What is the best way to cool down a base in hot climates in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Cooling down a base in hot climates in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for survival, especially in maps like Scorched Earth or areas with extreme heat such as the desert biomes in other maps. The gameÔÇÖs temperature system can cause players to overheat, leading to rapid dehydration and health loss. To combat this, players must implement strategies to regulate the temperature inside their base. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this effectively.

First, understand the mechanics of temperature in ARK. The game simulates environmental heat, which is influenced by the biome, time of day, and weather conditions. Structures can either trap heat or provide insulation, depending on their material and design. For example, metal structures tend to retain heat, making them less ideal for hot climates unless properly cooled. On the other hand, adobe structures, available in Scorched Earth, provide natural insulation against heat and are highly recommended for hot environments.

To start cooling your base, prioritize building with adobe if youÔÇÖre in a hot biome. Adobe structures are crafted using clay, stone, and fiber, which are relatively easy to gather. These materials provide excellent heat resistance, reducing the internal temperature of your base. If adobe is not available, consider using stone or wood, as they are better insulators than metal. Avoid using metal for walls and ceilings in hot climates unless you have a cooling system in place.

Next, incorporate air conditioners into your base design. Air conditioners are electrical devices that lower the temperature in their vicinity. To use them, youÔÇÖll need to set up a power system using a generator or renewable energy sources like wind turbines or solar panels. Place air conditioners strategically around your base, ensuring they cover all areas where you spend time. Each air conditioner has a limited range, so you may need multiple units for larger bases. Air conditioners also have the added benefit of helping with egg incubation, making them versatile for breeding purposes.

Another effective method is to use water sources for cooling. If your base is near a body of water, consider building partially over the water or incorporating water reservoirs. Water has a natural cooling effect, and placing water tanks or irrigation systems inside your base can help reduce the temperature. Additionally, placing water jars or canteens in your inventory can help you stay hydrated, which indirectly helps manage heat effects.

For advanced cooling, consider using Tek structures and devices. The Tek Air Conditioner, unlocked by defeating bosses and acquiring Tekgrams, provides superior cooling and can cover a larger area than regular air conditioners. Tek structures also have better insulation properties, making them ideal for extreme climates. However, Tek technology requires significant resources and progression, so this is more of a late-game solution.

Resource management is crucial when setting up a cooling system. Gather materials like clay, stone, and fiber for adobe structures, or metal and electronics for air conditioners. Ensure you have a steady supply of fuel for generators or access to renewable energy sources. In tribes, assign roles to members to streamline resource gathering and base construction. Solo players should focus on gathering materials in bulk before starting the build to avoid interruptions.

Common mistakes to avoid include over-relying on metal structures without cooling systems, placing air conditioners too far apart, and neglecting hydration. Metal structures can turn your base into an oven if not properly cooled, so always pair them with air conditioners or other cooling methods. Ensure air conditioners are placed close enough to cover all areas, and always keep water containers filled to combat dehydration.

In summary, cooling a base in hot climates involves using heat-resistant materials like adobe, incorporating air conditioners, and leveraging water sources. Advanced players can use Tek technology for superior cooling. Proper resource management and strategic placement of cooling devices are key to maintaining a comfortable and safe base. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you survive and thrive in ARKÔÇÖs hottest environments.