What are the best ways to avoid or survive a Basilosaurus encounter in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Surviving or avoiding a Basilosaurus encounter in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of preparation, awareness, and strategic decision-making. Basilosaurus are large, aggressive marine creatures found in the ocean biomes, and while they are not the fastest or most dangerous predators, they can still pose a significant threat, especially to unprepared players or those on weaker water mounts. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to handle these encounters effectively.

First, understanding the BasilosaurusÔÇÖs behavior is crucial. Basilosaurus are passive by default but will become aggressive if you get too close or attack them. They are often found in deep ocean areas, sometimes near underwater caves or resource-rich locations. They have a moderate attack range and deal decent damage, but their real threat comes from their ability to dismount you from your water mount, leaving you vulnerable to drowning or other predators. They are also resistant to torpor, making them difficult to knock out for taming unless you are well-prepared.

To avoid a Basilosaurus encounter, the simplest strategy is to maintain a safe distance. When exploring the ocean, always keep an eye out for their large, whale-like bodies. If you spot one, steer clear and give it a wide berth. Using a fast water mount like an Ichthyosaurus or a high-level Megalodon can help you outrun them if necessary. Additionally, avoid lingering in areas where Basilosaurus are known to spawn, such as deep ocean trenches or near underwater caves.

If you find yourself in a situation where you must face a Basilosaurus, preparation is key. Ensure you have a strong water mount, such as a high-level Megalodon, Mosasaurus, or even a Tuso (Tusoteuthis). These creatures have the health and damage output to handle a Basilosaurus in combat. Equip your mount with a saddle for added armor and protection. Bring along healing items like cooked meat or custom consumables to keep your mountÔÇÖs health up during the fight. If you are on foot, avoid engaging a Basilosaurus directly, as they can easily dismount you and leave you stranded in the water.

When engaging a Basilosaurus, use hit-and-run tactics. Attack from a distance with ranged weapons like a crossbow or harpoon gun, then retreat to avoid their counterattacks. If you are on a mount, use its speed and agility to circle around the Basilosaurus while dealing damage. Avoid staying in one spot for too long, as the Basilosaurus can quickly close the distance and dismount you. If you are taming a Basilosaurus, bring plenty of narcotics and prime meat or kibble, as they have high torpor and food requirements. Use a long-range weapon like a crossbow with tranquilizer arrows to safely knock it out.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the BasilosaurusÔÇÖs dismount ability, engaging without a strong mount or proper gear, and venturing into deep ocean areas unprepared. Always scout the area before diving in, and have an escape plan in case things go wrong. Avoid using slow or weak mounts like the Plesiosaur, as they may not be able to outrun or outfight a Basilosaurus.

Advanced techniques include using underwater traps to immobilize a Basilosaurus for taming or combat. Large bear traps or chain bola can temporarily hold it in place, giving you time to attack or retreat. Additionally, using a Tuso to grab and control the Basilosaurus can make the encounter much easier, as the TusoÔÇÖs grab ability can neutralize its dismount threat.

Resource requirements for surviving a Basilosaurus encounter include a strong water mount, a saddle, healing items, and ranged weapons. If taming, bring narcotics, prime meat or kibble, and a long-range tranquilizer weapon. For solo players, preparation is even more critical, as you wonÔÇÖt have tribe members to back you up. Tribe players can coordinate attacks or use multiple mounts to overwhelm the Basilosaurus.

In specific scenarios, such as exploring underwater caves or hunting for deep-sea resources, always be prepared for a Basilosaurus encounter. Bring a strong mount, healing items, and a plan for escape or combat. If you are taming one, choose a safe location away from other predators and have a backup plan in case the taming process goes awry.

By following these strategies and tips, you can effectively avoid or survive Basilosaurus encounters in ARK: Survival Evolved, ensuring your safety and success in the dangerous ocean biomes.