How do I build a base that is resistant to earthquakes in ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, earthquakes are a unique environmental hazard found on the Extinction map. These earthquakes can damage structures and disrupt your base if not properly prepared for. Building a base resistant to earthquakes requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement of structures. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you create a sturdy base that can withstand these natural disasters.

First, understand the mechanics of earthquakes in ARK. 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 catastrophic but can weaken your base over time if not addressed. To mitigate this, you need to focus on using stronger materials like stone or metal for your base construction. Stone structures are more resistant to earthquake damage compared to thatch or wood, while metal structures are the most durable and nearly immune to earthquake effects.

To start building an earthquake-resistant base, gather the necessary resources. You will need a significant amount of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone can be harvested from rocks using a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. Metal is obtained from metal nodes, which are abundant in certain areas of the map. Cementing paste can be crafted using chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle, or by harvesting it from beaver dams or using a tamed Achatina snail. Having a tamed Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus can greatly speed up the resource gathering process, as these dinosaurs are specialized for harvesting stone and metal.

Once you have the resources, choose a location for your base. Avoid building in areas prone to frequent earthquakes, such as near the city terminals or in the wasteland. Instead, opt for safer zones like the sanctuary or the sunken forest, where earthquakes are less frequent. When placing your foundations, ensure they are on flat ground to prevent uneven stress on the structure. Use stone or metal foundations, as they provide the best stability and durability.

Next, construct your walls, ceilings, and other structural components using stone or metal. Metal is the best choice for maximum durability, but stone is a good alternative if metal is scarce. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are more susceptible to earthquake damage. For added stability, consider using pillars to support your ceilings and reduce the risk of collapse. Pillars can be placed vertically to provide additional support to your base structure.

To further protect your base, consider building multiple layers of walls. This not only adds extra protection against earthquakes but also makes your base more secure against potential raids. Use double walls or even triple walls if you have the resources. Additionally, reinforce your base with turrets and defensive structures to deter hostile creatures and players.

Resource management is crucial when building an earthquake-resistant base. Ensure you have a steady supply of stone, metal, and cementing paste by setting up resource gathering outposts near rich resource nodes. Use tamed dinosaurs like the Ankylosaurus, Doedicurus, and Achatina to automate and speed up resource collection. Store your resources in secure storage containers like vaults or large storage boxes to prevent them from being lost or stolen.

For solo players, building an earthquake-resistant base can be more challenging due to the resource requirements. Focus on smaller, more manageable structures and prioritize using metal for critical components like foundations and walls. Consider taming dinosaurs that can help with resource gathering and base defense to make the process easier.

For tribes, coordinate with your members to divide tasks such as resource gathering, construction, and defense. Assign specific roles to each member to ensure efficient progress. Use the tribeÔÇÖs combined resources to build larger, more fortified bases with multiple layers of protection.

Common mistakes to avoid include using weak materials like thatch or wood, building in earthquake-prone areas, and neglecting to reinforce your base with pillars and multiple walls. Additionally, avoid overextending your base, as larger structures are more difficult to maintain and protect.

Advanced techniques include using tek structures, which are highly durable and resistant to all forms of damage, including earthquakes. Tek structures require rare resources like element and black pearls, so they are more suitable for late-game bases. Another optimization is to use greenhouse structures for certain parts of your base, as they provide additional insulation and can be reinforced with metal frames.

In summary, building an earthquake-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved involves using strong materials like stone and metal, choosing a safe location, reinforcing your structures with pillars and multiple walls, and managing resources efficiently. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and strategic construction will ensure your base can withstand the challenges of the Extinction map.