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. Oxygen is the most critical resource underwater, so prioritize leveling up your Oxygen stat. This will allow you to stay submerged longer and move faster in the water. Additionally, invest in a good set of SCUBA gear, which includes a SCUBA tank, mask, fins, and leggings. The SCUBA gear significantly extends your underwater breathing time and improves your swimming speed. If you donÔÇÖt have access to SCUBA gear, Lazarus Chowder is a useful consumable that boosts your oxygen levels temporarily.

Next, consider your weapons and tools. Underwater combat is challenging, so bring a crossbow or harpoon gun with tranq arrows or spears for dealing with aggressive creatures. A Pike is also useful for close-quarters combat. For defense, carry a shield to block attacks from creatures like Electrophorus or Cnidaria, which can stun you and leave you vulnerable. Additionally, bring a few grappling hooks to escape dangerous situations quickly.

Taming a strong aquatic dinosaur is essential for surviving underwater. The Basilosaurus is one of the best choices because it is immune to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus, making it a reliable mount for exploring ruins. Other good options include the Megalodon for combat or the Ichthyosaurus for speed. Make sure your mount has high health and stamina to handle prolonged underwater exploration and combat.

Before heading to the ruins, scout the area from the surface to identify potential threats and plan your route. Use a spyglass to observe the creatures around the ruins and mark any dangerous areas. Once youÔÇÖre ready, dive in with your mount and stay close to it at all times. Avoid swimming alone, as you are much more vulnerable without a mount.

When exploring the ruins, keep an eye out for loot crates, which often contain valuable items like blueprints, weapons, and resources. However, be cautious when approaching these crates, as they are often guarded by hostile creatures. Use your mount to clear the area before looting. If you encounter a large group of enemies, consider using a combination of hit-and-run tactics and kiting to thin their numbers.

Resource management is crucial underwater. Bring plenty of food and water, as well as medical brews or stimulants to recover health and stamina. If youÔÇÖre using SCUBA gear, monitor your oxygen levels and return to the surface or your mount before running out. Always carry extra fuel for your SCUBA tank to avoid being stranded without oxygen.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the dangers of underwater creatures, neglecting to bring backup gear, and failing to plan your route. Many players also make the mistake of exploring alone without a mount, which significantly increases the risk of death. Always have an escape plan, such as a grappling hook or a fast mount, in case things go wrong.

For advanced players, consider using a team of tamed dinosaurs to explore the ruins. A pack of Megalodons or a mix of Basilosaurus and Tusoteuthis can provide both offense and defense. Additionally, use underwater structures like air pockets or temporary bases to store supplies and take breaks during long expeditions. These bases can be built using foundations, walls, and ceilings, and should include a bed for respawning if you die.

In summary, surviving in the underwater ruins requires careful preparation, the right equipment, and a strong aquatic mount. Prioritize oxygen management, bring appropriate weapons and tools, and always stay alert for threats. With the right strategy, you can safely explore the ruins, gather valuable resources, and emerge victorious from the depths of ARKÔÇÖs oceans.