What is the best way to set up a dino pen in my base in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Setting up a dino pen in your base in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical part of ensuring the safety and functionality of your tamed creatures. A well-designed dino pen not only protects your dinosaurs from wild predators and hostile players but also makes it easier to manage and organize your tames. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to create an effective dino pen, covering mechanics, strategies, and considerations.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of building in ARK. Structures like walls, gates, and foundations are essential for creating a secure enclosure. Dino pens are typically built using walls to create a perimeter and a gate for entry and exit. The size of the pen depends on the types of dinosaurs you plan to house. Smaller creatures like Raptors or Dilos can be kept in a relatively small area, while larger dinosaurs like Rexes or Brontos require much more space. Always plan for future expansion, as your collection of tames will likely grow over time.
To start, gather the necessary resources. For a basic wooden dino pen, youÔÇÖll need wood, thatch, and fiber. Stone and metal structures are more durable and resistant to damage, so upgrade as soon as possible. Begin by laying down a foundation to ensure your pen is level and stable. Foundations also prevent wild creatures from spawning inside your pen. Next, build walls around the perimeter. For larger dinosaurs, consider using double-height walls or even behemoth gates, as some creatures can jump or climb over standard walls.
The gate is a crucial part of your dino pen. Use a dino gate for smaller creatures or a behemoth gate for larger ones. Make sure the gate is wide enough to accommodate your largest dinosaurs. Place the gate in a location that allows easy access for both you and your tames. Once the gate is in place, complete the walls around the pen. If youÔÇÖre playing on a PvP server, consider adding additional layers of defense, such as turrets or spike walls, to deter raiders.
When designing your dino pen, think about the layout. Create separate sections for different types of dinosaurs, such as carnivores and herbivores, to avoid conflicts. You can also include feeding troughs to keep your tames fed automatically. Place storage boxes nearby for easy access to saddles, food, and other supplies. If youÔÇÖre breeding dinosaurs, consider adding a separate breeding area with air conditioners or campfires to regulate temperature.
One common mistake is underestimating the size of your dino pen. Always leave extra space to accommodate new tames or larger creatures. Another mistake is using weak materials like thatch or wood in dangerous areas. Upgrade to stone or metal as soon as possible to protect your tames from wild predators or enemy players. Additionally, avoid placing your pen too close to resource-rich areas, as this can attract unwanted attention.
For advanced players, consider adding automation to your dino pen. Use generators and electrical cables to power turrets, lights, or even feeding troughs. You can also create a water pen for aquatic creatures by building near a water source and using water gates. If youÔÇÖre playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure everyone has access to the pen and its resources. Assign roles, such as a designated breeder or feeder, to streamline operations.
In terms of resource requirements, a basic wooden dino pen is relatively cheap, but upgrading to stone or metal will require significant amounts of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Prepare by gathering these materials in advance. Use a metal pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus for efficient mining, and a Doedicurus for stone. For cementing paste, farm chitin or keratin from insects or use a Beelzebufo to gather it quickly.
In solo play, focus on creating a compact and efficient pen that you can manage on your own. Prioritize durability and security over size. In a tribe, you can afford to build larger and more complex pens, but communication and coordination are key to maintaining them.
For example, if youÔÇÖre playing on The Island map, you might build your dino pen near the Green Obelisk for easy access to resources and a central location. On Scorched Earth, consider building near an oasis to provide water for your tames. On Aberration, use natural rock formations to create a secure pen, as the terrain can be challenging to navigate.
In conclusion, setting up a dino pen in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and attention to detail. By following these steps and considering the tips provided, you can create a secure and functional enclosure for your tames, ensuring their safety and your success in the game.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of building in ARK. Structures like walls, gates, and foundations are essential for creating a secure enclosure. Dino pens are typically built using walls to create a perimeter and a gate for entry and exit. The size of the pen depends on the types of dinosaurs you plan to house. Smaller creatures like Raptors or Dilos can be kept in a relatively small area, while larger dinosaurs like Rexes or Brontos require much more space. Always plan for future expansion, as your collection of tames will likely grow over time.
To start, gather the necessary resources. For a basic wooden dino pen, youÔÇÖll need wood, thatch, and fiber. Stone and metal structures are more durable and resistant to damage, so upgrade as soon as possible. Begin by laying down a foundation to ensure your pen is level and stable. Foundations also prevent wild creatures from spawning inside your pen. Next, build walls around the perimeter. For larger dinosaurs, consider using double-height walls or even behemoth gates, as some creatures can jump or climb over standard walls.
The gate is a crucial part of your dino pen. Use a dino gate for smaller creatures or a behemoth gate for larger ones. Make sure the gate is wide enough to accommodate your largest dinosaurs. Place the gate in a location that allows easy access for both you and your tames. Once the gate is in place, complete the walls around the pen. If youÔÇÖre playing on a PvP server, consider adding additional layers of defense, such as turrets or spike walls, to deter raiders.
When designing your dino pen, think about the layout. Create separate sections for different types of dinosaurs, such as carnivores and herbivores, to avoid conflicts. You can also include feeding troughs to keep your tames fed automatically. Place storage boxes nearby for easy access to saddles, food, and other supplies. If youÔÇÖre breeding dinosaurs, consider adding a separate breeding area with air conditioners or campfires to regulate temperature.
One common mistake is underestimating the size of your dino pen. Always leave extra space to accommodate new tames or larger creatures. Another mistake is using weak materials like thatch or wood in dangerous areas. Upgrade to stone or metal as soon as possible to protect your tames from wild predators or enemy players. Additionally, avoid placing your pen too close to resource-rich areas, as this can attract unwanted attention.
For advanced players, consider adding automation to your dino pen. Use generators and electrical cables to power turrets, lights, or even feeding troughs. You can also create a water pen for aquatic creatures by building near a water source and using water gates. If youÔÇÖre playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure everyone has access to the pen and its resources. Assign roles, such as a designated breeder or feeder, to streamline operations.
In terms of resource requirements, a basic wooden dino pen is relatively cheap, but upgrading to stone or metal will require significant amounts of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Prepare by gathering these materials in advance. Use a metal pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus for efficient mining, and a Doedicurus for stone. For cementing paste, farm chitin or keratin from insects or use a Beelzebufo to gather it quickly.
In solo play, focus on creating a compact and efficient pen that you can manage on your own. Prioritize durability and security over size. In a tribe, you can afford to build larger and more complex pens, but communication and coordination are key to maintaining them.
For example, if youÔÇÖre playing on The Island map, you might build your dino pen near the Green Obelisk for easy access to resources and a central location. On Scorched Earth, consider building near an oasis to provide water for your tames. On Aberration, use natural rock formations to create a secure pen, as the terrain can be challenging to navigate.
In conclusion, setting up a dino pen in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and attention to detail. By following these steps and considering the tips provided, you can create a secure and functional enclosure for your tames, ensuring their safety and your success in the game.