What are the best ways to use ramps and stairs in base design in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Ramps and stairs are essential components of base design in ARK: Survival Evolved, offering both functional and strategic advantages. They allow players to create multi-level structures, improve accessibility, and enhance the overall layout of their base. Understanding how to use them effectively can make your base more efficient, secure, and adaptable to different situations.

To begin with, ramps and stairs serve different purposes. Ramps are ideal for creating gradual inclines, making it easier for players and dinosaurs to move between levels. Stairs, on the other hand, are more compact and better suited for vertical movement in tight spaces. When designing your base, consider the size and type of dinosaurs you plan to house. Larger dinosaurs like Brontosaurus or Rexes will require wider ramps or open pathways, while smaller creatures can navigate stairs or narrower ramps.

When building ramps, start by placing a foundation or floor piece at the desired starting point. Attach the ramp to the edge of the foundation, ensuring it slopes upward. You can stack multiple ramps to create longer inclines, but be mindful of the angle to prevent dinosaurs from getting stuck. For stairs, place a foundation and then attach the stairs to the side or edge. Stairs can be stacked vertically to create multi-level structures, but each set of stairs requires a landing platform to connect them.

One important tip is to use ramps and stairs to create defensive choke points. For example, you can design your base entrance with a narrow ramp leading up to a gate. This forces potential attackers to funnel through a single path, making it easier to defend with turrets or traps. Additionally, ramps can be used to create elevated platforms for turrets or sniper positions, giving you a tactical advantage during raids.

Resource management is crucial when building ramps and stairs. Wooden ramps and stairs are the easiest to craft but offer the least durability. Stone and metal variants provide better protection but require more resources. Always gather extra materials to account for mistakes or future expansions. For example, a large ramp system for a Brontosaurus pen will require significantly more wood or stone than a small staircase for a personal storage room.

Common mistakes include building ramps or stairs that are too steep or narrow, which can cause dinosaurs to get stuck or fail to navigate them. Always test the path with your tamed creatures to ensure they can move freely. Another mistake is neglecting to secure the underside of ramps or stairs. Players can exploit gaps to glitch into your base, so use walls or foundations to block off any open spaces.

Advanced techniques involve combining ramps and stairs with other structures to optimize space and functionality. For example, you can use ramps to create a multi-level greenhouse, with each level providing space for crop plots. Stairs can be integrated into cliffside bases, allowing you to build vertically while maintaining a compact footprint. Additionally, you can use ramps to create hidden entrances or escape routes, adding an extra layer of security to your base.

For solo players, ramps and stairs are particularly useful for creating compact, efficient bases. A small staircase leading to a second-floor crafting area can save valuable ground space for storage or dinosaur pens. Solo players should also consider using ramps to create elevated taming pens, where you can safely knock out and tame dinosaurs without interference from predators.

In a tribe setting, ramps and stairs can be used to create specialized areas within the base. For example, you can design a ramp system leading to a communal dino pen, while stairs provide access to individual player quarters. Tribes should coordinate their building efforts to ensure that ramps and stairs are placed strategically, avoiding clutter and maximizing efficiency.

Specific examples include using ramps to create a Brontosaurus feeding platform. By building a ramp leading to an elevated platform, you can place feeding troughs at a height that allows the Brontosaurus to eat without requiring you to climb onto its back. Another example is using stairs to create a watchtower with a clear view of your base perimeter, allowing you to spot threats from a distance.

In conclusion, ramps and stairs are versatile tools that can greatly enhance your base design in ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding their mechanics, planning your layout, and considering the needs of your dinosaurs and tribe, you can create a base that is both functional and secure. Always test your designs, gather sufficient resources, and adapt your strategies to suit your playstyle and environment.