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 Genesis Part 1 and Extinction, and they can cause significant damage to your base if not properly prepared for. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you build a lightning-resistant base.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand how lightning storms work. During a lightning storm, random strikes can hit structures, creatures, and players. These strikes can destroy weaker materials like thatch and wood, and even damage stone structures. Metal structures, however, are highly resistant to lightning damage, making them the best choice for building in lightning-prone areas. Additionally, lightning strikes can cause fires, which can spread and destroy nearby flammable materials.

To start building a lightning-resistant base, prioritize using metal structures. Metal walls, ceilings, and foundations are essential for creating a durable base. While metal is more resource-intensive to gather and craft compared to wood or stone, it provides the best protection against lightning. YouÔÇÖll need a lot of metal ingots, which are crafted by smelting metal ore in a forge. To gather metal ore efficiently, use a high-level Ankylosaurus or a metal pickaxe on metal-rich nodes found in mountainous areas or caves.

Once you have enough metal, begin constructing your base. Start with a solid foundation of metal foundations to ensure stability. Build metal walls and ceilings to enclose your base completely. Make sure there are no gaps or weak points where lightning could strike and cause damage. If youÔÇÖre building in a multi-story structure, reinforce each floor with metal to prevent collapse in case of a strike.

Lightning storms can also affect your power systems. If youÔÇÖre using electrical devices like turrets, lights, or crafting stations, protect them by placing them inside your metal base. Avoid using thatch or wood for any part of your power system, as these materials are highly flammable and can be destroyed by lightning. Instead, use metal conduits and cables to connect your devices to a generator or other power source. If possible, place your generator inside the base to shield it from lightning strikes.

Another important consideration is the placement of your base. Avoid building in open areas or on high ground where lightning is more likely to strike. Instead, choose a location that offers natural protection, such as a valley or a cave. If you must build in an exposed area, consider adding lightning rods to divert strikes away from your base. Lightning rods can be crafted using metal and placed strategically around your base to absorb lightning strikes and protect your structures.

When it comes to resource management, plan ahead to ensure you have enough materials to build and maintain your base. Metal is the most critical resource, but youÔÇÖll also need cementing paste for crafting metal structures. Cementing paste can be obtained by combining chitin or keratin with stone in a mortar and pestle, or by harvesting it from beaver dams. Additionally, stockpile other essential resources like fiber, thatch, and wood for crafting tools and other items.

For solo players, building a lightning-resistant base can be challenging due to the high resource requirements. Focus on gathering metal and cementing paste early in the game, and consider taming creatures like the Ankylosaurus and Doedicurus to help with resource collection. For tribes, divide tasks among members to speed up the process. Assign some players to gather metal, others to collect cementing paste, and others to craft and build the base.

Common mistakes to avoid include using flammable materials like wood or thatch in your base, building in exposed areas without protection, and neglecting to reinforce your power systems. Always prioritize metal structures and place your base in a location that minimizes the risk of lightning strikes. Additionally, avoid overextending your resources by building too large of a base too quickly. Start small and expand as you gather more materials.

Advanced techniques include using tek structures, which are highly resistant to lightning and other environmental hazards. Tek structures require element to craft, which can be obtained by defeating bosses or completing missions on certain maps. If you have access to tek, consider using it to build your base for maximum protection. Another optimization is to use greenhouse structures for farming, as they are made of glass and metal and are less likely to be damaged by lightning.

In summary, building a lightning-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and the use of metal structures. Prioritize gathering metal and cementing paste, build in a protected location, and reinforce your power systems. Avoid common mistakes like using flammable materials or building in exposed areas. With these strategies, you can create a durable base that withstands lightning storms and keeps you safe in the dangerous world of ARK.