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. Underwater survival heavily relies on having the right gear. Craft a set of SCUBA gear, which includes a tank, mask, fins, and leggings. The SCUBA tank is essential for extending your oxygen supply, while the fins increase your swimming speed. The mask improves underwater visibility, and the leggings provide insulation against cold temperatures. If you donÔÇÖt have access to SCUBA gear yet, Lazarus Chowder can temporarily boost your oxygen levels, but itÔÇÖs not a long-term solution. Additionally, bring a crossbow or harpoon gun for underwater combat, as ranged weapons are more effective than melee weapons in water.

Next, tame aquatic creatures to assist you. A strong underwater mount is crucial for exploration and combat. The Basilosaurus is one of the best choices due to its immunity to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus. It also has high health and decent damage output. Alternatively, the Megalodon or the Mosasaurus can be used for their combat capabilities, but they are more vulnerable to stuns. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, having a reliable mount is even more important, as it can help you escape dangerous situations or fight off predators.

Before heading to the ruins, scout the area from the surface to identify potential threats and safe entry points. Use a flying mount like an Argentavis or Pteranodon to get a birdÔÇÖs-eye view of the underwater terrain. This will help you plan your route and avoid areas with high concentrations of dangerous creatures. Once youÔÇÖre ready to dive, approach the ruins cautiously. Keep an eye on your oxygen levels and avoid staying underwater for too long without resurfacing. If youÔÇÖre using a mount, make sure it has enough stamina to swim back to the surface if needed.

When exploring the ruins, prioritize gathering valuable resources like Silica Pearls and Oil, which are often found in these areas. Silica Pearls are essential for crafting advanced electronics, while Oil is used for fuel and other crafting recipes. Be mindful of your surroundings, as hostile creatures can ambush you while youÔÇÖre distracted. Use your mount to fend off attackers, and avoid engaging multiple enemies at once. If you encounter a large group of predators, itÔÇÖs often better to retreat and regroup rather than risk losing your mount or gear.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the underwater ruins. Many players dive in without proper preparation and end up losing their gear or mounts to unexpected threats. Always bring backup supplies, such as extra oxygen tanks or healing items, in case things go wrong. Another mistake is neglecting to check your mountÔÇÖs stamina. If your mount runs out of stamina underwater, it will drown, leaving you stranded in a dangerous area. Keep an eye on its stamina bar and surface regularly to let it recover.

For advanced players, consider building an underwater base near the ruins. This can serve as a safe haven where you can store resources, craft items, and recover between expeditions. Use foundations and walls to create an airtight structure, and place a generator and air conditioner to maintain breathable air inside. An underwater base also allows you to tame and breed aquatic creatures more efficiently, giving you a steady supply of mounts and combat allies.

In terms of tribe considerations, teamwork is key when exploring underwater ruins. Assign roles to each tribe member, such as one person focusing on combat while another gathers resources. Communication is crucial, especially when dealing with fast-moving threats like Electrophorus. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, focus on taming a strong mount and always have an escape plan in case things go south.

In summary, surviving in the underwater ruins requires careful preparation, the right equipment, and a reliable mount. Scout the area beforehand, manage your oxygen levels, and avoid unnecessary risks. With the right strategy, you can safely explore these dangerous areas and gather valuable resources to aid your survival in ARK: Survival Evolved.