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

Crafting and using a Tek Sword for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved is a late-game endeavor that requires significant preparation and resources. The Tek Sword is one of the most powerful melee weapons in the game, capable of dealing high damage and having unique abilities, such as a charged attack that can knock back enemies. However, it is particularly useful underwater due to its ability to function effectively in environments where other weapons might struggle. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use the Tek Sword for underwater combat.

To craft a Tek Sword, you must first unlock its engram. The Tek Sword engram is available at level 100 and requires 35 Engram Points to unlock. However, you also need to defeat certain bosses to gain access to Tekgrams, which are required to craft Tek-tier items. Specifically, you need to defeat the Broodmother Lysrix, Megapithecus, or Dragon boss to unlock the Tek Replicator engram, which is essential for crafting Tek items like the Tek Sword. Once you have the engram, you can craft the Tek Sword in a Tek Replicator.

The resource requirements for crafting a Tek Sword are substantial. You will need 200 Element, 500 Metal Ingots, 200 Polymer, and 100 Crystal. Element is a rare resource obtained by defeating bosses or completing certain end-game activities, so you will need to prepare for boss fights or explore the map for Element nodes in Extinction. Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge, Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku, Mantis, or by crafting it using Obsidian and Cementing Paste, and Crystal is mined from crystal nodes found in caves or mountains.

Once you have crafted the Tek Sword, you can use it for underwater combat. The Tek Sword is particularly effective underwater because it does not suffer from the same limitations as ranged weapons, which often have reduced accuracy or functionality underwater. The swordÔÇÖs charged attack can knock back enemies, giving you an advantage against aggressive sea creatures like Megalodons, Tusoteuthis, or even Alpha Mosasaurs. Additionally, the Tek Sword has a high durability, making it a reliable weapon for extended underwater expeditions.

When using the Tek Sword underwater, it is important to manage your oxygen levels. Equipping SCUBA gear or using Lazarus Chowder can help you stay underwater longer. Additionally, taming aquatic creatures like the Basilosaurus or Megalodon can provide you with a mount that allows you to move quickly and fight effectively underwater. The Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus, which are common threats in the ocean.

One common mistake players make when using the Tek Sword underwater is underestimating the stamina drain from swimming and fighting. Make sure to monitor your stamina and avoid overextending yourself in combat. Another mistake is not bringing backup weapons or tools. While the Tek Sword is powerful, it is not invincible, and having a backup weapon like a Crossbow or Harpoon Launcher can save you in a pinch.

Advanced techniques for using the Tek Sword underwater include combining it with other Tek-tier items. For example, using a Tek Suit can enhance your mobility and survivability underwater, allowing you to dodge attacks and reposition quickly. Additionally, using a Tek Shield can provide extra protection against ranged attacks from creatures like Eels or Jellyfish. Coordinating with a tribe can also be beneficial, as tribe members can provide support with tamed aquatic creatures or by using ranged weapons to assist in combat.

In solo play, preparation is key. Make sure to stock up on resources like Medical Brews, Stamina-boosting foods, and repair materials for your Tek Sword before heading underwater. Scouting the area beforehand with a fast aquatic mount can help you identify threats and plan your approach. In tribe scenarios, assigning roles can optimize your underwater combat efficiency. For example, one player can focus on melee combat with the Tek Sword while another provides ranged support or heals with a Daeodon.

In summary, crafting and using a Tek Sword for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved requires significant preparation, including defeating bosses, gathering rare resources, and equipping yourself with the right gear. The Tek SwordÔÇÖs high damage and knockback ability make it a formidable weapon underwater, but managing stamina, oxygen, and backup resources is crucial for success. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and coordination can maximize the effectiveness of the Tek Sword in underwater combat scenarios.