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

Building a base resistant to acid fog in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and understanding of the mechanics involved. Acid fog is a unique environmental hazard found in certain areas of the game, such as the Aberration map. It damages players, tamed creatures, and structures over time, making it essential to design a base that can withstand or avoid this threat. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you create a base that is resistant to acid fog.

First, you need to understand how acid fog works. Acid fog is a corrosive mist that deals damage to anything exposed to it. The damage is percentage-based, meaning it will chip away at health over time, regardless of the creature or structureÔÇÖs durability. This makes it particularly dangerous for both players and tamed dinosaurs. To counter this, you need to build your base in a way that minimizes exposure to the fog or uses materials and structures that can resist its effects.

Step one is choosing the right location. Acid fog is not present everywhere on the Aberration map, so selecting a safe zone is crucial. Areas like the Fertile Zone or the Edge of the map are generally free from acid fog. However, if you must build in a fog-prone area, consider elevated locations or caves, as these often provide natural protection. Building on high ground or inside a cave can shield your base from the fog, as it tends to settle in lower areas.

Step two involves selecting the right materials. While no structure is completely immune to acid fog, certain materials are more durable and can withstand the damage longer. Metal structures are the best choice for building in acid fog zones. They have high durability and resist environmental damage better than wood or stone. However, metal is resource-intensive, so youÔÇÖll need to gather a significant amount of metal, cementing paste, and polymer to construct a metal base. Prioritize building walls, ceilings, and floors first to create a fully enclosed space that protects you and your tamed creatures.

Step three is designing your base layout. A compact, fully enclosed base is ideal for minimizing exposure to acid fog. Avoid open-air designs or large windows, as these can allow the fog to seep in. Instead, focus on creating a sealed environment with multiple layers of protection. For example, you can build an outer shell of metal walls and an inner layer of stone or wood for added insulation. This double-layered approach can help reduce the fogÔÇÖs impact on your base.

Step four is managing your resources. Building a metal base requires a lot of materials, so efficient resource gathering is essential. Use tamed dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for mining metal and Doedicurus for gathering stone. Cementing paste can be obtained from chitin or by taming a Beelzebufo to harvest it from insects. Polymer can be gathered from organic sources like Kairuku or crafted using obsidian and cementing paste. Stockpile these resources before starting construction to avoid running out mid-build.

Step five is protecting your tamed creatures. Acid fog can quickly kill your dinosaurs if they are left exposed. Build a secure pen or stable within your base to house your tamed creatures. Ensure the pen is fully enclosed with metal walls and ceilings to prevent the fog from entering. You can also use Tek structures, which are highly resistant to environmental damage, if you have access to them. Additionally, consider using Hazard Suits for yourself and your creatures to reduce damage from the fog.

Common mistakes to avoid include building in low-lying areas without proper protection, using weak materials like thatch or wood, and leaving your base or creatures exposed to the fog. Another mistake is underestimating the resource requirements for a metal base, which can lead to incomplete or poorly constructed defenses. Always plan ahead and gather more resources than you think youÔÇÖll need.

Advanced techniques include using Tek structures, which offer superior durability and resistance to environmental hazards. If you have access to Tek tier, consider building your base with Tek walls, ceilings, and doors. Another optimization is using turrets or plant species X to defend your base from hostile creatures that may wander into the fog zone. These defenses can help protect your base while you focus on other tasks.

For tribes, coordinating resource gathering and construction efforts can make the process faster and more efficient. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person gathering metal, another collecting cementing paste, and a third building the base. Solo players should focus on taming resource-gathering dinosaurs and prioritizing essential structures first, such as walls and a secure pen for their creatures.

In summary, building a base resistant to acid fog in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic design. Choose a safe location, use durable materials like metal, and create a fully enclosed structure to protect yourself and your tamed creatures. Avoid common mistakes, and consider advanced techniques like Tek structures for added durability. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, proper preparation and efficient resource gathering are key to surviving in acid fog zones.