How do I create a base with a tek security system in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Creating a base with a Tek Security System in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex but rewarding process that requires advanced knowledge of the game's mechanics, resources, and progression. The Tek Security System is part of the Tek Tier, which is the endgame technology in ARK. To build and use this system, you must first defeat certain bosses to unlock the necessary engrams. Once unlocked, the Tek Security System provides advanced defenses, including force fields, turrets, and alarms, to protect your base from intruders. Below is a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, you need to unlock the Tek Security System engrams. These are obtained by defeating the bosses in the game, such as the Broodmother, Megapithecus, Dragon, and Overseer. Each boss drops specific Tekgrams, and you will need to defeat multiple bosses to unlock all the components of the Tek Security System. For example, the Tek Forcefield is unlocked by defeating the Dragon, while the Tek Turret is unlocked by defeating the Overseer. Make sure to prepare thoroughly for these boss fights by taming strong dinosaurs like Rexes, Therizinosaurs, and Yutyrannus, and equipping them with high-quality saddles and weapons.

Once you have unlocked the necessary engrams, you will need to gather the resources required to craft the Tek Security System components. These resources include Element, which is obtained by defeating bosses or crafting it in a Tek Replicator, as well as other materials like Metal Ingots, Crystal, Polymer, and Electronics. Element is the most critical resource, as it powers all Tek structures. You will also need a Tek Generator to provide power to your Tek Security System. The Tek Generator requires Element Shards, which are crafted from Element, to function.

To build the Tek Security System, start by placing a Tek Generator in a secure location within your base. The Tek Generator has a large power radius, so you can place it centrally to cover most of your base. Next, place the Tek Forcefield around the perimeter of your base. The forcefield will block all incoming projectiles and creatures, providing a strong first line of defense. You can adjust the size and shape of the forcefield to fit your base layout. After setting up the forcefield, place Tek Turrets at strategic locations around your base. These turrets are highly effective at targeting and eliminating intruders, including flying creatures. Finally, you can add a Tek Alarm to alert you of any breaches or attacks on your base.

When building your base with a Tek Security System, there are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, ensure that your base is well-protected with multiple layers of defense. While the Tek Security System is powerful, it should be used in conjunction with other defenses like metal walls, gates, and regular turrets. Second, manage your Element usage carefully. The Tek Generator consumes Element Shards over time, so make sure you have a steady supply of Element to keep your defenses active. Third, consider the placement of your Tek structures. The Tek Forcefield should cover all vulnerable areas of your base, and the Tek Turrets should have clear lines of sight to potential entry points.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the resource requirements for the Tek Security System. Gathering enough Element and other materials can be time-consuming, so plan ahead and stockpile resources before starting the build. Another mistake is placing the Tek Generator in an exposed location. If the generator is destroyed, your entire Tek Security System will go offline, leaving your base vulnerable. Always protect the generator with strong walls and additional defenses.

Advanced techniques for optimizing your Tek Security System include using a combination of Tek and regular turrets to cover all angles of attack. Regular turrets can be set to target different types of threats, such as players or creatures, while Tek Turrets are more versatile and can target both. You can also use Tek Sensors to automate your defenses, triggering the forcefield and turrets only when an intruder is detected. This can help conserve Element and extend the lifespan of your Tek Generator.

Resource requirements for a Tek Security System are substantial. You will need hundreds of Element Shards, thousands of Metal Ingots, and large amounts of Crystal, Polymer, and Electronics. Prepare by farming these resources in bulk and storing them in secure vaults. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your tribe members to divide the workload and gather resources more efficiently. Solo players will need to focus on taming high-level resource-gathering dinosaurs like Ankylosaurs for metal and Doedicurus for stone.

In conclusion, building a base with a Tek Security System in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but achievable goal. By defeating bosses to unlock the necessary engrams, gathering the required resources, and carefully planning your base layout, you can create a highly secure and advanced base. Remember to use multiple layers of defense, manage your Element usage, and protect your Tek Generator at all costs. With proper preparation and strategy, your base will be nearly impenetrable, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the game like exploration, taming, and progression.