How do I create a hidden or camouflaged base in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Creating a hidden or camouflaged base in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical strategy for survival, especially in PvP environments where other players may seek to raid your base. The goal is to make your base as inconspicuous as possible, blending it into the environment or hiding it in hard-to-reach locations. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of base building and how structures interact with the environment. ARK allows players to build structures on almost any terrain, but certain areas are better for hiding bases. Look for dense forests, cliffsides, underwater caves, or areas with natural rock formations. These locations provide natural cover and make it harder for other players to spot your base. When building, use materials that match the surroundings. For example, in a forest, use wood or thatch structures, as they blend well with trees and foliage. In rocky areas, stone or metal structures may be less noticeable.

Step-by-step, start by scouting the map for a suitable location. Avoid high-traffic areas like resource-rich zones or near popular spawn points. Once you find a spot, clear the area of any debris or rocks that might make your base stand out. Begin building small and compact. A large base is easier to spot, so focus on essential structures like a small crafting area, storage, and a bed for respawning. Use foundations sparingly, as they can alter the terrain and make your base more visible. Instead, consider using pillars and ceilings to create a floating base, which can be harder to detect.

Important tips include using natural camouflage. Place your base near large trees or rocks that can block the view from a distance. Avoid using bright colors or lights, as they can draw attention. If you must use lights, keep them dim and only use them when necessary. Another tip is to avoid leaving tamed dinosaurs outside your base, as they can be seen from a distance. Instead, keep them inside or in a hidden pen. Use small, fast dinosaurs like Raptors or Dimorphodons for defense, as they are less noticeable and can be hidden easily.

Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to popular resource nodes or spawn points. These areas are frequently visited by other players, increasing the risk of your base being discovered. Another mistake is overbuilding. A large base with multiple structures is more likely to be spotted than a small, compact one. Avoid using too many foundations, as they can alter the terrain and make your base stand out. Also, avoid leaving crafting stations or storage boxes outside, as they can be seen from a distance.

Advanced techniques include using underwater caves or cliffside locations. Underwater caves are particularly effective because they are hard to find and require scuba gear or a water dinosaur to access. Cliffside bases can be built on the side of a mountain, making them difficult to spot from the ground. Another advanced technique is to use natural barriers like waterfalls or dense foliage to hide your base. You can also use camouflage paint on your structures to make them blend in with the environment.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial. You will need a steady supply of wood, thatch, stone, and fiber for building. If you plan to build a metal base, you will need a lot of metal and cementing paste. Prepare by gathering these resources in advance and storing them in a hidden location. Use a pickaxe or hatchet to gather resources, and consider taming a dinosaur like a Doedicurus for stone or a Beaver for wood to speed up the process.

Tribe and solo considerations differ slightly. In a tribe, you can divide tasks among members, making it easier to gather resources and build quickly. However, more people mean more activity around the base, which can increase the risk of detection. In solo play, you have more control over the baseÔÇÖs location and design, but you will need to manage resources and building on your own. Either way, communication and coordination are key to maintaining a hidden base.

Specific examples include building a treehouse in the Redwood Forest. The dense canopy provides excellent cover, and you can use tree platforms to create a hidden base high above the ground. Another example is building in an underwater cave on The Island map. These caves are hard to find and require special equipment to access, making them ideal for a hidden base. A third example is building a cliffside base on the side of a mountain. Use natural rock formations to hide your structures, and avoid building too high, as it can make your base more visible from a distance.

In conclusion, creating a hidden or camouflaged base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and attention to detail. Choose a location that blends well with the environment, build small and compact, and use natural barriers to hide your base. Avoid common mistakes like overbuilding or placing your base in high-traffic areas. Use advanced techniques like underwater caves or cliffside locations for added security. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, communication and coordination are essential for maintaining a hidden base. With the right strategies, you can create a base that is both secure and inconspicuous, giving you a significant advantage in the game.