What are the best early-game tames for gathering resources in ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, early-game tames are crucial for gathering resources efficiently and surviving the harsh environment. The best early-game tames for resource gathering are the Trike, Parasaur, and Ankylosaurus. Each of these dinosaurs excels in specific resource collection tasks, making them invaluable for new players.

The Trike, or Triceratops, is one of the first dinosaurs you should aim to tame. It is excellent for gathering thatch and berries, which are essential for crafting narcotics and sustaining your food supply. To tame a Trike, you will need a slingshot or bow with tranq arrows, as well as narcoberries or narcotics to keep it unconscious. Approach the Trike carefully, as it can deal significant damage if it charges. Once tamed, the Trike can gather large amounts of berries quickly, making it a great companion for early-game survival.

The Parasaur is another excellent early-game tame, particularly for gathering fiber and thatch. It is relatively easy to tame, requiring only a few tranq arrows or a slingshot. The Parasaur is also useful for scouting and carrying resources, as it has a decent weight capacity. While it is not as strong as the Trike, its speed and versatility make it a valuable addition to your early-game arsenal.

The Ankylosaurus is a bit more challenging to tame but is worth the effort for its ability to gather metal and flint efficiently. Metal is a critical resource for crafting advanced tools and structures, so having an Ankylosaurus early on can significantly speed up your progression. To tame an Ankylosaurus, you will need a bow with tranq arrows and a good supply of narcotics. Be cautious when approaching, as the Ankylosaurus can deal heavy damage with its tail. Once tamed, it can gather large amounts of metal and flint, making it an essential tool for resource gathering.

When taming these dinosaurs, it is important to prepare adequately. Ensure you have enough tranq arrows or slingshot ammo, as well as narcoberries or narcotics to keep the dinosaur unconscious. Building a small taming pen can help secure the dinosaur and prevent it from escaping or being attacked by other creatures. Use stone or wood structures to create a pen with a gate, lure the dinosaur inside, and then close the gate to trap it. This method makes taming safer and more manageable.

Resource management is key in the early game. Focus on gathering the necessary materials for taming, such as stone, wood, and fiber. Crafting a bow and tranq arrows should be a priority, as they are more effective than the slingshot for taming larger dinosaurs. Additionally, always carry a supply of food and water to sustain yourself during the taming process.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the strength of the dinosaurs you are trying to tame and not preparing adequately. Always approach taming with caution and ensure you have the necessary tools and resources. Another mistake is neglecting to build a taming pen, which can lead to the dinosaur escaping or being killed by other creatures.

Advanced techniques for taming include using kibble, which is a more effective taming food than berries or meat. Kibble can be crafted using eggs from specific dinosaurs and other ingredients, and it significantly reduces taming time and increases taming effectiveness. However, kibble requires more preparation and resources, so it may not be feasible in the very early game.

Tribe considerations are also important. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your tribe members to gather resources and tame dinosaurs more efficiently. Assign roles to each member, such as one person gathering materials while another focuses on taming. This division of labor can speed up progression and ensure that all necessary tasks are completed.

In solo play, focus on taming dinosaurs that can handle multiple tasks, such as the Trike, which can gather berries and thatch, and the Ankylosaurus, which can gather metal and flint. Prioritize building a secure base and taming pen to protect your dinosaurs and resources from predators.

Specific scenarios include taming a Trike near a forested area where berries are abundant, or taming an Ankylosaurus near a mountain where metal nodes are plentiful. Always scout the area for potential threats before starting the taming process, and be prepared to defend yourself and your dinosaur from aggressive creatures.

In conclusion, early-game tames like the Trike, Parasaur, and Ankylosaurus are essential for efficient resource gathering in ARK: Survival Evolved. Proper preparation, resource management, and strategic planning are key to successful taming and survival. By following these tips and strategies, you can establish a strong foundation for your progression in the game.