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

Crafting and using a Tek Grenade Launcher for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex but rewarding process that requires advanced preparation, resource gathering, and strategic planning. The Tek Grenade Launcher is a high-tier weapon that excels in both PvE and PvP scenarios, especially in underwater environments where traditional weapons may be less effective. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use this powerful tool effectively.

To begin, you must first unlock the Tek Grenade Launcher engram. This engram is available at level 100 and requires 35 Engram Points to unlock. However, you cannot simply learn this engram by leveling up. You must defeat the Dragon boss on Alpha difficulty to gain access to the Tek Tier engrams, including the Tek Grenade Launcher. This means you will need to prepare for a boss fight, which involves gathering artifacts, tributes, and assembling a strong team of tamed creatures or tribe members.

Once you have unlocked the engram, you can craft the Tek Grenade Launcher. The crafting process requires a Tek Replicator, which itself is a high-tier crafting station that requires Element to operate. The Tek Grenade Launcher requires the following resources: 200 Element, 500 Metal Ingots, 200 Polymer, and 100 Crystal. These materials are not easy to come by, so you will need to plan ahead. Element is obtained by defeating bosses or harvesting it from specific nodes in the Genesis and Extinction maps. Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge or Industrial Forge, Polymer can be harvested from organic sources like Kairuku or crafted using Obsidian and Cementing Paste, and Crystal is mined from crystal nodes found in caves or mountains.

Once crafted, the Tek Grenade Launcher uses Tek Grenades as ammunition. Tek Grenades are crafted in the Tek Replicator and require 1 Element, 10 Gunpowder, and 5 Metal Ingots per grenade. This makes them expensive to produce, so you should use them sparingly and strategically. The grenades deal significant explosive damage and can be used to clear groups of enemies or destroy structures. However, they have a limited range and a slight delay before detonation, so timing and positioning are crucial.

For underwater combat, the Tek Grenade Launcher is particularly effective because it does not suffer from the same limitations as traditional ranged weapons. Underwater, bows and firearms are less effective due to reduced accuracy and damage. The Tek Grenade Launcher, however, can be used to target and eliminate threats like Megalodons, Tusoteuthis, or even enemy players in underwater bases. Its explosive damage can also be used to break through underwater structures, making it a valuable tool for raiding.

When using the Tek Grenade Launcher underwater, there are several important tips to keep in mind. First, always be aware of your surroundings. The explosive radius of the grenades can damage you or your tames if you are too close to the blast. Second, use the environment to your advantage. Underwater caves and tight spaces can amplify the damage of the grenades, making them more effective against clustered enemies. Third, consider using a fast underwater mount like a Basilosaurus or a Tuso to maneuver quickly and avoid retaliation from aggressive creatures.

Common mistakes to avoid include overusing the Tek Grenade Launcher in situations where it is not necessary. Since the grenades are expensive to craft, you should reserve them for high-value targets or critical moments. Additionally, avoid firing the grenades at close range, as the splash damage can be deadly to you and your tames. Always maintain a safe distance and use cover when possible.

Advanced techniques for using the Tek Grenade Launcher include combining it with other Tek Tier equipment. For example, using a Tek Suit can enhance your mobility underwater, allowing you to position yourself more effectively for grenade shots. You can also use the Tek Grenade Launcher in conjunction with other explosives, such as C4, to maximize damage output during raids or boss fights.

Resource management is critical when using the Tek Grenade Launcher. Since Element is a finite resource, you should prioritize its use for high-impact situations. Consider farming Element from bosses or using Element Shards from Extinction to reduce the cost of crafting Tek Grenades. Additionally, always have a backup plan in case you run out of grenades during a fight.

For tribe play, the Tek Grenade Launcher can be a game-changer. Assigning roles within your tribe, such as a dedicated grenadier, can optimize its use. Coordinate with your tribe members to create diversions or set up ambushes, using the grenades to deal massive damage to enemy forces. In solo play, the Tek Grenade Launcher can still be effective, but you will need to be more cautious and strategic in its use.

In specific scenarios, such as defending an underwater base or raiding an enemyÔÇÖs underwater outpost, the Tek Grenade Launcher can turn the tide of battle. For example, if you are defending your base from a swarm of Megalodons, a well-placed grenade can eliminate multiple threats at once. Conversely, if you are raiding an enemy base, the grenades can destroy their defenses and create openings for further attacks.

In conclusion, the Tek Grenade Launcher is a powerful tool for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved, but it requires careful planning and resource management to use effectively. By following the steps outlined above, you can craft and utilize this weapon to dominate underwater environments and gain a significant advantage in both PvE and PvP scenarios.