map occur randomly and can damage structures, especially those made of weaker materials like thatch or wood. The damage is not uniform; it tends to affect larger structures more severely. Therefore, the key to earthquake resistance is using stronger materials like stone or metal, which have higher durability and are less likely to be destroyed. Additionally, smaller, more compact bases are less likely to suffer significant damage compared to sprawling, large-scale structures.
To start building an earthquake-resistant base, you should prioritize gathering resources like stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone is a good early-game material, but metal is the most durable and ideal for long-term resistance. Cementing paste is essential for crafting metal structures, so be sure to farm chitin or keratin from insects, scorpions, or keratin-rich creatures like the Triceratops. You can also craft cementing paste using stone and chitin in a mortar and pestle or by taming a Beelzebufo, which produces cementing paste when eating insects.
Once you have the necessary resources, begin constructing your base. Start with a strong foundation using metal or stone foundations. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are too weak to withstand earthquakes. When building walls, ceilings, and other structural components, stick to metal or stone. Metal is the best choice for maximum durability, but stone is a good alternative if metal is scarce. Ensure that your base is compact and well-supported. Avoid building tall structures or large open spaces, as these are more vulnerable to earthquake damage.
Placement is another critical factor. Avoid building in areas prone to frequent earthquakes, such as near the Wasteland or the Desert Dome. Instead, choose safer locations like the Sanctuary or the Sunken Forest, where earthquakes are less frequent. If you must build in a high-risk area, consider elevating your base on pillars or platforms to reduce the impact of ground tremors. However, keep in mind that elevated structures still need strong support to avoid collapsing during an earthquake.
Defensive measures are also important. While earthquakes are the primary concern, your base should still be protected from hostile creatures and other players. Use metal walls and gates to secure your perimeter, and consider placing turrets or tamed dinosaurs like Rexes or Spinos for added defense. If you're playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure everyone contributes to resource gathering and base maintenance. Solo players should focus on efficient resource management and prioritize essential structures to avoid overextending.
Common mistakes to avoid include using weak materials, building in high-risk areas, and creating overly large or complex structures. These mistakes can leave your base vulnerable to earthquakes and other threats. Additionally, neglecting to reinforce your base as you progress can lead to costly repairs or complete destruction. Always upgrade your structures as soon as possible, and regularly check for damage after an earthquake.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures, which are highly durable and resistant to earthquakes. However, Tek structures require rare resources like Element, which can only be obtained by defeating bosses or completing missions. If you have access to Tek, consider incorporating it into your base design for maximum protection. Another optimization is using S+ or Super Structures mods, which offer additional building options and enhanced durability for structures.
In summary, building an earthquake-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, strong materials, and strategic placement. Focus on using metal or stone for all structures, keep your base compact, and avoid high-risk areas. Gather resources efficiently, and consider advanced options like Tek structures if available. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, prioritize durability and defense to ensure your base can withstand the challenges of the Extinction map.