How do I build a base that is resistant to volcanic ash in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base resistant to volcanic ash in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and understanding of the game mechanics. Volcanic ash is a hazard found in certain areas, such as the volcanic biome on the Scorched Earth map or the lava regions on other maps. This ash can damage structures and harm players or dinosaurs if not properly managed. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you build a base that can withstand volcanic ash.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of volcanic ash. Volcanic ash causes damage over time to structures and creatures that are exposed to it. The damage is similar to fire or lava, so you need to build your base using materials that are resistant to these elements. Stone and metal structures are the best choices because they are highly durable and resistant to environmental hazards like ash. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are weak and will quickly degrade in volcanic areas.
To start building your ash-resistant base, gather the necessary resources. You will need a lot of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone can be collected by mining rocks with a pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus. Metal is found in metal nodes, which are often located in mountainous or volcanic areas. Cementing paste can be crafted using chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle, or you can harvest it from beaver dams or by taming a Beelzebufo. Having a high-level Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus will make gathering stone and metal much faster and more efficient.
Once you have the resources, choose a location for your base. Avoid building directly in the path of volcanic ash or lava flows. Look for a spot that is elevated or slightly outside the immediate danger zone. This will reduce the risk of your base being constantly exposed to ash. If you must build in a high-risk area, consider creating a raised platform or using pillars to elevate your structures above the ground.
Next, construct your base using stone or metal foundations, walls, and ceilings. Stone is a good early-game option, but metal is the best choice for long-term durability. Make sure to enclose your base completely to prevent ash from entering. Use doors or gates with airlocks to minimize exposure when entering or exiting. If you are playing on a map with extreme heat, such as Scorched Earth, consider adding air conditioners or adobe structures to regulate temperature.
For added protection, you can build a secondary layer of walls or fences around your base. This creates a buffer zone that can absorb some of the ash damage before it reaches your main structures. You can also place turrets or defensive dinosaurs like Rexes or Carnotaurus around the perimeter to deter hostile creatures that may wander into the area.
Resource management is crucial when building in volcanic regions. Always keep a stockpile of repair materials, such as stone, metal, and cementing paste, in case your structures take damage. Store these materials in a secure vault or storage box inside your base. If you are playing solo, consider taming a pack mule like a Paracer or Mammoth to help transport large amounts of resources.
One common mistake is underestimating the amount of resources needed. Volcanic regions are harsh, and your base may require frequent repairs. Always gather more materials than you think youÔÇÖll need. Another mistake is building too close to lava or ash sources. Even with resistant materials, constant exposure will wear down your structures over time. Always maintain a safe distance.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures, which are highly resistant to environmental hazards. However, Tek requires defeating bosses and accessing late-game content, so it may not be an option for newer players. Another optimization is to use greenhouse structures for growing crops. Greenhouses provide insulation and protection, making them ideal for volcanic areas.
If you are playing in a tribe, assign roles to members for resource gathering, building, and defense. A well-coordinated tribe can build a large, secure base much faster than a solo player. Solo players should focus on smaller, more efficient designs to conserve resources and reduce the risk of being overwhelmed.
In summary, building a base resistant to volcanic ash in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, durable materials, and strategic location choices. Use stone or metal structures, gather ample resources, and avoid common mistakes like building too close to hazards. With proper preparation and resource management, you can create a safe and functional base even in the most dangerous volcanic regions.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of volcanic ash. Volcanic ash causes damage over time to structures and creatures that are exposed to it. The damage is similar to fire or lava, so you need to build your base using materials that are resistant to these elements. Stone and metal structures are the best choices because they are highly durable and resistant to environmental hazards like ash. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are weak and will quickly degrade in volcanic areas.
To start building your ash-resistant base, gather the necessary resources. You will need a lot of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone can be collected by mining rocks with a pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus. Metal is found in metal nodes, which are often located in mountainous or volcanic areas. Cementing paste can be crafted using chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle, or you can harvest it from beaver dams or by taming a Beelzebufo. Having a high-level Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus will make gathering stone and metal much faster and more efficient.
Once you have the resources, choose a location for your base. Avoid building directly in the path of volcanic ash or lava flows. Look for a spot that is elevated or slightly outside the immediate danger zone. This will reduce the risk of your base being constantly exposed to ash. If you must build in a high-risk area, consider creating a raised platform or using pillars to elevate your structures above the ground.
Next, construct your base using stone or metal foundations, walls, and ceilings. Stone is a good early-game option, but metal is the best choice for long-term durability. Make sure to enclose your base completely to prevent ash from entering. Use doors or gates with airlocks to minimize exposure when entering or exiting. If you are playing on a map with extreme heat, such as Scorched Earth, consider adding air conditioners or adobe structures to regulate temperature.
For added protection, you can build a secondary layer of walls or fences around your base. This creates a buffer zone that can absorb some of the ash damage before it reaches your main structures. You can also place turrets or defensive dinosaurs like Rexes or Carnotaurus around the perimeter to deter hostile creatures that may wander into the area.
Resource management is crucial when building in volcanic regions. Always keep a stockpile of repair materials, such as stone, metal, and cementing paste, in case your structures take damage. Store these materials in a secure vault or storage box inside your base. If you are playing solo, consider taming a pack mule like a Paracer or Mammoth to help transport large amounts of resources.
One common mistake is underestimating the amount of resources needed. Volcanic regions are harsh, and your base may require frequent repairs. Always gather more materials than you think youÔÇÖll need. Another mistake is building too close to lava or ash sources. Even with resistant materials, constant exposure will wear down your structures over time. Always maintain a safe distance.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures, which are highly resistant to environmental hazards. However, Tek requires defeating bosses and accessing late-game content, so it may not be an option for newer players. Another optimization is to use greenhouse structures for growing crops. Greenhouses provide insulation and protection, making them ideal for volcanic areas.
If you are playing in a tribe, assign roles to members for resource gathering, building, and defense. A well-coordinated tribe can build a large, secure base much faster than a solo player. Solo players should focus on smaller, more efficient designs to conserve resources and reduce the risk of being overwhelmed.
In summary, building a base resistant to volcanic ash in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, durable materials, and strategic location choices. Use stone or metal structures, gather ample resources, and avoid common mistakes like building too close to hazards. With proper preparation and resource management, you can create a safe and functional base even in the most dangerous volcanic regions.