How do I craft and use a tek saddle for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Crafting and using a tek saddle for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved is a late-game activity that requires significant preparation and resources. Tek saddles are advanced pieces of equipment that provide unique abilities to certain dinosaurs, enhancing their combat effectiveness, especially in challenging environments like underwater. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use a tek saddle for underwater combat, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

To craft a tek saddle, you must first unlock the necessary engrams. Tek saddles are part of the tek tier, which is unlocked by defeating bosses and obtaining tekgrams. For underwater combat, the most relevant tek saddle is the Mosasaur Tek Saddle, which allows the Mosasaur to fire explosive tek blasts underwater. To unlock the Mosasaur Tek Saddle engram, you must defeat the Alpha Dragon, Alpha Megapithecus, or Alpha Broodmother in the boss arenas. Once unlocked, you can craft the saddle at a tek replicator, which requires element to power.

The resource requirements for crafting a Mosasaur Tek Saddle are substantial. You will need 350 metal ingots, 250 polymer, 200 crystal, 150 cementing paste or achatina paste, 100 black pearls, and 85 element. Gathering these resources can be time-consuming, so it is advisable to use tamed dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for metal and crystal, Beelzebufo or Achatina for cementing paste, and Tusoteuthis or Eurypterids for black pearls. Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku or harvesting organic polymer from certain creatures.

Once you have crafted the Mosasaur Tek Saddle, you need to equip it on a Mosasaur. Taming a high-level Mosasaur is essential for effective underwater combat. Use a taming pen or trap to safely tame the Mosasaur, and consider using kibble for faster and more efficient taming. Once tamed, place the tek saddle on the Mosasaur and ensure you have element in its inventory to power the saddle's abilities.

The Mosasaur Tek Saddle allows the Mosasaur to fire explosive tek blasts, which are highly effective against underwater threats like Alpha Mosasaurs, Tusoteuthis, and other hostile creatures. The tek blasts deal significant damage and have a wide area of effect, making them ideal for clearing groups of enemies or taking down large targets. However, the tek blasts consume element with each shot, so managing your element supply is crucial. Always carry extra element in the Mosasaur's inventory to avoid running out during combat.

When engaging in underwater combat, positioning and timing are key. Use the Mosasaur's mobility to your advantage, keeping a safe distance from enemies while firing tek blasts. Avoid getting surrounded by smaller creatures, as they can overwhelm you. Focus on high-priority targets like Alpha Mosasaurs or Tusoteuthis first, as they pose the greatest threat. Use the tek saddle's explosive blasts to deal massive damage quickly, but be mindful of the cooldown period between shots.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the resource requirements for crafting the tek saddle, taming a low-level Mosasaur, and running out of element during combat. Always prepare thoroughly before attempting to craft and use a tek saddle, and ensure your Mosasaur is well-leveled and equipped with high-quality gear. Additionally, avoid engaging in underwater combat without a backup plan, as the ocean is filled with dangerous creatures that can quickly turn the tide against you.

Advanced techniques for using the Mosasaur Tek Saddle include coordinating with tribe members for maximum effectiveness. In a tribe setting, one player can pilot the Mosasaur while others ride tamed creatures like Basilosaurus or Tusoteuthis to provide support. This teamwork can make underwater combat more manageable and efficient. Additionally, consider using the tek saddle in conjunction with other tek items, such as the tek rifle or tek armor, to further enhance your combat capabilities.

In solo play, the Mosasaur Tek Saddle is still a powerful tool, but you must be more cautious. Focus on hit-and-run tactics, using the Mosasaur's speed to avoid prolonged engagements. Always have an escape route planned, and consider using underwater caves or structures as temporary shelters if the situation becomes too dangerous.

In summary, crafting and using a Mosasaur Tek Saddle for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved requires significant preparation, resources, and strategy. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively utilize this powerful tool to dominate the ocean's depths. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, the Mosasaur Tek Saddle is a game-changing piece of equipment that can turn the tide in even the most challenging underwater battles.