How do I craft a tek underwater saddle in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Crafting a Tek Underwater Saddle in ARK: Survival Evolved is a late-game goal that requires significant preparation, resources, and progression. This saddle is used for underwater creatures like the Basilosaurus, Mosasaurus, and Tusoteuthis, providing advanced protection and utility. Below is a detailed guide on how to achieve this, covering mechanics, strategies, and considerations.

To craft a Tek Underwater Saddle, you must first unlock the Tekgram for it. This is done by defeating the Alpha Dragon, Alpha Megapithecus, and Alpha Broodmother bosses in the game. These bosses drop Tekgrams, which are blueprints for advanced Tek-tier items. Once you have the Tekgram, you can craft the saddle at a Tek Replicator, a high-tier crafting station that requires Element to operate. Element is obtained by defeating bosses or harvesting it from specific sources like the Genesis simulation or Extinction map.

The resource requirements for crafting a Tek Underwater Saddle are substantial. You will need 2000 Metal Ingots, 500 Polymer, 200 Crystal, 200 Cementing Paste, and 100 Element. Gathering these resources requires advanced tools and tames. For example, Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore, which is best harvested with an Ankylosaurus. Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku (penguins) or by crafting it from Obsidian and Cementing Paste. Cementing Paste is crafted from Chitin/Keratin and Stone or harvested from Beelzebufo (frog) or by raiding beaver dams. Crystal is found in mountainous regions and caves, often requiring a pickaxe or a Doedicurus for efficient gathering. Element is the most challenging resource, as it is only obtainable from boss fights or specific late-game activities.

Preparation is key to crafting a Tek Underwater Saddle. Ensure you have a well-equipped base with industrial forges, fabricators, and a Tek Replicator. Tames like the Ankylosaurus, Doedicurus, and Beelzebufo will make resource gathering much faster. Additionally, having a strong tribe or alliance can help with boss fights, as these are difficult to complete solo. If you are playing solo, focus on breeding high-level Rexes or other strong creatures to take on the bosses. Boss fights require careful planning, as each boss has unique mechanics and weaknesses. For example, the Alpha Dragon is weak to ranged attacks and resistant to fire, so bringing high-damage ranged weapons and creatures with high health is essential.

When crafting the saddle, ensure you have enough Element to power the Tek Replicator. Element is consumed during the crafting process, so stockpile it beforehand. Once crafted, the Tek Underwater Saddle provides significant benefits, including increased armor and protection for your underwater tames. It also allows you to use Tek abilities, such as the Tek Helmet's night vision and underwater breathing, making it invaluable for deep-sea exploration and combat.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the resource requirements and attempting boss fights without proper preparation. Boss fights are challenging and require strong tames, high-quality gear, and a solid strategy. Additionally, ensure you have a secure base to store your resources, as losing them to raids or accidents can set you back significantly. Advanced techniques include optimizing your resource gathering routes and using tames like the Argentavis or Quetzal to transport heavy resources like Metal Ingots.

In summary, crafting a Tek Underwater Saddle in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex process that requires defeating bosses, gathering rare resources, and using advanced crafting stations. Proper preparation, resource management, and strategic planning are essential to achieving this goal. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, focus on building a strong foundation of tames, gear, and base infrastructure to support your progression. With patience and effort, you can unlock the power of Tek-tier equipment and dominate the underwater world of ARK.