What are the best strategies for surviving in the ocean depths in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Surviving in the ocean depths of ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and an understanding of the unique challenges posed by the underwater environment. The ocean is home to dangerous creatures like Megalodons, Electrophorus, and Tusoteuthis, as well as environmental hazards such as low oxygen levels and extreme pressure. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you thrive in the deep.

First, you need to prepare for the oxygen and pressure mechanics. Oxygen is a critical resource underwater, and your character will drown if it runs out. To extend your underwater survival time, invest points into the Oxygen stat when leveling up. Each point increases your breath-holding capacity, allowing you to stay submerged longer. Additionally, craft a Scuba Tank, which provides a significant oxygen boost. The Scuba Tank requires Polymer, Cementing Paste, and Hide, so gather these resources beforehand. You can also use Lazarus Chowder, a consumable that increases oxygen regeneration, to further extend your time underwater.

Pressure is another factor to consider. As you dive deeper, the pressure increases, which can damage your character over time. To mitigate this, craft a set of SCUBA gear, including a SCUBA Mask, SCUBA Tank, and SCUBA Flippers. The SCUBA Mask allows you to see clearly underwater, while the Flippers increase your swimming speed. The SCUBA Tank not only provides oxygen but also reduces pressure damage. Without this gear, you risk taking constant damage and losing health rapidly in deeper areas.

Next, tame aquatic creatures to assist you. Taming a strong underwater mount is essential for survival. The Basilosaurus is an excellent choice because it is immune to the stun effects of Electrophorus and has high health and damage output. To tame a Basilosaurus, use raw meat or prime meat and approach it carefully, as it can be skittish. Another great option is the Megalodon, which is faster and easier to tame but less durable. For advanced players, the Tusoteuthis is a powerful creature that can grab and crush enemies, but it requires a lot of resources to tame, such as Black Pearls and prime meat.

Base building underwater is challenging but possible. Use underwater structures like the Stone Foundation, Stone Walls, and Reinforced Dinosaur Gates to create a secure base. Place a Bed or Sleeping Bag inside for respawning, and store essential items like food, water, and crafting materials. Be cautious when building near aggressive creatures, as they can damage your structures. Consider using Plant Species X turrets for defense, as they can shoot underwater and deter hostile creatures.

Resource management is crucial for underwater survival. Bring plenty of food and water, as you cannot rely on natural sources like berries or rivers. Cooked meat and water jars are good options. Additionally, gather resources like Silica Pearls, Oil, and Black Pearls, which are abundant in the ocean. Silica Pearls are used for crafting advanced items, while Oil and Black Pearls are essential for high-tier gear and taming. Use a tamed creature like an Ankylosaurus or Dunkleosteus to gather these resources efficiently.

When exploring the ocean, always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid areas with large groups of aggressive creatures, such as packs of Megalodons or Electrophorus. Use your mountÔÇÖs abilities to escape or fight back if necessary. For example, the Basilosaurus can heal itself over time, making it a durable choice for prolonged battles. If you encounter a Tusoteuthis, be prepared for a tough fight, as it can grab and immobilize your mount.

Common mistakes to avoid include diving without proper gear, underestimating the dangers of the ocean, and venturing too deep without a plan. Always bring backup gear, such as extra SCUBA tanks or Lazarus Chowder, in case your primary equipment breaks or runs out. Avoid engaging multiple enemies at once, as the oceanÔÇÖs creatures can overwhelm you quickly. Additionally, never leave your mount unattended, as it can be attacked or killed by predators.

Advanced techniques include using underwater caves for resource farming and base building. These caves often contain rare resources like Oil and Black Pearls, but they are also home to dangerous creatures. Clear the area before setting up a base, and use turrets or tamed creatures for defense. Another advanced strategy is to breed aquatic creatures for improved stats. Breeding a high-level Basilosaurus or Megalodon can give you a powerful mount with increased health and damage, making ocean exploration safer and more efficient.

For solo players, focus on taming a strong mount and building a small, secure base. Avoid large-scale projects that require extensive resources, as they can be difficult to manage alone. Tribe players can divide tasks, such as resource gathering, base building, and creature taming, to make underwater survival more manageable. Communication and coordination are key to success in a tribe setting.

In summary, surviving in the ocean depths of ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, the right gear, and a strong aquatic mount. Manage your oxygen and pressure levels, gather essential resources, and build a secure base to protect yourself from the dangers of the deep. Avoid common mistakes, use advanced techniques to optimize your survival, and adapt your strategies based on whether you are playing solo or in a tribe. With these strategies, you can conquer the ocean and thrive in its challenging environment.