How do I build a base that is safe from Shadowmane in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Building a base that is safe from Shadowmanes in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement of defenses. Shadowmanes are highly aggressive and stealthy creatures that can leap over walls, cloak themselves, and deal significant damage, making them a serious threat to your base. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you create a secure base that can withstand their attacks.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of Shadowmanes. They are pack animals, meaning they gain bonuses when in groups, and they can pounce on players or tames from a distance. They also have a cloaking ability that makes them invisible when stationary, which can make them difficult to detect. To counter these abilities, your base must have multiple layers of defense and be designed to limit their movement and visibility.

Start by choosing a location for your base. Avoid areas where Shadowmanes naturally spawn, such as the swampy regions of the map. Instead, opt for elevated or enclosed areas like cliffs, plateaus, or caves. These locations naturally limit the paths Shadowmanes can take to approach your base. If youÔÇÖre building in an open area, consider creating a perimeter wall with multiple layers. Use stone or metal materials for your walls, as these are more durable and resistant to damage. Wood structures are not recommended, as they can be easily destroyed by Shadowmanes or other threats.

Next, focus on building a strong perimeter defense. Construct high walls at least three layers thick to prevent Shadowmanes from leaping over them. Add ceilings or overhangs to the top of your walls to further deter their pouncing ability. Place turrets around the perimeter of your base, as they can detect and attack cloaked Shadowmanes. Auto-turrets and heavy turrets are particularly effective, but make sure you have a reliable power source to keep them operational. Wind turbines or generators are good options, depending on your map and available resources.

Inside your base, create a secure area for your tames and resources. Use metal gates and doors to block off sections of your base, and consider adding a secondary inner wall for added protection. Store your most valuable items in vaults or secure storage containers, and keep your tames in reinforced enclosures. If you have tames that can fight, such as Rexes or Spinos, position them near entry points to help defend against Shadowmanes.

Resource management is crucial for maintaining your defenses. Gather large amounts of stone, metal, and polymer to build and upgrade your structures. Use a metal pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus to mine metal efficiently, and a Doedicurus to gather stone. Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku or harvesting organic polymer from certain creatures. Keep a steady supply of ammunition for your turrets, as they will be your primary line of defense against Shadowmanes.

For solo players, itÔÇÖs important to prioritize efficiency and resource conservation. Focus on building a smaller, more fortified base rather than a large, sprawling one. Use tames like the Argentavis or Ankylosaurus to help gather resources more quickly. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, divide tasks among members to speed up construction and resource gathering. Assign roles such as builders, gatherers, and defenders to ensure your base is completed quickly and efficiently.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the strength of Shadowmanes and building with weak materials. Always use stone or metal for your walls and structures, and avoid leaving gaps or weak points in your defenses. Another mistake is neglecting your turrets or power supply. Make sure your turrets are always stocked with ammunition and that your power source is protected from damage.

Advanced techniques include using plant species X as an additional layer of defense. These plants can slow down and damage Shadowmanes, giving your turrets more time to eliminate them. You can also use traps like bear traps or large spike walls to immobilize or injure Shadowmanes as they approach your base. Additionally, consider using tames like the Yutyrannus to buff your defenses or the Megatherium to deal extra damage to Shadowmanes.

In summary, building a base safe from Shadowmanes requires careful planning, strong materials, and multiple layers of defense. Choose a secure location, build high and thick walls, and use turrets and traps to deter attacks. Manage your resources efficiently, and avoid common mistakes like using weak materials or neglecting your defenses. With these strategies, you can create a base that is well-protected against Shadowmanes and other threats in ARK: Survival Evolved.