What are the best strategies for surviving in the underwater ruins in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Surviving in the underwater ruins in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and a solid understanding of the game's mechanics. The underwater ruins are some of the most dangerous areas in the game due to the presence of hostile creatures like Megalodons, Electrophorus, and Cnidaria, as well as the constant need to manage oxygen levels. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you navigate and survive these treacherous environments.

First, you need to prepare your character and equipment. Start by leveling up your oxygen stat to at least 300, as this will allow you to stay underwater for extended periods. Additionally, invest in stamina to ensure you can swim quickly and escape danger when needed. Craft a set of scuba gear, which includes a scuba tank, mask, fins, and leggings. This gear significantly reduces oxygen consumption and increases swimming speed, making it essential for underwater exploration. If scuba gear is not available, Lazarus Chowder can temporarily boost your oxygen levels, but it is not a long-term solution.

Next, tame aquatic creatures to assist you. A strong mount like a Basilosaurus or a Tuso (Tusoteuthis) is ideal for underwater exploration. The Basilosaurus is immune to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus, making it a safe choice for navigating dangerous waters. The Tuso, on the other hand, is a powerful predator that can handle most threats but requires more effort to tame. If you are early in the game, a Megalodon or an Ichthyosaurus can serve as a decent starting mount, though they are less effective against stronger enemies.

Before heading to the ruins, gather essential resources. Bring medical brews or custom consumables to heal quickly in case of emergencies. Stock up on food and water, as underwater exploration can be time-consuming. Additionally, carry a crossbow or harpoon gun for ranged combat, as well as a pike or sword for close-quarters fights. Grappling hooks can be useful for escaping tight situations, especially if you are separated from your mount.

When exploring the ruins, always stay alert. The underwater ruins are often filled with aggressive creatures, so keep your mount close and ready to fight. Use the terrain to your advantage by hiding behind rocks or coral to avoid detection. If you encounter a large group of enemies, try to lure them away one by one rather than engaging them all at once. This tactic is especially useful when dealing with packs of Megalodons or swarms of Electrophorus.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the deep. Many players dive into the ruins without proper preparation, only to be overwhelmed by the hostile wildlife or run out of oxygen. Always scout the area from a safe distance before committing to an exploration. Use your mount to test the waters and identify potential threats. Additionally, avoid staying in one place for too long, as creatures can spawn nearby and catch you off guard.

Advanced techniques include using underwater bases or taming multiple aquatic creatures for different roles. For example, a pack of Megalodons can provide additional firepower, while a Diplocaulus can be used for quick oxygen recovery. Building a small underwater base near the ruins can serve as a safe haven for storing resources and recovering health. However, this requires significant resources and time, so it is more suitable for long-term exploration.

Resource management is crucial when exploring underwater ruins. Prioritize gathering silica pearls, oil, and black pearls, as these are valuable resources found in the depths. Use your mountÔÇÖs inventory to carry as much as possible, but be mindful of weight limits. If you are playing solo, consider making multiple trips to avoid overburdening yourself. In a tribe, assign roles to each member, such as one person focusing on combat while another gathers resources.

In summary, surviving in the underwater ruins requires careful preparation, the right equipment, and a strong aquatic mount. Always stay alert, use the terrain to your advantage, and avoid common mistakes like underestimating the dangers or overextending your resources. With the right strategy, you can successfully navigate the ruins and reap the rewards they offer. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, teamwork and preparation are key to conquering the depths of ARK: Survival Evolved.