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 Volcano biome on The Island or the Ashlands on Scorched Earth. This ash can damage structures and harm players and dinosaurs over time. To create a base that can withstand this environmental threat, 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. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are highly vulnerable to damage. Stone structures are a good starting point, but metal is the best option for long-term durability. Metal structures are immune to most environmental damage, including volcanic ash, and provide the highest level of protection. However, metal is more resource-intensive to gather and craft, so you will need to prepare accordingly.
To begin, gather the necessary resources. For stone structures, you will need a lot of stone, wood, and thatch. Stone can be collected by mining rocks with a pickaxe or a dinosaur like the Ankylosaurus. Wood is obtained by chopping trees, and thatch can be gathered from trees or plants. For metal structures, you will need metal ingots, which are crafted by smelting metal ore in a forge. Metal ore is found in rocks, particularly in mountainous areas. You will also need a significant amount of wood or charcoal to fuel the forge. Additionally, crafting metal structures requires cementing paste, which can be made from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams.
Once you have the resources, choose a location for your base. Avoid building directly in the path of volcanic ash or lava flows. Instead, find a spot that is elevated or shielded from the ash. Building on higher ground can reduce the amount of ash that reaches your base. If you are on a map with active volcanoes, ensure your base is outside the eruption zone. Use the terrain to your advantage by placing your base behind natural barriers like cliffs or large rocks.
When designing your base, prioritize durability and functionality. Start with a strong foundation using stone or metal foundations. Build walls, ceilings, and doors using the same durable materials. Consider adding multiple layers of walls for extra protection. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your members to gather resources and build efficiently. Solo players may need to focus on smaller, more manageable structures initially.
To further protect your base, consider adding defensive structures like turrets or plant species X. These can help deter hostile creatures or players who might try to raid your base. Additionally, taming dinosaurs like the Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus can make resource gathering much easier, allowing you to build and upgrade your base more quickly.
One common mistake is underestimating the amount of resources needed. Metal structures require a lot of metal ingots and cementing paste, so plan ahead and gather more than you think you will need. Another mistake is building too close to hazardous areas. Always scout the area thoroughly before starting construction.
Advanced techniques include using greenhouse structures to grow crops indoors, as volcanic ash can damage outdoor crops. You can also use air conditioners or other climate control devices to maintain a stable environment inside your base. If you have access to Tek-tier structures, these provide the highest level of durability and protection, but they require advanced resources and engrams.
In summary, building a base resistant to volcanic ash involves using durable materials like stone or metal, choosing a safe location, and designing a functional and defensible structure. Gather resources efficiently, avoid common mistakes, and consider advanced techniques to optimize your base. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and resource management are key to creating a safe and resilient base in ARK: Survival Evolved.
First, the choice of building materials is critical. Stone and metal structures are the most resistant to environmental hazards like volcanic ash. Avoid using thatch or wood, as these materials are highly vulnerable to damage. Stone structures are a good starting point, but metal is the best option for long-term durability. Metal structures are immune to most environmental damage, including volcanic ash, and provide the highest level of protection. However, metal is more resource-intensive to gather and craft, so you will need to prepare accordingly.
To begin, gather the necessary resources. For stone structures, you will need a lot of stone, wood, and thatch. Stone can be collected by mining rocks with a pickaxe or a dinosaur like the Ankylosaurus. Wood is obtained by chopping trees, and thatch can be gathered from trees or plants. For metal structures, you will need metal ingots, which are crafted by smelting metal ore in a forge. Metal ore is found in rocks, particularly in mountainous areas. You will also need a significant amount of wood or charcoal to fuel the forge. Additionally, crafting metal structures requires cementing paste, which can be made from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams.
Once you have the resources, choose a location for your base. Avoid building directly in the path of volcanic ash or lava flows. Instead, find a spot that is elevated or shielded from the ash. Building on higher ground can reduce the amount of ash that reaches your base. If you are on a map with active volcanoes, ensure your base is outside the eruption zone. Use the terrain to your advantage by placing your base behind natural barriers like cliffs or large rocks.
When designing your base, prioritize durability and functionality. Start with a strong foundation using stone or metal foundations. Build walls, ceilings, and doors using the same durable materials. Consider adding multiple layers of walls for extra protection. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your members to gather resources and build efficiently. Solo players may need to focus on smaller, more manageable structures initially.
To further protect your base, consider adding defensive structures like turrets or plant species X. These can help deter hostile creatures or players who might try to raid your base. Additionally, taming dinosaurs like the Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus can make resource gathering much easier, allowing you to build and upgrade your base more quickly.
One common mistake is underestimating the amount of resources needed. Metal structures require a lot of metal ingots and cementing paste, so plan ahead and gather more than you think you will need. Another mistake is building too close to hazardous areas. Always scout the area thoroughly before starting construction.
Advanced techniques include using greenhouse structures to grow crops indoors, as volcanic ash can damage outdoor crops. You can also use air conditioners or other climate control devices to maintain a stable environment inside your base. If you have access to Tek-tier structures, these provide the highest level of durability and protection, but they require advanced resources and engrams.
In summary, building a base resistant to volcanic ash involves using durable materials like stone or metal, choosing a safe location, and designing a functional and defensible structure. Gather resources efficiently, avoid common mistakes, and consider advanced techniques to optimize your base. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and resource management are key to creating a safe and resilient base in ARK: Survival Evolved.