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

Crafting and using a Tek Light for underwater illumination in ARK: Survival Evolved involves several steps, from gathering the necessary resources to understanding how to deploy and maintain the light effectively. The Tek Light is a high-tech item that provides bright illumination and is particularly useful for underwater bases or areas where traditional lighting is insufficient. Below is a detailed guide to help you achieve this.

To begin, you must first unlock the Tek Light engram. This requires defeating certain bosses to obtain the necessary Tekgrams. The Tek Light engram is unlocked after defeating the Broodmother Lysrix, Megapithecus, or Dragon boss. Once unlocked, you can craft the Tek Light at a Tek Replicator, which itself requires Element to power. Element is a rare resource obtained from boss fights or by crafting it in a Tek Replicator using Element Shards, which are found in specific locations like the Genesis Simulation or Extinction map.

The resources needed to craft a Tek Light include 100 Metal Ingots, 50 Crystal, 25 Polymer, and 10 Element. Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge, Crystal is gathered from rocks in mountainous areas, Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku or harvesting Obsidian, and Element is acquired as mentioned earlier. Once you have gathered these resources, place them in the Tek Replicator and craft the Tek Light.

Deploying the Tek Light underwater requires careful planning. Unlike regular structures, Tek Lights can be placed on most surfaces, including underwater. However, you must ensure the area is clear of obstructions and that the light has a stable surface to attach to. To place the Tek Light, equip it from your inventory and aim at the desired location. The light will snap to the surface, and you can adjust its position as needed. Once placed, the Tek Light will automatically activate and provide illumination.

One important consideration is powering the Tek Light. Tek structures, including the Tek Light, require Element to function. Each Tek Light consumes Element over time, so you must ensure a steady supply. For underwater bases, it is advisable to have a dedicated storage area for Element or a system to replenish it regularly. You can also connect the Tek Light to a Tek Generator, which provides a continuous power source but also requires Element to operate.

Common mistakes to avoid include placing the Tek Light in areas with high traffic or where it might be easily destroyed by hostile creatures or players. Additionally, failing to secure a steady supply of Element can result in the light turning off, leaving your base in darkness. Always plan your resource management carefully and consider the placement of your Tek Lights to maximize their effectiveness.

Advanced techniques involve using multiple Tek Lights to create a well-lit underwater base. By strategically placing lights at key points, you can ensure complete coverage and minimize shadows. You can also use the Tek Light's color settings to customize the ambiance of your base. This is particularly useful for creating distinct areas or signaling specific zones within your base.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial. Before attempting to craft a Tek Light, ensure you have a reliable source of Element and the necessary crafting materials. This may involve setting up a base near resource-rich areas or taming dinosaurs that can help gather materials more efficiently. For example, an Ankylosaurus is excellent for gathering Metal and Crystal, while a Doedicurus is ideal for harvesting Stone.

Tribe and solo considerations differ slightly. In a tribe, you can delegate tasks such as resource gathering and Element farming to different members, making the process more efficient. Solo players must manage all aspects themselves, so it is essential to prioritize tasks and plan ahead. For example, you might focus on taming resource-gathering dinosaurs before attempting to craft Tek Lights.

Specific examples and scenarios include setting up an underwater base in the ocean biome. Here, Tek Lights are invaluable for illuminating the dark depths and providing visibility for taming aquatic creatures like the Mosasaurus or Tusoteuthis. Another scenario is creating an underwater farming area for resources like Silica Pearls or Oil, where proper lighting can make harvesting more efficient and safer.

In conclusion, crafting and using a Tek Light for underwater illumination in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic placement. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively light up your underwater base and enhance your survival experience. Always consider the power requirements, placement, and resource availability to ensure your Tek Lights remain functional and beneficial.