How do I build a base that is safe from underwater caves in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base that is safe from underwater caves in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement. Underwater caves are dangerous due to the presence of hostile creatures like Megalodons, Eels, and Jellyfish, as well as the risk of other players raiding your base if you are on a PvP server. Here is a detailed guide to help you create a secure underwater base.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of underwater building. Structures placed underwater must be built on foundations or pillars, just like on land. However, underwater environments have unique challenges, such as limited oxygen and the need for specialized equipment like SCUBA gear or a Lazarus Chowder to stay submerged for extended periods. Additionally, underwater caves often have tight spaces, so you must plan your base layout carefully to avoid blocking pathways or trapping yourself.
To start, scout the area around the underwater cave you want to build near. Look for a flat surface or a spot where you can place foundations without obstructing the cave entrance. Avoid building directly inside the cave unless you are confident in your ability to defend it, as this can make your base an easy target for raiders. Instead, consider building near the cave entrance or on a nearby underwater plateau. This allows you to monitor the cave while keeping your base slightly hidden.
Next, gather the necessary resources. For an underwater base, you will need a lot of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone is used for early-game structures, but metal is essential for mid-to-late-game durability. Cementing paste can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams. You will also need polymer, which can be obtained from killing Kairuku (penguins) or crafting it from organic polymer and obsidian. These materials are crucial for building advanced structures like metal walls, turrets, and industrial forges.
Once you have the resources, start by placing foundations. Use stone or metal foundations to ensure your base is sturdy. If the terrain is uneven, use pillars to elevate the foundations and create a level surface. After placing the foundations, build walls, ceilings, and doors to enclose your base. Make sure to leave space for a water entrance, such as a large hatchframe with a ladder, so you can easily enter and exit your base without drowning.
Defense is critical for an underwater base. Place turrets around the perimeter to deter hostile creatures and raiders. You can also use plant species X, which can be grown in large crop plots and act as natural turrets. Additionally, tame aquatic creatures like Megalodons, Mosasaurs, or Tusoteuthis to guard your base. These creatures can be set to aggressive or neutral to attack intruders automatically.
One common mistake is neglecting oxygen management. Always have a backup plan for oxygen, such as placing air tanks or crafting Lazarus Chowder. You can also build a small room with airlocks to store oxygen tanks and SCUBA gear. Another mistake is overbuilding, which can make your base too large to defend effectively. Keep your base compact and focus on essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and defensive measures.
For advanced techniques, consider using tek structures if you have access to them. Tek structures are highly durable and offer unique features like force fields and teleporters. You can also use underwater tek generators to power your base without needing to surface for fuel. Additionally, use cryopods to store and deploy tames quickly, allowing you to adapt to threats on the fly.
Resource requirements for an underwater base are high, so prepare accordingly. If you are playing solo, focus on gathering resources efficiently by using tames like Ankylosaurus for metal and Doedicurus for stone. In a tribe, divide tasks among members to speed up the process. For example, one player can gather metal while another collects cementing paste.
A specific example of a safe underwater base location is the Hidden Lake on The Island map. This area has a nearby underwater cave and is relatively secluded, making it a good spot for a hidden base. Another example is the underwater plateau near the Western Approach on Ragnarok, which offers ample space and resources.
In conclusion, building a safe underwater base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strong defenses. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a secure and functional base that protects you from the dangers of underwater caves. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you thrive in the underwater environment.
First, you need to understand the mechanics of underwater building. Structures placed underwater must be built on foundations or pillars, just like on land. However, underwater environments have unique challenges, such as limited oxygen and the need for specialized equipment like SCUBA gear or a Lazarus Chowder to stay submerged for extended periods. Additionally, underwater caves often have tight spaces, so you must plan your base layout carefully to avoid blocking pathways or trapping yourself.
To start, scout the area around the underwater cave you want to build near. Look for a flat surface or a spot where you can place foundations without obstructing the cave entrance. Avoid building directly inside the cave unless you are confident in your ability to defend it, as this can make your base an easy target for raiders. Instead, consider building near the cave entrance or on a nearby underwater plateau. This allows you to monitor the cave while keeping your base slightly hidden.
Next, gather the necessary resources. For an underwater base, you will need a lot of stone, metal, and cementing paste. Stone is used for early-game structures, but metal is essential for mid-to-late-game durability. Cementing paste can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams. You will also need polymer, which can be obtained from killing Kairuku (penguins) or crafting it from organic polymer and obsidian. These materials are crucial for building advanced structures like metal walls, turrets, and industrial forges.
Once you have the resources, start by placing foundations. Use stone or metal foundations to ensure your base is sturdy. If the terrain is uneven, use pillars to elevate the foundations and create a level surface. After placing the foundations, build walls, ceilings, and doors to enclose your base. Make sure to leave space for a water entrance, such as a large hatchframe with a ladder, so you can easily enter and exit your base without drowning.
Defense is critical for an underwater base. Place turrets around the perimeter to deter hostile creatures and raiders. You can also use plant species X, which can be grown in large crop plots and act as natural turrets. Additionally, tame aquatic creatures like Megalodons, Mosasaurs, or Tusoteuthis to guard your base. These creatures can be set to aggressive or neutral to attack intruders automatically.
One common mistake is neglecting oxygen management. Always have a backup plan for oxygen, such as placing air tanks or crafting Lazarus Chowder. You can also build a small room with airlocks to store oxygen tanks and SCUBA gear. Another mistake is overbuilding, which can make your base too large to defend effectively. Keep your base compact and focus on essential structures like storage, crafting stations, and defensive measures.
For advanced techniques, consider using tek structures if you have access to them. Tek structures are highly durable and offer unique features like force fields and teleporters. You can also use underwater tek generators to power your base without needing to surface for fuel. Additionally, use cryopods to store and deploy tames quickly, allowing you to adapt to threats on the fly.
Resource requirements for an underwater base are high, so prepare accordingly. If you are playing solo, focus on gathering resources efficiently by using tames like Ankylosaurus for metal and Doedicurus for stone. In a tribe, divide tasks among members to speed up the process. For example, one player can gather metal while another collects cementing paste.
A specific example of a safe underwater base location is the Hidden Lake on The Island map. This area has a nearby underwater cave and is relatively secluded, making it a good spot for a hidden base. Another example is the underwater plateau near the Western Approach on Ragnarok, which offers ample space and resources.
In conclusion, building a safe underwater base in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strong defenses. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a secure and functional base that protects you from the dangers of underwater caves. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you thrive in the underwater environment.