How do I create a hidden base in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Creating a hidden base in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical strategy for both solo players and tribes, especially in PvP environments where visibility can lead to raids and destruction. The goal is to make your base as inconspicuous as possible while maintaining functionality and security. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of base building and how structures interact with the environment. ARK allows players to build structures on uneven terrain, inside caves, underwater, and even on the backs of certain creatures like the Paracer or Brontosaurus. The key to a hidden base is leveraging these mechanics to blend your structures into the natural surroundings. For example, building inside dense forests, behind waterfalls, or in remote caves can make your base harder to spot. Additionally, using natural terrain features like cliffs, rocks, and trees to obscure your base from view is essential.
To start, scout the map for a location that offers natural cover. Look for areas with dense foliage, large rocks, or hidden caves. Avoid high-traffic areas like resource-rich zones or near popular spawn points, as these are more likely to be explored by other players. Once youÔÇÖve chosen a location, gather the necessary resources. YouÔÇÖll need wood, stone, fiber, and thatch for early-game structures, but aim to upgrade to metal as soon as possible for better durability. Metal structures are harder to destroy and less visible than wood or stone, making them ideal for hidden bases.
When building, keep your structures compact and avoid large, flat surfaces that can be easily spotted from a distance. Use ramps, sloped roofs, and irregular shapes to blend your base into the terrain. For example, building a small, multi-level structure inside a dense forest can make it nearly invisible from the air or ground. Additionally, avoid placing torches or other light sources outside, as these can give away your location at night. Instead, use electric lights powered by a generator inside your base.
One advanced technique is to build underwater or in hard-to-reach caves. Underwater bases require scuba gear or aquatic tames like the Megalodon or Basilosaurus for access, making them less likely to be discovered. Cave bases are also effective, but be aware that many caves have built-in restrictions, such as no building in certain areas or limited space. Always check the caveÔÇÖs rules before committing to a build. Another advanced strategy is to use cliff platforms or tree platforms, which allow you to build in elevated or hard-to-reach locations. These platforms can be hidden among the trees or on the side of cliffs, making them difficult to spot.
Resource management is crucial for maintaining a hidden base. Store your resources in hidden compartments or vaults to prevent them from being looted if your base is discovered. Use preserving bins or refrigerators to store perishable items, and keep a backup stash of essential resources in a separate, even more hidden location. This ensures that even if your main base is compromised, you wonÔÇÖt lose everything.
For tribes, coordination is key. Assign roles to tribe members, such as builders, gatherers, and defenders, to ensure the base is constructed efficiently and securely. Use tribe-owned tames for resource gathering and defense, and set up a system for sharing resources and responsibilities. Solo players should focus on small, efficient builds and prioritize stealth over size. Avoid drawing attention to your base by limiting activity in the area, such as excessive taming or resource gathering.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to popular areas, using bright or reflective materials, and leaving obvious trails or signs of activity. For example, cutting down too many trees or leaving footprints near your base can alert other players to your presence. Always clear any evidence of your activity, such as tree stumps or rock debris, and avoid creating paths that lead directly to your base.
In summary, creating a hidden base in ARK requires careful planning, resource management, and a deep understanding of the gameÔÇÖs building mechanics. Choose a remote location, use natural cover, and build compact, durable structures. Advanced techniques like underwater or cave bases can further enhance your stealth, while proper resource management and tribe coordination ensure long-term survival. By following these strategies, you can create a hidden base that remains secure and undetected, giving you a significant advantage in the dangerous world of ARK.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of base building and how structures interact with the environment. ARK allows players to build structures on uneven terrain, inside caves, underwater, and even on the backs of certain creatures like the Paracer or Brontosaurus. The key to a hidden base is leveraging these mechanics to blend your structures into the natural surroundings. For example, building inside dense forests, behind waterfalls, or in remote caves can make your base harder to spot. Additionally, using natural terrain features like cliffs, rocks, and trees to obscure your base from view is essential.
To start, scout the map for a location that offers natural cover. Look for areas with dense foliage, large rocks, or hidden caves. Avoid high-traffic areas like resource-rich zones or near popular spawn points, as these are more likely to be explored by other players. Once youÔÇÖve chosen a location, gather the necessary resources. YouÔÇÖll need wood, stone, fiber, and thatch for early-game structures, but aim to upgrade to metal as soon as possible for better durability. Metal structures are harder to destroy and less visible than wood or stone, making them ideal for hidden bases.
When building, keep your structures compact and avoid large, flat surfaces that can be easily spotted from a distance. Use ramps, sloped roofs, and irregular shapes to blend your base into the terrain. For example, building a small, multi-level structure inside a dense forest can make it nearly invisible from the air or ground. Additionally, avoid placing torches or other light sources outside, as these can give away your location at night. Instead, use electric lights powered by a generator inside your base.
One advanced technique is to build underwater or in hard-to-reach caves. Underwater bases require scuba gear or aquatic tames like the Megalodon or Basilosaurus for access, making them less likely to be discovered. Cave bases are also effective, but be aware that many caves have built-in restrictions, such as no building in certain areas or limited space. Always check the caveÔÇÖs rules before committing to a build. Another advanced strategy is to use cliff platforms or tree platforms, which allow you to build in elevated or hard-to-reach locations. These platforms can be hidden among the trees or on the side of cliffs, making them difficult to spot.
Resource management is crucial for maintaining a hidden base. Store your resources in hidden compartments or vaults to prevent them from being looted if your base is discovered. Use preserving bins or refrigerators to store perishable items, and keep a backup stash of essential resources in a separate, even more hidden location. This ensures that even if your main base is compromised, you wonÔÇÖt lose everything.
For tribes, coordination is key. Assign roles to tribe members, such as builders, gatherers, and defenders, to ensure the base is constructed efficiently and securely. Use tribe-owned tames for resource gathering and defense, and set up a system for sharing resources and responsibilities. Solo players should focus on small, efficient builds and prioritize stealth over size. Avoid drawing attention to your base by limiting activity in the area, such as excessive taming or resource gathering.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to popular areas, using bright or reflective materials, and leaving obvious trails or signs of activity. For example, cutting down too many trees or leaving footprints near your base can alert other players to your presence. Always clear any evidence of your activity, such as tree stumps or rock debris, and avoid creating paths that lead directly to your base.
In summary, creating a hidden base in ARK requires careful planning, resource management, and a deep understanding of the gameÔÇÖs building mechanics. Choose a remote location, use natural cover, and build compact, durable structures. Advanced techniques like underwater or cave bases can further enhance your stealth, while proper resource management and tribe coordination ensure long-term survival. By following these strategies, you can create a hidden base that remains secure and undetected, giving you a significant advantage in the dangerous world of ARK.