What are the best base designs for cliff platforms in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Building a base on cliff platforms in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique and strategic approach to base building. Cliff platforms are structures that can be placed on the sides of cliffs, allowing players to create elevated bases that are difficult for enemies to access. This type of base design is particularly useful for PvP scenarios, as it provides a natural defense against ground-based attacks. However, building on cliff platforms requires careful planning and execution to ensure the base is both functional and secure.
To begin, you need to unlock the Cliff Platform engram, which is available at level 40. Once unlocked, you can craft the platform using 200 wood, 100 fiber, and 50 hide. The platform itself is relatively small, so you will need to plan your base layout carefully to maximize space. When placing the platform, choose a cliff face that is high enough to deter ground attacks but still accessible for your own use. Be mindful of the surrounding environment, as some cliffs may have limited space or be too close to enemy territories.
Once the platform is placed, you can start building your base. The first step is to lay down foundations. Since the platform is small, you may need to extend the base by placing additional ceilings or foundations around the edges. Be cautious when extending the base, as any structures that extend too far from the platform may not be supported and could collapse. To avoid this, use pillars to provide additional support for extended structures. Pillars can be placed directly on the platform or on the ground below, depending on the height of the cliff.
Next, build walls and ceilings to enclose your base. Stone or metal materials are recommended for their durability, especially in PvP scenarios where your base may come under attack. Metal is the strongest material but requires more resources to craft, so consider your resource availability when choosing materials. For added security, you can place turrets around the perimeter of the base. Turrets require a power source, so make sure to include a generator or wind turbine in your base design. Additionally, consider placing plant species X around the base for extra defense, as they can slow down and damage approaching enemies.
Storage and crafting stations are essential components of any base. Place storage boxes, preserving bins, and crafting stations in a centralized location within the base to keep everything organized and easily accessible. If you plan to breed dinosaurs, you may also want to include a dedicated area for egg incubation and baby raising. Keep in mind that cliff platforms have limited space, so prioritize the most important structures and avoid overcrowding.
One common mistake when building on cliff platforms is neglecting the base's accessibility. While the elevated position provides natural defense, it can also make it difficult for you to enter and exit the base. To address this, consider building a ramp or ladder system that allows you to easily access the base from the ground. Alternatively, you can use flying dinosaurs like Argentavis or Pteranodon to transport yourself and resources to and from the base. However, be cautious when using flying dinosaurs, as they can be targeted by enemy players or wild creatures.
Another important consideration is resource management. Building on a cliff platform requires a significant amount of resources, especially if you are using metal structures. Make sure to gather enough materials before starting the build, and consider setting up a resource gathering operation nearby to ensure a steady supply. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your tribe members to divide tasks and gather resources more efficiently. Solo players may need to spend more time gathering resources, so plan accordingly.
Advanced techniques for cliff platform bases include using multiple platforms to create a larger base or connecting platforms with bridges to create a network of elevated structures. This can provide additional space and flexibility for your base design. Additionally, you can use the natural terrain to your advantage by placing turrets or defensive structures on nearby cliffs to create overlapping fields of fire. This can make it even more difficult for enemies to approach your base.
In terms of specific examples, a common scenario is building a cliff platform base in the Redwood Forest. The tall cliffs in this area provide excellent vantage points and natural defense. However, the Redwood Forest is also home to aggressive creatures like Thylacoleo and Microraptors, so be prepared to defend your base against these threats. Another example is building on the cliffs near the ocean, which can provide easy access to water resources and aquatic creatures for taming.
In conclusion, building a base on cliff platforms in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement. By following the steps outlined above and considering the tips and considerations, you can create a secure and functional base that takes advantage of the natural defense provided by elevated positions. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, a well-designed cliff platform base can be a powerful asset in your survival and PvP efforts.
To begin, you need to unlock the Cliff Platform engram, which is available at level 40. Once unlocked, you can craft the platform using 200 wood, 100 fiber, and 50 hide. The platform itself is relatively small, so you will need to plan your base layout carefully to maximize space. When placing the platform, choose a cliff face that is high enough to deter ground attacks but still accessible for your own use. Be mindful of the surrounding environment, as some cliffs may have limited space or be too close to enemy territories.
Once the platform is placed, you can start building your base. The first step is to lay down foundations. Since the platform is small, you may need to extend the base by placing additional ceilings or foundations around the edges. Be cautious when extending the base, as any structures that extend too far from the platform may not be supported and could collapse. To avoid this, use pillars to provide additional support for extended structures. Pillars can be placed directly on the platform or on the ground below, depending on the height of the cliff.
Next, build walls and ceilings to enclose your base. Stone or metal materials are recommended for their durability, especially in PvP scenarios where your base may come under attack. Metal is the strongest material but requires more resources to craft, so consider your resource availability when choosing materials. For added security, you can place turrets around the perimeter of the base. Turrets require a power source, so make sure to include a generator or wind turbine in your base design. Additionally, consider placing plant species X around the base for extra defense, as they can slow down and damage approaching enemies.
Storage and crafting stations are essential components of any base. Place storage boxes, preserving bins, and crafting stations in a centralized location within the base to keep everything organized and easily accessible. If you plan to breed dinosaurs, you may also want to include a dedicated area for egg incubation and baby raising. Keep in mind that cliff platforms have limited space, so prioritize the most important structures and avoid overcrowding.
One common mistake when building on cliff platforms is neglecting the base's accessibility. While the elevated position provides natural defense, it can also make it difficult for you to enter and exit the base. To address this, consider building a ramp or ladder system that allows you to easily access the base from the ground. Alternatively, you can use flying dinosaurs like Argentavis or Pteranodon to transport yourself and resources to and from the base. However, be cautious when using flying dinosaurs, as they can be targeted by enemy players or wild creatures.
Another important consideration is resource management. Building on a cliff platform requires a significant amount of resources, especially if you are using metal structures. Make sure to gather enough materials before starting the build, and consider setting up a resource gathering operation nearby to ensure a steady supply. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your tribe members to divide tasks and gather resources more efficiently. Solo players may need to spend more time gathering resources, so plan accordingly.
Advanced techniques for cliff platform bases include using multiple platforms to create a larger base or connecting platforms with bridges to create a network of elevated structures. This can provide additional space and flexibility for your base design. Additionally, you can use the natural terrain to your advantage by placing turrets or defensive structures on nearby cliffs to create overlapping fields of fire. This can make it even more difficult for enemies to approach your base.
In terms of specific examples, a common scenario is building a cliff platform base in the Redwood Forest. The tall cliffs in this area provide excellent vantage points and natural defense. However, the Redwood Forest is also home to aggressive creatures like Thylacoleo and Microraptors, so be prepared to defend your base against these threats. Another example is building on the cliffs near the ocean, which can provide easy access to water resources and aquatic creatures for taming.
In conclusion, building a base on cliff platforms in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement. By following the steps outlined above and considering the tips and considerations, you can create a secure and functional base that takes advantage of the natural defense provided by elevated positions. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, a well-designed cliff platform base can be a powerful asset in your survival and PvP efforts.