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's mechanics. Volcanic ash is a hazard found in certain areas, such as the volcanic biome on the Extinction map or the lava zones in Aberration. This ash can damage structures and harm players or dinosaurs if not properly managed. To create a base that can withstand these conditions, you need to focus on material selection, base design, and resource management.
First, the choice of building materials is critical. Stone and metal structures are the most resistant to environmental hazards like volcanic ash. Thatched and wooden structures are not suitable because they are highly flammable and can be destroyed easily. Metal structures are the best option for long-term durability, as they are immune to fire and most environmental damage. However, metal is resource-intensive, so you may need to start with stone and upgrade later. To gather stone, you can use a pickaxe or a metal hatchet on rocks. For metal, you will need to mine metal nodes, which are often found in mountainous or volcanic areas. Be prepared to transport large amounts of these resources, as building a secure base will require a significant amount of materials.
Next, consider the location of your base. Avoid building directly in the path of volcanic ash or lava flows. Look for elevated areas or natural barriers that can shield your base from direct exposure. If you must build near a volcano, ensure your base is surrounded by stone or metal walls to block the ash. Additionally, place your base on a foundation to prevent damage from ground-based hazards. Foundations also provide stability and allow you to build multiple levels, which can be useful for organizing your base and creating safe zones for your dinosaurs.
When designing your base, prioritize ventilation and access. Volcanic ash can accumulate inside your base if it is not properly ventilated, causing damage over time. Use windows or open ceilings to allow ash to disperse. However, be cautious of leaving openings that could allow hostile creatures or players to enter. Install doors and gates with strong locks to secure your base. For added protection, consider using turrets or tamed dinosaurs to guard the perimeter. Carnivores like Rexes or Spinos can deter intruders, while herbivores like Parasaurs can provide early warning with their radar ability.
Resource management is another key aspect of building a volcanic ash-resistant base. Stockpile materials like stone, metal, and cementing paste in advance. Cementing paste is essential for crafting metal structures and can be obtained by combining chitin or keratin with stone in a mortar and pestle or by harvesting it from beaver dams. You will also need a steady supply of fuel for your forges and fabricators. Charcoal, obtained by burning wood in a campfire or industrial forge, is a common fuel source. If you are playing on a map with access to oil, consider using gasoline for more efficient power generation.
For solo players, building a volcanic ash-resistant base can be challenging due to the resource requirements. Focus on smaller, more efficient designs and prioritize essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and a safe room for your character. Tame dinosaurs like Ankylosaurs and Doedicurus to help gather stone and metal more efficiently. For tribes, divide tasks among members to speed up resource gathering and construction. Assign roles such as gatherers, builders, and defenders to ensure the base is completed quickly and securely.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to volcanic activity, using flammable materials, and neglecting ventilation. Always scout the area before building to identify potential hazards. Avoid overextending your base, as larger structures require more resources and are harder to defend. Instead, focus on creating a compact, well-protected base with room for expansion.
Advanced techniques include using tek structures, which are highly resistant to environmental damage and offer unique features like force fields and teleporters. However, tek structures require rare resources and advanced engrams, so they are typically end-game options. Another optimization is to use greenhouse structures for ventilation and natural light, as they allow ash to pass through while providing a safe environment for plants and dinosaurs.
In summary, building a base resistant to volcanic ash in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic design. Use stone or metal structures, choose a safe location, and prioritize ventilation and defense. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, efficient resource gathering and division of labor are essential for success. Avoid common mistakes like using flammable materials or building too close to hazards, and consider advanced techniques like tek structures for long-term durability. With these strategies, you can create a secure and functional base capable of withstanding the challenges of volcanic environments.
First, the choice of building materials is critical. Stone and metal structures are the most resistant to environmental hazards like volcanic ash. Thatched and wooden structures are not suitable because they are highly flammable and can be destroyed easily. Metal structures are the best option for long-term durability, as they are immune to fire and most environmental damage. However, metal is resource-intensive, so you may need to start with stone and upgrade later. To gather stone, you can use a pickaxe or a metal hatchet on rocks. For metal, you will need to mine metal nodes, which are often found in mountainous or volcanic areas. Be prepared to transport large amounts of these resources, as building a secure base will require a significant amount of materials.
Next, consider the location of your base. Avoid building directly in the path of volcanic ash or lava flows. Look for elevated areas or natural barriers that can shield your base from direct exposure. If you must build near a volcano, ensure your base is surrounded by stone or metal walls to block the ash. Additionally, place your base on a foundation to prevent damage from ground-based hazards. Foundations also provide stability and allow you to build multiple levels, which can be useful for organizing your base and creating safe zones for your dinosaurs.
When designing your base, prioritize ventilation and access. Volcanic ash can accumulate inside your base if it is not properly ventilated, causing damage over time. Use windows or open ceilings to allow ash to disperse. However, be cautious of leaving openings that could allow hostile creatures or players to enter. Install doors and gates with strong locks to secure your base. For added protection, consider using turrets or tamed dinosaurs to guard the perimeter. Carnivores like Rexes or Spinos can deter intruders, while herbivores like Parasaurs can provide early warning with their radar ability.
Resource management is another key aspect of building a volcanic ash-resistant base. Stockpile materials like stone, metal, and cementing paste in advance. Cementing paste is essential for crafting metal structures and can be obtained by combining chitin or keratin with stone in a mortar and pestle or by harvesting it from beaver dams. You will also need a steady supply of fuel for your forges and fabricators. Charcoal, obtained by burning wood in a campfire or industrial forge, is a common fuel source. If you are playing on a map with access to oil, consider using gasoline for more efficient power generation.
For solo players, building a volcanic ash-resistant base can be challenging due to the resource requirements. Focus on smaller, more efficient designs and prioritize essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and a safe room for your character. Tame dinosaurs like Ankylosaurs and Doedicurus to help gather stone and metal more efficiently. For tribes, divide tasks among members to speed up resource gathering and construction. Assign roles such as gatherers, builders, and defenders to ensure the base is completed quickly and securely.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to volcanic activity, using flammable materials, and neglecting ventilation. Always scout the area before building to identify potential hazards. Avoid overextending your base, as larger structures require more resources and are harder to defend. Instead, focus on creating a compact, well-protected base with room for expansion.
Advanced techniques include using tek structures, which are highly resistant to environmental damage and offer unique features like force fields and teleporters. However, tek structures require rare resources and advanced engrams, so they are typically end-game options. Another optimization is to use greenhouse structures for ventilation and natural light, as they allow ash to pass through while providing a safe environment for plants and dinosaurs.
In summary, building a base resistant to volcanic ash in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic design. Use stone or metal structures, choose a safe location, and prioritize ventilation and defense. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, efficient resource gathering and division of labor are essential for success. Avoid common mistakes like using flammable materials or building too close to hazards, and consider advanced techniques like tek structures for long-term durability. With these strategies, you can create a secure and functional base capable of withstanding the challenges of volcanic environments.