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

Building a base resistant to tornadoes in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and understanding of the game's mechanics. Tornadoes are a natural disaster that can occur on certain maps, such as Scorched Earth and Ragnarok, and they can cause significant damage to structures and scatter items across the area. To create a tornado-resistant base, you need to focus on material durability, base design, and strategic placement.

First, let's discuss the mechanics of tornadoes. Tornadoes in ARK can destroy structures made of weaker materials like thatch and wood, and they can also pick up and scatter items, creatures, and players. However, structures made of stone or metal are more resistant to tornado damage. Therefore, the first step in building a tornado-resistant base is to use stone or metal materials for your structures. Stone is more accessible early in the game, but metal offers the highest durability and is the best choice for long-term protection.

To start building your tornado-resistant base, gather the necessary resources. For a stone base, you will need a lot of stone, wood, and thatch. Stone can be obtained by mining rocks with a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. Wood is gathered from trees, and thatch can be collected from trees or by using a pickaxe on rocks. If you plan to use metal, you will need to gather metal ore, which is found in specific rock nodes, usually in mountainous areas. Smelt the metal ore in a forge to create metal ingots, which are used to craft metal structures.

Once you have the materials, choose a location for your base. Avoid building in areas prone to tornadoes, such as open deserts or flat plains. Instead, look for sheltered areas like valleys, caves, or near cliffs. These locations can provide natural protection against tornadoes. Additionally, consider building near resources like water, metal nodes, and trees to make resource gathering more efficient.

When designing your base, focus on creating a compact and sturdy structure. Large, sprawling bases are more vulnerable to tornado damage. Instead, build a smaller, multi-story base with reinforced walls and ceilings. Use stone or metal foundations to ensure the base is stable. Walls and ceilings should also be made of stone or metal to withstand tornadoes. If you are using stone, consider upgrading to metal as soon as possible for added durability.

To further protect your base, consider building an enclosed area for your dinosaurs and storage. Tornadoes can pick up and scatter tamed creatures and items, so keeping them inside a secure structure will prevent losses. Use stone or metal gates to create a secure pen for your dinosaurs. Additionally, place storage boxes, preserving bins, and other important items inside the base to keep them safe.

Power systems are another important consideration. If you are using generators or other power sources, make sure they are protected inside your base. Tornadoes can damage generators and disrupt your power supply, so placing them in a secure location is essential. If you are using renewable energy sources like wind turbines, ensure they are placed in areas less likely to be affected by tornadoes.

For tribes, coordination is key. Assign roles to tribe members to ensure efficient resource gathering and base construction. One member can focus on gathering stone and wood, while another can gather metal and other resources. Communication is important to avoid duplication of efforts and to ensure the base is built quickly and efficiently. Solo players will need to manage their time and resources carefully, prioritizing the most critical structures first.

Common mistakes to avoid include using weak materials like thatch or wood, building in open areas prone to tornadoes, and neglecting to secure dinosaurs and items. Additionally, avoid overextending your base, as larger structures are more difficult to protect and maintain. Always prioritize upgrading to stronger materials as soon as possible.

Advanced techniques include using turrets and traps to defend your base from both tornadoes and potential intruders. While turrets won't stop a tornado, they can deter other players or creatures from attacking your base during or after a tornado. Additionally, consider using behemoth gates to create a large, secure perimeter around your base. These gates are made of metal and provide excellent protection against both tornadoes and enemy attacks.

In summary, building a tornado-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement. Use stone or metal materials, choose a sheltered location, and design a compact, sturdy structure. Protect your dinosaurs and items by keeping them inside secure enclosures, and ensure your power systems are safe from tornado damage. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, efficient resource gathering and coordination are essential for success. By following these strategies, you can create a base that withstands the destructive force of tornadoes and provides a safe haven in the dangerous world of ARK.