How do I breed for creatures with high movement speed in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Breeding for creatures with high movement speed in ARK: Survival Evolved involves a combination of understanding the game's breeding mechanics, careful planning, and patience. Movement speed is one of the key stats that can be inherited and improved through selective breeding, but it requires a systematic approach to achieve the desired results. Below is a detailed guide on how to breed for high movement speed, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

First, it's important to understand how stats are inherited in ARK. When two creatures breed, the offspring has a 55% chance to inherit the higher stat from either parent for each individual stat, including movement speed. This means that if one parent has a higher movement speed stat than the other, the baby has a good chance of inheriting that higher stat. However, movement speed is unique because it is not a stat that can be leveled up manually after taming. Instead, it is determined solely by the creature's base stat, which is why breeding is the only way to improve it.

To begin, you need to tame multiple creatures of the same species with high movement speed stats. This requires patience and luck, as wild creatures have randomized stats. Once you have tamed several creatures, check their stats using the creature's inventory screen or a mod like "Awesome Spyglass" to identify which ones have the highest movement speed. Keep these creatures separate from the rest, as they will form the foundation of your breeding program.

Next, you will need to set up a breeding area. This should be a secure location with enough space for the creatures to move around and for you to manage the breeding process. Ensure the area is safe from predators and other threats, as breeding creatures and their offspring are vulnerable. You will also need a steady supply of food for the parents and the babies, as well as resources like preserving bins or refrigerators to store eggs if you are breeding egg-laying creatures.

Once your breeding area is ready, pair the creatures with the highest movement speed stats. Place them close together and enable mating in their behavior settings. Keep an eye on them, as the mating process can take some time. Once the female lays an egg or becomes pregnant, you will need to incubate the egg or care for the pregnant creature until the baby is born. For egg-laying creatures, you may need to use air conditioners, standing torches, or other temperature-regulating items to keep the egg at the correct temperature for incubation.

After the baby is born or hatched, it will require constant care. This includes feeding it regularly and ensuring it is safe from harm. As the baby grows, you will have the opportunity to imprint on it by interacting with it during specific intervals. Imprinting increases the baby's stats and loyalty, making it more effective in combat and other tasks. To maximize movement speed, focus on imprinting bonuses that enhance this stat.

One common mistake to avoid is breeding creatures with low movement speed stats. This can dilute your breeding line and make it harder to achieve the desired results. Always check the stats of the parents before breeding and only pair those with the highest movement speed. Another mistake is neglecting the baby's care during the growth stages. Failing to feed the baby or protect it from predators can result in its death, wasting your time and resources.

Advanced techniques for optimizing movement speed breeding include using mutations. Mutations can introduce new stat points or color variations into your breeding line. While mutations are random, they can occasionally increase the movement speed stat beyond what is normally possible. To maximize the chances of getting a mutation, breed as many creatures as possible and keep track of their stats. If a mutation occurs, carefully evaluate whether it is beneficial and incorporate it into your breeding line if it is.

Resource requirements for breeding include a steady supply of food, such as meat for carnivores or berries for herbivores, as well as materials for building and maintaining your breeding area. You will also need resources for temperature regulation if you are breeding egg-laying creatures. In a tribe setting, these resources can be shared among members, making the process more efficient. Solo players will need to manage their resources carefully and plan ahead to ensure they have enough supplies for the breeding process.

In conclusion, breeding for high movement speed in ARK: Survival Evolved is a rewarding but time-consuming process. By understanding the mechanics of stat inheritance, setting up a secure breeding area, and carefully managing your breeding lines, you can create creatures with exceptional movement speed. Avoid common mistakes, use advanced techniques like mutations, and ensure you have the necessary resources to support your breeding program. Whether you are playing solo or as part of a tribe, patience and planning are key to achieving your goals.