What is the best way to build a base in the underwater cave biome in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base in the underwater cave biome in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. This biome offers unique advantages, such as natural defenses and access to valuable resources, but it also comes with significant risks, including hostile creatures and limited oxygen. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you establish a secure and functional underwater base.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of building underwater. Unlike land-based structures, underwater bases require careful planning due to the environment. You will need to use stone or metal structures, as wood is not durable enough to withstand the pressure and potential attacks from underwater creatures. Additionally, you must account for oxygen management. While you can use SCUBA gear or tame aquatic creatures like the Ichthyosaurus for extended underwater exploration, your base will need a reliable oxygen source. This can be achieved by placing air tanks or using Tek structures, which provide oxygen automatically.
To start, gather the necessary resources. You will need a significant amount of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone can be mined from rocks, while metal is found in metal nodes, often located in mountainous areas. Cementing paste can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams. Prepare these materials in advance, as underwater resource gathering is more difficult. You should also craft a few water jars or canteens to stay hydrated during the construction process.
Next, scout the underwater cave biome for a suitable location. Look for a spot that is relatively flat and has enough space for your base. Avoid areas with high concentrations of hostile creatures like Megalodons or Eels. Once youÔÇÖve chosen a location, begin by placing foundations. Use stone or metal foundations to ensure durability. Build walls and ceilings to enclose the area, creating a secure space. Remember to leave openings for doors or gates, which will allow you to enter and exit the base.
Oxygen management is critical. If you donÔÇÖt have access to Tek structures, place air tanks inside your base. These can be crafted using polymer and metal ingots. Alternatively, you can tame a Basilosaurus, which provides a bubble of oxygen around it, making it easier to breathe underwater. Another option is to use underwater air pockets, which are naturally occurring areas where you can breathe without SCUBA gear. Building near these air pockets can save you resources.
Defense is another important consideration. Underwater caves are often frequented by hostile creatures, so you need to protect your base. Place plant species X turrets around the perimeter, as they can fire underwater. Tame aquatic creatures like Tusoteuthis or Mosasaurs to guard your base. These creatures are powerful and can deter most threats. Additionally, consider building a perimeter wall or fence to keep smaller creatures out.
Resource management is crucial for maintaining your base. Set up storage boxes and preserving bins to store your supplies. Use a fabricator or industrial forge to process metal and other materials efficiently. If you have access to electricity, place a generator and connect it to refrigerators and other appliances to keep your food fresh.
When building in a tribe, assign roles to each member to streamline the process. One player can focus on gathering resources, while another handles construction. Communication is key, especially when dealing with the challenges of underwater building. Solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency, focusing on smaller, more manageable structures.
Common mistakes to avoid include using wood structures, which are easily destroyed, and neglecting oxygen management. Always carry extra SCUBA gear or oxygen tanks in case of emergencies. Another mistake is building too close to hostile creatures, which can lead to constant attacks. Always scout the area thoroughly before starting construction.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures for better durability and functionality. Tek generators provide unlimited power, and Tek forcefields can protect your base from intruders. Additionally, consider building multiple layers of walls for added security. Use underwater elevators or teleporters for quick access to different parts of your base.
In summary, building a base in the underwater cave biome requires careful planning, resource management, and defense strategies. Use stone or metal structures, manage oxygen levels, and protect your base with turrets and tamed creatures. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, communication and preparation are key to success. With the right approach, you can create a secure and functional underwater base that serves as a hub for exploration and resource gathering.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of building underwater. Unlike land-based structures, underwater bases require careful planning due to the environment. You will need to use stone or metal structures, as wood is not durable enough to withstand the pressure and potential attacks from underwater creatures. Additionally, you must account for oxygen management. While you can use SCUBA gear or tame aquatic creatures like the Ichthyosaurus for extended underwater exploration, your base will need a reliable oxygen source. This can be achieved by placing air tanks or using Tek structures, which provide oxygen automatically.
To start, gather the necessary resources. You will need a significant amount of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone can be mined from rocks, while metal is found in metal nodes, often located in mountainous areas. Cementing paste can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams. Prepare these materials in advance, as underwater resource gathering is more difficult. You should also craft a few water jars or canteens to stay hydrated during the construction process.
Next, scout the underwater cave biome for a suitable location. Look for a spot that is relatively flat and has enough space for your base. Avoid areas with high concentrations of hostile creatures like Megalodons or Eels. Once youÔÇÖve chosen a location, begin by placing foundations. Use stone or metal foundations to ensure durability. Build walls and ceilings to enclose the area, creating a secure space. Remember to leave openings for doors or gates, which will allow you to enter and exit the base.
Oxygen management is critical. If you donÔÇÖt have access to Tek structures, place air tanks inside your base. These can be crafted using polymer and metal ingots. Alternatively, you can tame a Basilosaurus, which provides a bubble of oxygen around it, making it easier to breathe underwater. Another option is to use underwater air pockets, which are naturally occurring areas where you can breathe without SCUBA gear. Building near these air pockets can save you resources.
Defense is another important consideration. Underwater caves are often frequented by hostile creatures, so you need to protect your base. Place plant species X turrets around the perimeter, as they can fire underwater. Tame aquatic creatures like Tusoteuthis or Mosasaurs to guard your base. These creatures are powerful and can deter most threats. Additionally, consider building a perimeter wall or fence to keep smaller creatures out.
Resource management is crucial for maintaining your base. Set up storage boxes and preserving bins to store your supplies. Use a fabricator or industrial forge to process metal and other materials efficiently. If you have access to electricity, place a generator and connect it to refrigerators and other appliances to keep your food fresh.
When building in a tribe, assign roles to each member to streamline the process. One player can focus on gathering resources, while another handles construction. Communication is key, especially when dealing with the challenges of underwater building. Solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency, focusing on smaller, more manageable structures.
Common mistakes to avoid include using wood structures, which are easily destroyed, and neglecting oxygen management. Always carry extra SCUBA gear or oxygen tanks in case of emergencies. Another mistake is building too close to hostile creatures, which can lead to constant attacks. Always scout the area thoroughly before starting construction.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures for better durability and functionality. Tek generators provide unlimited power, and Tek forcefields can protect your base from intruders. Additionally, consider building multiple layers of walls for added security. Use underwater elevators or teleporters for quick access to different parts of your base.
In summary, building a base in the underwater cave biome requires careful planning, resource management, and defense strategies. Use stone or metal structures, manage oxygen levels, and protect your base with turrets and tamed creatures. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, communication and preparation are key to success. With the right approach, you can create a secure and functional underwater base that serves as a hub for exploration and resource gathering.