What is the best way to use tek ramps for base mobility in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Tek ramps are a versatile and advanced building structure in ARK: Survival Evolved, primarily used for enhancing base mobility and accessibility. They are part of the Tek Tier, which is unlocked after defeating certain bosses and acquiring Tekgrams. Tek ramps are particularly useful for creating smooth pathways, ramps, and elevated platforms, making them ideal for bases with multiple levels or for quickly moving dinosaurs and players across uneven terrain. Below is a detailed guide on how to effectively use Tek ramps for base mobility.

To begin, you must first unlock the Tek Ramp engram by defeating bosses like the Broodmother, Megapithecus, or Dragon. Once unlocked, you can craft Tek ramps at a Tek Replicator using resources such as Element, Metal Ingots, Crystal, and Polymer. Element is the most critical resource, as it is required for all Tek structures. Ensure you have a steady supply of Element by farming bosses or harvesting it from specific maps like Extinction.

When placing Tek ramps, consider the layout of your base. Tek ramps are best used to connect different levels of your base, such as ground-level storage areas to elevated living quarters or dino pens. They can also be used to create quick access points for tamed dinosaurs, especially larger ones like Rexes or Brontos, which may struggle with traditional stairs. To place a Tek ramp, align it with the edge of a platform or foundation and ensure it slopes downward at a manageable angle. Avoid placing ramps at too steep an angle, as this can make movement difficult for both players and dinosaurs.

One effective strategy is to use Tek ramps in combination with Tek teleporters. By placing a Tek teleporter at the top and bottom of a ramp, you can instantly transport yourself or your dinosaurs across large distances within your base. This is particularly useful for large bases or when defending against raids, as it allows for rapid movement of resources and creatures. Additionally, Tek ramps can be used to create elevated pathways for turrets or defensive structures, giving you a tactical advantage during PvP encounters.

Resource management is crucial when using Tek ramps. Since they require Element, which is a rare and valuable resource, plan your base design carefully to minimize waste. Avoid overusing ramps in areas where they are not necessary, and consider using cheaper alternatives like stone or metal ramps for less critical pathways. For solo players, this is especially important, as gathering Element can be time-consuming. In a tribe, coordinate with members to ensure efficient use of resources and to share the workload of farming bosses for Element.

Common mistakes to avoid include placing Tek ramps in areas with insufficient space, which can block movement or make navigation awkward. Always test the placement of ramps with your dinosaurs to ensure they can traverse them without getting stuck. Another mistake is neglecting to secure ramps with walls or railings, which can leave your base vulnerable to attacks or accidental falls. Adding railings or walls along the sides of ramps not only improves safety but also enhances the overall defense of your base.

Advanced techniques involve integrating Tek ramps with other Tek structures, such as Tek forcefields or Tek bridges, to create a highly mobile and secure base. For example, you can use a Tek bridge to span a large gap and connect it with Tek ramps on either side, allowing for seamless movement across your base. Additionally, consider using Tek ramps in conjunction with Tek generators to power your base efficiently. Tek generators provide a large amount of power and can support multiple Tek structures, making them ideal for advanced bases.

In terms of tribe considerations, communication is key. Ensure that all tribe members understand the layout of the base and the purpose of each ramp. Assign roles for resource gathering and base maintenance to avoid duplication of effort. For solo players, focus on creating a compact and efficient base design that maximizes the utility of Tek ramps without overextending your resources.

A specific example of using Tek ramps effectively is in a multi-level mountain base. By placing Tek ramps to connect the lower levels, where you store resources and dinosaurs, to the upper levels, where you have living quarters and crafting stations, you can create a highly functional and defensible base. Another scenario is using Tek ramps in a PvP setting to quickly move defensive dinosaurs like Gigas or Rexes to key locations during a raid.

In conclusion, Tek ramps are a powerful tool for enhancing base mobility in ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding their mechanics, planning your base layout carefully, and managing resources efficiently, you can create a highly functional and secure base. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, Tek ramps offer numerous advantages for both PvE and PvP gameplay.