How do I build a base that is safe from flyers in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Building a base that is safe from flyers in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, strategic placement, and the use of advanced defensive structures. Flyers, such as Pteranodons, Argentavis, and Wyverns, can pose a significant threat to your base, especially in PvP scenarios or when dealing with aggressive wild creatures. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you create a secure base that can withstand aerial threats.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of flyers and how they interact with your base. Flyers can bypass ground-based defenses like walls and gates, making it essential to focus on vertical protection. They can also carry smaller creatures or players, which can be used to infiltrate your base. To counter this, you need to build structures that limit their ability to land or attack from above. This includes using ceilings, turrets, and enclosed spaces to create a secure environment.

Start by choosing a location that is naturally defensible. High cliffs, caves, or areas surrounded by water can make it harder for flyers to approach your base. If youÔÇÖre building in an open area, consider constructing a multi-level base with a roof to prevent flyers from landing on top. Use stone or metal materials for your walls and ceilings, as these provide better durability against attacks. Thatch and wood structures are easily destroyed by flyers and should be avoided for critical defenses.

Next, focus on building a solid foundation. Place walls around the perimeter of your base, extending them high enough to prevent flyers from easily flying over. Add ceilings or roofs to cover the entire base, ensuring there are no gaps for flyers to exploit. If youÔÇÖre building in a cave, make sure to seal off any openings with walls or gates to prevent flyers from entering.

To further enhance your baseÔÇÖs defenses, install turrets. Auto-turrets and heavy turrets are highly effective against flyers, as they can shoot them down before they reach your base. Place turrets on the roof and around the perimeter, ensuring they have a clear line of sight. Use a combination of plant species X (which can slow down and damage flyers) and turrets for layered defense. Power your turrets with generators or renewable energy sources like wind turbines, and make sure to stockpile plenty of ammunition.

Another important strategy is to use tamed creatures for defense. Flying creatures like Argentavis or Wyverns can patrol the skies around your base, attacking any hostile flyers. Ground-based creatures like Rexes or Spinos can also deter flyers from landing. Place these creatures on aggressive or turret mode to automatically defend your base. Be mindful of their placement to avoid them being lured away or killed by stronger enemies.

Resource management is crucial when building a flyer-proof base. Gather large amounts of stone, metal, and cementing paste to construct durable walls and ceilings. Use a metal pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus to mine metal efficiently, and a Doedicurus to gather stone. Cementing paste can be obtained from beaver dams or by crafting it using chitin and stone in a mortar and pestle. Stockpile these resources before starting your build to avoid running out mid-construction.

For solo players, focus on building a compact base with strong defenses. A smaller base is easier to protect and requires fewer resources. Use turrets and tamed creatures to compensate for the lack of tribe members. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, divide tasks among members to speed up resource gathering and construction. Assign roles such as gathering materials, building structures, and taming defensive creatures to maximize efficiency.

Common mistakes to avoid include leaving gaps in your defenses, using weak materials, and neglecting turret placement. Always double-check your base for vulnerabilities, such as open ceilings or unpowered turrets. Avoid building too close to spawn points or popular flyer routes, as this increases the likelihood of attacks. Additionally, donÔÇÖt underestimate the importance of hidden storage. Use vaults or hidden compartments to store valuable items, as flyers can sometimes bypass defenses and steal resources.

Advanced techniques include using tek structures for added durability and functionality. Tek walls, ceilings, and turrets offer superior protection and can be powered by tek generators. If you have access to tek tier, consider building a tek forcefield around your base to block flyers entirely. Another optimization is to use cryopods to store and deploy defensive creatures quickly, allowing you to adapt to threats on the fly.

In summary, building a base safe from flyers in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of strategic location, durable materials, and layered defenses. Use stone or metal structures, install turrets, and employ tamed creatures to protect your base. Manage resources efficiently, avoid common mistakes, and consider advanced techniques like tek structures for optimal security. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you create a base that can withstand aerial threats and keep your resources safe.