What is the best way to build a base in the extinction cave biome in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base in the Extinction Cave biome in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task. This biome is filled with dangerous creatures, environmental hazards, and limited space, making it a high-risk area for base construction. However, with careful planning and execution, you can create a secure and functional base that serves as a stronghold in this hostile environment.
First, let's discuss the mechanics involved. The Extinction Cave biome is unique due to its confined spaces, verticality, and the presence of aggressive creatures like Rock Elementals, Nameless, and Reaper Kings. The terrain is uneven, with narrow pathways, cliffs, and tight corners, which can make building difficult. You will need to use foundations, pillars, and ceilings to create a stable structure. Additionally, the biome has environmental hazards such as radiation and extreme temperatures, so you must prepare accordingly with hazard suits or Tek armor.
To start, gather the necessary resources. You will need a lot of stone, wood, metal, and cementing paste for basic structures. For advanced defenses, you will also need electronics, polymer, and element. Bring a high-level Ankylosaurus for metal and crystal, a Doedicurus for stone, and a Beaver or Therizinosaur for wood and thatch. Cementing paste can be obtained from beaver dams or by farming chitin and stone in a Mortar and Pestle or Chemistry Bench.
Next, scout the area for a suitable location. Look for a flat or semi-flat area with enough space to build a base but also defensible. Avoid areas with frequent creature spawns or narrow choke points that can trap you. Once you find a spot, clear the area of rocks, trees, and other obstacles. Use a pickaxe or a tame to gather resources while clearing the area.
Begin building your base by placing foundations. Use stone or metal foundations for durability, as wood will not hold up against the biome's threats. If the ground is uneven, use pillars to support the structure. Build walls, ceilings, and doors to enclose the base. Make sure to leave space for essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and beds. For added security, build multiple layers of walls and use turrets or plant species X to defend against intruders.
Power is crucial for advanced defenses and utilities. Use generators or Tek generators to power turrets, lights, and crafting stations. If you are using Tek structures, ensure you have a steady supply of element. Wind turbines are less effective in caves, so generators are the better option.
Resource management is key in this biome. Store your resources in vaults or large storage boxes to protect them from raids. Use preserving bins or refrigerators to store food, and keep a steady supply of water by using water reservoirs or water jars.
For tribe considerations, assign roles to tribe members to streamline resource gathering, building, and defense. Solo players should focus on taming high-level creatures for protection and resource gathering. A high-level Rex or Spino can help defend your base, while a pack of Raptors or Direwolves can deter smaller threats.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to creature spawns, using weak materials like thatch or wood, and neglecting defenses. Always have a backup plan, such as a secondary base or escape route, in case your primary base is compromised.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures for added durability and functionality. Tek forcefields can protect your base from projectiles, while Tek turrets offer superior firepower. You can also use cryopods to store and deploy tames quickly in case of an attack.
In summary, building a base in the Extinction Cave biome requires careful planning, resource management, and strong defenses. Use durable materials, clear the area of threats, and secure your base with turrets and tames. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, always be prepared for the challenges this biome presents. With the right strategy, you can create a formidable base that stands strong against the dangers of the Extinction Cave.
First, let's discuss the mechanics involved. The Extinction Cave biome is unique due to its confined spaces, verticality, and the presence of aggressive creatures like Rock Elementals, Nameless, and Reaper Kings. The terrain is uneven, with narrow pathways, cliffs, and tight corners, which can make building difficult. You will need to use foundations, pillars, and ceilings to create a stable structure. Additionally, the biome has environmental hazards such as radiation and extreme temperatures, so you must prepare accordingly with hazard suits or Tek armor.
To start, gather the necessary resources. You will need a lot of stone, wood, metal, and cementing paste for basic structures. For advanced defenses, you will also need electronics, polymer, and element. Bring a high-level Ankylosaurus for metal and crystal, a Doedicurus for stone, and a Beaver or Therizinosaur for wood and thatch. Cementing paste can be obtained from beaver dams or by farming chitin and stone in a Mortar and Pestle or Chemistry Bench.
Next, scout the area for a suitable location. Look for a flat or semi-flat area with enough space to build a base but also defensible. Avoid areas with frequent creature spawns or narrow choke points that can trap you. Once you find a spot, clear the area of rocks, trees, and other obstacles. Use a pickaxe or a tame to gather resources while clearing the area.
Begin building your base by placing foundations. Use stone or metal foundations for durability, as wood will not hold up against the biome's threats. If the ground is uneven, use pillars to support the structure. Build walls, ceilings, and doors to enclose the base. Make sure to leave space for essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and beds. For added security, build multiple layers of walls and use turrets or plant species X to defend against intruders.
Power is crucial for advanced defenses and utilities. Use generators or Tek generators to power turrets, lights, and crafting stations. If you are using Tek structures, ensure you have a steady supply of element. Wind turbines are less effective in caves, so generators are the better option.
Resource management is key in this biome. Store your resources in vaults or large storage boxes to protect them from raids. Use preserving bins or refrigerators to store food, and keep a steady supply of water by using water reservoirs or water jars.
For tribe considerations, assign roles to tribe members to streamline resource gathering, building, and defense. Solo players should focus on taming high-level creatures for protection and resource gathering. A high-level Rex or Spino can help defend your base, while a pack of Raptors or Direwolves can deter smaller threats.
Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to creature spawns, using weak materials like thatch or wood, and neglecting defenses. Always have a backup plan, such as a secondary base or escape route, in case your primary base is compromised.
Advanced techniques include using Tek structures for added durability and functionality. Tek forcefields can protect your base from projectiles, while Tek turrets offer superior firepower. You can also use cryopods to store and deploy tames quickly in case of an attack.
In summary, building a base in the Extinction Cave biome requires careful planning, resource management, and strong defenses. Use durable materials, clear the area of threats, and secure your base with turrets and tames. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, always be prepared for the challenges this biome presents. With the right strategy, you can create a formidable base that stands strong against the dangers of the Extinction Cave.