How do I build a base that is resistant to lightning storms in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base resistant to lightning storms in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and understanding of the game's mechanics. Lightning storms are a unique environmental hazard found on certain maps, such as Extinction and Genesis Part 1, where they can damage structures, destroy electronics, and even harm players and tamed creatures. To create a lightning-resistant base, you need to focus on material selection, power management, and strategic placement of structures and defenses.
First, let's discuss the mechanics of lightning storms. Lightning strikes are random but tend to target structures and creatures that are elevated or exposed. Metal structures are particularly vulnerable because they conduct electricity, which can cause damage to connected systems like generators, cables, and electronics. To mitigate this, you should prioritize using non-conductive materials such as stone or tek for your base's outer shell. Stone structures are less likely to attract lightning and are more durable than wood or thatch. Tek structures, while expensive, are immune to lightning damage and are ideal for advanced players.
Step-by-step, here's how to build a lightning-resistant base. Start by choosing a location that is not on high ground or near tall structures, as these areas are more likely to be struck by lightning. Flat, open areas are generally safer. Once you've selected a location, lay the foundation using stone or tek materials. Build walls, ceilings, and floors with the same materials to create a protective shell around your base. Avoid using metal structures for the exterior, as they increase the risk of lightning damage.
Next, focus on your power system. Lightning can destroy generators and electrical cables, so it's crucial to protect these components. Place your generator indoors, preferably in a stone or tek room, to shield it from direct strikes. Use insulated cables or tek cables to connect your power system, as these are less likely to be damaged by lightning. If you're using wind turbines or solar panels, ensure they are placed in a secure area and surrounded by non-conductive materials. Consider using multiple small generators instead of one large one, as this reduces the risk of losing all your power in a single strike.
For advanced players, tek structures and tek generators are the best options for lightning resistance. Tek generators are immune to lightning and provide a reliable power source, but they require element to operate, which can be challenging to obtain. If you're playing on a map with frequent lightning storms, investing in tek technology is worth the effort.
Resource management is key to building a lightning-resistant base. Stone is relatively easy to gather, but tek structures require rare resources like element, black pearls, and polymer. Plan your resource gathering accordingly, and consider taming creatures like the Doedicurus for stone harvesting or the Ankylosaurus for metal and crystal. Efficient resource gathering ensures you have enough materials to build and maintain your base.
When playing solo, focus on building a compact base with essential structures to minimize resource usage. Prioritize protecting your power system and storage areas, as losing these can set you back significantly. In a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and build defenses more efficiently. Assign roles, such as one player gathering stone while another focuses on taming creatures for resource collection.
Common mistakes to avoid include using metal structures for the exterior, placing generators or electronics in exposed areas, and underestimating the frequency of lightning strikes. Always test your base's defenses by simulating a lightning storm scenario, such as using a lightning wyvern to attack your base. This helps identify weak points and areas that need improvement.
In summary, building a lightning-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved involves using non-conductive materials like stone or tek, protecting your power system, and choosing a safe location. Advanced players should invest in tek technology for maximum protection, while solo players should focus on efficient resource management. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a base that withstands even the most intense lightning storms.
First, let's discuss the mechanics of lightning storms. Lightning strikes are random but tend to target structures and creatures that are elevated or exposed. Metal structures are particularly vulnerable because they conduct electricity, which can cause damage to connected systems like generators, cables, and electronics. To mitigate this, you should prioritize using non-conductive materials such as stone or tek for your base's outer shell. Stone structures are less likely to attract lightning and are more durable than wood or thatch. Tek structures, while expensive, are immune to lightning damage and are ideal for advanced players.
Step-by-step, here's how to build a lightning-resistant base. Start by choosing a location that is not on high ground or near tall structures, as these areas are more likely to be struck by lightning. Flat, open areas are generally safer. Once you've selected a location, lay the foundation using stone or tek materials. Build walls, ceilings, and floors with the same materials to create a protective shell around your base. Avoid using metal structures for the exterior, as they increase the risk of lightning damage.
Next, focus on your power system. Lightning can destroy generators and electrical cables, so it's crucial to protect these components. Place your generator indoors, preferably in a stone or tek room, to shield it from direct strikes. Use insulated cables or tek cables to connect your power system, as these are less likely to be damaged by lightning. If you're using wind turbines or solar panels, ensure they are placed in a secure area and surrounded by non-conductive materials. Consider using multiple small generators instead of one large one, as this reduces the risk of losing all your power in a single strike.
For advanced players, tek structures and tek generators are the best options for lightning resistance. Tek generators are immune to lightning and provide a reliable power source, but they require element to operate, which can be challenging to obtain. If you're playing on a map with frequent lightning storms, investing in tek technology is worth the effort.
Resource management is key to building a lightning-resistant base. Stone is relatively easy to gather, but tek structures require rare resources like element, black pearls, and polymer. Plan your resource gathering accordingly, and consider taming creatures like the Doedicurus for stone harvesting or the Ankylosaurus for metal and crystal. Efficient resource gathering ensures you have enough materials to build and maintain your base.
When playing solo, focus on building a compact base with essential structures to minimize resource usage. Prioritize protecting your power system and storage areas, as losing these can set you back significantly. In a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and build defenses more efficiently. Assign roles, such as one player gathering stone while another focuses on taming creatures for resource collection.
Common mistakes to avoid include using metal structures for the exterior, placing generators or electronics in exposed areas, and underestimating the frequency of lightning strikes. Always test your base's defenses by simulating a lightning storm scenario, such as using a lightning wyvern to attack your base. This helps identify weak points and areas that need improvement.
In summary, building a lightning-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved involves using non-conductive materials like stone or tek, protecting your power system, and choosing a safe location. Advanced players should invest in tek technology for maximum protection, while solo players should focus on efficient resource management. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a base that withstands even the most intense lightning storms.