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

Building a base that is safe from Deathworms in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement. Deathworms are aggressive, burrowing creatures found primarily in the desert biomes of maps like Scorched Earth and Ragnarok. They can deal significant damage to structures and tamed creatures, making them a serious threat to your base. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to protect your base from these dangerous creatures.

First, understand the mechanics of Deathworms. They are large, worm-like creatures that burrow underground and emerge to attack when players or tames get too close. They are highly aggressive and can destroy weaker structures like thatch and wood with ease. To counter this, you need to build your base using stronger materials like stone or metal. Stone is a good early-game option, but metal is the most durable and resistant to damage. Always prioritize upgrading your base to metal as soon as possible, especially if you are in a desert biome.

Step-by-step, start by scouting a safe location for your base. Avoid building directly in the desert if possible, as Deathworms are most common there. Instead, consider setting up your base on the outskirts of the desert or in a nearby biome like the redwoods or mountains. If you must build in the desert, choose a high elevation area, as Deathworms tend to spawn in lower, sandy regions. Once youÔÇÖve selected a location, clear the area of rocks, trees, and other obstacles to give yourself a clean building space.

Next, focus on your baseÔÇÖs foundation. Use stone or metal foundations to create a solid base layer. This will prevent Deathworms from burrowing underneath your structures. Walls are equally important. Build stone or metal walls around the perimeter of your base to create a barrier. Make sure the walls are at least two layers thick for added protection. You can also add a roof to your base to prevent flying creatures or other threats from entering.

Defensive structures are crucial for keeping Deathworms at bay. Place turrets around your base to automatically target and attack any Deathworms that come too close. Auto-turrets and heavy turrets are the most effective, but they require a steady supply of ammunition and electricity. Use generators or wind turbines to power your turrets, and make sure to stockpile bullets or advanced rifle rounds. Additionally, consider placing plant species X around your base. These plants can slow down and damage Deathworms, giving your turrets more time to eliminate the threat.

Resource management is key to maintaining a safe base. Gather large amounts of stone, metal, and cementing paste early on to ensure you have enough materials for upgrades. Use tamed creatures like Ankylosaurus and Doedicurus to efficiently gather stone and metal. For cementing paste, tame a Beelzebufo or gather chitin from insects and combine it with stone in a mortar and pestle or chemistry bench. Stockpile these resources so you can quickly repair or upgrade your base if it comes under attack.

Common mistakes to avoid include building with weak materials like thatch or wood, as these will be easily destroyed by Deathworms. Another mistake is neglecting to secure the perimeter of your base. Always build walls and turrets to create a defensive barrier. Additionally, avoid placing your base in low-lying desert areas where Deathworms are more likely to spawn. Always scout the area thoroughly before building.

Advanced techniques include creating a moat around your base. Digging a deep trench and filling it with water or spikes can deter Deathworms from approaching. You can also use tamed creatures like Rock Elementals or Rexes to patrol the area around your base. These creatures can deal significant damage to Deathworms and provide an extra layer of defense. Another advanced strategy is to build your base on pillars or platforms, elevating it above the ground to make it harder for Deathworms to reach.

For solo players, focus on building a compact, well-defended base. Use fewer resources by prioritizing essential structures like walls, turrets, and storage. For tribes, assign roles to members to streamline resource gathering and base construction. Have one player focus on gathering metal, another on taming defensive creatures, and another on building and upgrading structures.

In summary, building a base safe from Deathworms requires strong materials, strategic placement, and robust defenses. Use stone or metal for all structures, place turrets and plant species X around your base, and avoid building in low-lying desert areas. Gather resources efficiently, and consider advanced techniques like moats or elevated platforms. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and preparation will ensure your base remains safe from these dangerous creatures.