How do I craft a tek rifle for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Crafting a Tek Rifle for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex process that requires advanced progression and preparation. The Tek Rifle is a high-tier weapon that uses Element as ammunition, making it one of the most powerful tools in the game. It is particularly useful for underwater combat due to its high damage output and versatility. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use the Tek Rifle effectively, along with important tips and considerations.

To craft a Tek Rifle, you must first unlock its engram. The Tek Rifle engram is available at level 100 and requires 35 Engram Points to unlock. However, you cannot unlock it immediately upon reaching level 100. You must defeat certain bosses to gain access to Tekgrams, which are special engrams tied to Tek-tier items. Specifically, you need to defeat the Broodmother Lysrix, Megapithecus, or Dragon boss to unlock the Tek Rifle engram. These bosses are found in the game's boss arenas, and defeating them requires a well-prepared team or a strong army of tamed dinosaurs.

Once you have unlocked the Tek Rifle engram, you will need the following resources to craft it: 250 Metal Ingots, 150 Polymer, 100 Crystal, 50 Electronics, and 50 Element. These resources are not easy to gather, especially Element, which is obtained by defeating bosses or completing certain endgame activities. Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge, Polymer can be crafted from Obsidian and Cementing Paste or harvested from creatures like Kairuku and Mantis, Crystal is mined from crystal nodes, and Electronics are crafted from Metal Ingots and Silica Pearls.

Crafting the Tek Rifle requires a Tek Replicator, which is a high-tier crafting station. To build a Tek Replicator, you need 200 Metal Ingots, 100 Polymer, 100 Crystal, 100 Electronics, and 50 Element. The Tek Replicator itself requires a significant amount of resources, so plan accordingly. Once you have the Tek Replicator, place it in a secure location, preferably inside a well-defended base, as it is a valuable and expensive structure.

After crafting the Tek Rifle, you will need Element to use it. Element is consumed as ammunition, and each shot costs a small amount. You can carry Element in your inventory or store it in the Tek Rifle itself. Keep in mind that Element is a rare resource, so use the Tek Rifle sparingly and only in situations where its power is necessary, such as underwater combat or boss fights.

Underwater combat in ARK is particularly challenging due to limited mobility and the presence of dangerous creatures like Tusoteuthis, Mosasaurs, and Electrophorus. The Tek Rifle is an excellent choice for underwater combat because it deals high damage and has a long range, allowing you to take out threats before they get too close. However, you must be cautious when using it underwater, as the reduced movement speed can make you an easy target for fast predators.

One important tip for underwater combat is to use a strong underwater mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a Tuso. These creatures provide mobility and protection, allowing you to focus on using the Tek Rifle effectively. Additionally, consider wearing SCUBA gear or Tek Armor to improve your underwater survivability. Tek Armor, in particular, provides oxygen and movement speed bonuses, making it ideal for underwater combat.

A common mistake to avoid is underestimating the resource requirements for crafting and using the Tek Rifle. Gathering the necessary materials can take a significant amount of time, especially if you are playing solo. To optimize your resource gathering, use tamed dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for Metal and Crystal, Doedicurus for Stone, and Beavers or Mammoths for Wood. Additionally, consider setting up resource outposts near rich resource nodes to streamline the gathering process.

For tribes, coordinating resource gathering and boss fights is essential. Assign roles to tribe members, such as gatherers, fighters, and crafters, to ensure efficient progression. When fighting bosses, bring a mix of strong tames like Rexes, Therizinos, and Yutyrannus to maximize your chances of success. Communication and preparation are key to defeating bosses and unlocking Tekgrams.

In summary, crafting and using a Tek Rifle for underwater combat in ARK: Survival Evolved requires advanced progression, careful resource management, and strategic planning. Unlock the Tek Rifle engram by defeating bosses, gather the necessary resources, and craft the weapon in a Tek Replicator. Use the Tek Rifle wisely in underwater combat, supported by strong mounts and protective gear. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating resource requirements, and optimize your gameplay by coordinating with your tribe or using efficient gathering methods. With the right preparation, the Tek Rifle can be a game-changing weapon in your arsenal.