What are the advantages of using metal structures over stone in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Using metal structures over stone in ARK: Survival Evolved offers significant advantages, particularly in terms of durability, defense, and long-term sustainability. Metal structures are far more resistant to damage compared to stone, making them essential for protecting your base from both environmental threats and player raids. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of why and how to transition to metal structures, along with tips and strategies to optimize your base-building process.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of metal structures. Metal structures require metal ingots, which are crafted by smelting metal ore in a forge. YouÔÇÖll also need cementing paste, which can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams. Metal structures have significantly higher health points than stone, making them resistant to most creature attacks and even explosives like grenades or C4. This durability is crucial for defending against raids in PvP or surviving attacks from powerful creatures like Rexes or Gigas in PvE.

To start building with metal, youÔÇÖll need to gather resources efficiently. Metal ore is commonly found in mountainous regions or near riverbeds. Use a metal pickaxe or a high-level Ankylosaurus to maximize your yield. For cementing paste, consider taming a Beelzebufo (frog) or a Megatherium (giant sloth), as they can harvest large amounts of chitin from insects. Alternatively, you can raid beaver dams for cementing paste, but be cautious of the beavers, as they will attack if you take their resources.

Once you have the necessary materials, craft metal structures at a fabricator. Metal walls, ceilings, and foundations are the core components of a secure base. Start by replacing your stone foundations and walls with metal ones. This upgrade will immediately improve your baseÔÇÖs durability. For added security, consider building multiple layers of walls or using metal gates to create airlocks, which can slow down raiders and give you time to respond.

One common mistake players make is neglecting to upgrade their entire base. Even a single weak point, like a stone door or window, can be exploited by raiders. Ensure all parts of your base are upgraded to metal, including doors, windows, and ceilings. Additionally, avoid placing storage containers or crafting stations near walls, as they can be used as stepping stones by raiders to bypass your defenses.

Advanced techniques include incorporating turrets and traps into your metal base. Auto turrets, powered by electricity, can deter raiders and eliminate threats quickly. Place them strategically at entry points and high-traffic areas. Plant Species X turrets, which can be grown from seeds, are another excellent defensive option. Combine these with metal spike walls or bear traps to create a layered defense system.

Resource management is critical when transitioning to metal structures. Metal and cementing paste are resource-intensive, so plan your resource runs carefully. Use tamed creatures like the Ankylosaurus for metal and the Doedicurus for stone to maximize efficiency. In a tribe, assign roles to members to streamline resource gathering and base construction. Solo players should focus on taming creatures that can assist with resource collection to reduce the workload.

In PvP scenarios, metal bases are essential for survival. Stone structures can be easily destroyed with explosives, but metal structures require significantly more effort and resources to breach. Consider building your base in a hidden or hard-to-reach location, such as a cliffside or underwater, to further deter raiders. Use metal pillars and foundations to create a stable base on uneven terrain.

For PvE players, metal structures provide peace of mind against powerful creatures. While stone structures can withstand most early-game threats, late-game creatures like Alpha predators or Titanosaurs can easily destroy them. Upgrading to metal ensures your base remains intact during these encounters.

In conclusion, transitioning to metal structures in ARK: Survival Evolved is a game-changing upgrade that enhances your baseÔÇÖs durability and security. By efficiently gathering resources, upgrading all base components, and incorporating advanced defenses, you can create a fortress capable of withstanding the gameÔÇÖs toughest challenges. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, prioritizing metal structures is a key step in progressing through the game and ensuring your survival in the dangerous world of ARK.