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

Crafting and using Tek Gauntlets for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved is a late-game endeavor that requires significant preparation, resources, and knowledge of the game's mechanics. Tek Gauntlets are part of the Tek Tier, the most advanced technology in ARK, and they provide unique abilities that can be extremely useful in underwater combat. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use Tek Gauntlets effectively in underwater scenarios.

To begin, you must first unlock the Tek Gauntlets engram. This is done by defeating certain bosses in the game, such as the Broodmother, Megapithecus, or Dragon, depending on the map you are playing on. Once you have defeated the boss and obtained the required Tekgrams, you can unlock the engram for Tek Gauntlets. These gauntlets are crafted at a Tek Replicator, which itself requires a significant amount of resources and preparation to build. The Tek Replicator is powered by Element, a rare resource obtained from boss fights or by harvesting Element Shards in specific areas of the map.

The resources required to craft Tek Gauntlets include 200 Metal Ingots, 100 Polymer, 50 Crystal, 50 Electronics, and 20 Element. Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge or Industrial Forge, while Polymer can be obtained from killing creatures like Kairuku or by crafting it using Obsidian and Cementing Paste. Crystal is mined from crystal nodes, and Electronics are crafted from Metal Ingots and Silica Pearls. Element is the most challenging resource to obtain, as it requires defeating bosses or harvesting Element Shards in dangerous areas like the Tek Cave or the Genesis Simulation.

Once you have crafted the Tek Gauntlets, you can equip them in your character's armor slot. The Tek Gauntlets provide several unique abilities, including a powerful punch attack that deals significant damage and can knock back enemies. This punch attack is particularly useful in underwater combat, where melee weapons like swords or pikes are less effective due to the reduced mobility and slower attack speed underwater. The gauntlets also allow you to harvest resources more efficiently, such as breaking rocks or gathering organic polymer from Kairuku.

When using Tek Gauntlets for underwater combat, it is important to consider your surroundings and the creatures you are facing. Underwater environments in ARK are home to dangerous predators like Megalodons, Tusoteuthis, and Electrophorus, which can quickly overwhelm an unprepared player. The Tek Gauntlets' punch attack can be used to fend off these creatures, but you must be careful not to get surrounded or caught in a tight space where you cannot maneuver effectively. Additionally, the gauntlets consume Element Shards as fuel, so you must ensure you have a sufficient supply before venturing into the depths.

One common mistake players make when using Tek Gauntlets underwater is underestimating the stamina drain from swimming and attacking. The punch attack consumes stamina, and if you run out of stamina while underwater, you will be unable to swim or attack, leaving you vulnerable to predators. To avoid this, always keep an eye on your stamina bar and consider using a Lazarus Chowder or Focal Chili to boost your stamina regeneration. Additionally, wearing SCUBA gear or using a Tek Helmet with oxygen capabilities can help you stay underwater longer without worrying about drowning.

Advanced techniques for using Tek Gauntlets underwater include combining them with other Tek items, such as the Tek Leggings or Tek Chestpiece. The Tek Leggings allow you to perform a super jump, which can be used to quickly escape from dangerous situations or close the distance to an enemy. The Tek Chestpiece provides a jetpack function, allowing you to hover or fly short distances, which can be useful for navigating underwater terrain or avoiding attacks from creatures like the Tusoteuthis. Combining these abilities with the Tek Gauntlets' punch attack can make you a formidable force in underwater combat.

Resource management is crucial when using Tek Gauntlets, as they require Element Shards to function. Element Shards are a finite resource, so you must plan your underwater expeditions carefully to avoid running out of fuel at a critical moment. Consider bringing a backup weapon, such as a Crossbow or Harpoon Launcher, in case your gauntlets run out of Element Shards. Additionally, always carry extra Element Shards in your inventory or on a tamed creature like a Basilosaurus, which can provide a safe haven and storage for your resources while underwater.

In terms of tribe or solo considerations, using Tek Gauntlets underwater can be more effective in a tribe setting, where you can coordinate with other players to cover each other's weaknesses. For example, one player can use the Tek Gauntlets to engage enemies in close combat, while another player provides ranged support with a Harpoon Launcher or Tek Rifle. In a solo setting, you must be more cautious and rely on your tamed creatures for support. Taming a strong underwater mount like a Mosasaur or Tusoteuthis can provide additional firepower and protection while you focus on using the Tek Gauntlets.

Specific examples of using Tek Gauntlets underwater include clearing out underwater caves, which are often filled with dangerous creatures and valuable resources. The gauntlets' punch attack can quickly dispatch enemies like Eurypterids or Cnidaria, allowing you to harvest resources like Silica Pearls or Oil without interruption. Another scenario is defending your underwater base from hostile creatures or rival players. The Tek Gauntlets' knockback ability can be used to push enemies away from your base, giving you time to regroup or call for reinforcements.

In conclusion, crafting and using Tek Gauntlets for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, resource management, and a good understanding of the game's mechanics. By following the steps outlined above and considering the tips and strategies provided, you can effectively use Tek Gauntlets to dominate underwater environments and overcome the challenges they present. Whether you are playing solo or as part of a tribe, the Tek Gauntlets are a powerful tool that can give you a significant advantage in the dangerous world of ARK.