How do I craft a water reservoir in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Crafting a water reservoir in ARK: Survival Evolved is an essential step for ensuring a steady supply of water, especially in areas where natural water sources are scarce or inaccessible. The water reservoir is a structure that collects rainwater, allowing you to store and distribute water to your base or other structures. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to craft and use a water reservoir effectively.

To begin, you need to unlock the water reservoir engram. This is available at level 15 and costs 6 engram points. Once unlocked, you can craft the water reservoir at a smithy or fabricator. The crafting recipe requires 75 metal ingots, 15 cementing paste, and 30 hide. Metal ingots are obtained by smelting metal ore in a forge, cementing paste can be crafted from chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle or obtained from beaver dams, and hide is gathered from hunting animals.

Once you have the necessary materials, craft the water reservoir. The next step is to place it in your base or desired location. The water reservoir must be placed on a foundation or a ceiling tile, as it cannot be placed directly on the ground. It also needs to be connected to a water source, such as a water pipe, to function properly. To set up the water system, you will need to craft and place water pipes, a water intake, and possibly a tap or other water outlets.

Start by placing a water intake in a nearby water source, such as a river or lake. The water intake must be submerged in water to function. Then, connect the water intake to the water reservoir using water pipes. Water pipes can be snapped together to create a network that transports water from the intake to the reservoir. Ensure that the pipes are properly connected and that there are no gaps or breaks in the line. Once the water intake and pipes are set up, the reservoir will begin to fill with water.

One important consideration is the placement of the water reservoir. It should be placed in an open area where it can collect rainwater. The reservoir has a large surface area, so placing it under a roof or in a confined space will prevent it from collecting rainwater. Additionally, ensure that the reservoir is elevated enough to allow water to flow through the pipes and reach other structures, such as taps or irrigation systems.

A common mistake is not properly connecting the water intake to the reservoir. If the pipes are not correctly aligned or if there is a break in the line, the reservoir will not fill with water. Always double-check the connections and ensure that the water intake is fully submerged. Another mistake is placing the reservoir in a location where it cannot collect rainwater, such as under a roof or in a cave. This will limit its functionality and require you to rely solely on the water intake for filling.

For advanced players, optimizing the water system can involve creating multiple reservoirs and connecting them to a central water network. This ensures a steady supply of water even during dry periods or if one reservoir is damaged. You can also use irrigation systems to distribute water to crops, ensuring that your farm remains hydrated and productive. Additionally, consider using a water tank, which can store more water than a reservoir and is useful for larger bases or tribes.

Resource management is crucial when setting up a water system. Metal ingots and cementing paste are valuable resources, so plan your crafting carefully to avoid wasting materials. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your tribe members to gather the necessary resources and set up the water system efficiently. Solo players may need to prioritize gathering metal and cementing paste early on to ensure they can craft the reservoir and pipes without delay.

In specific scenarios, such as building a base in a desert or mountainous area, a water reservoir becomes even more critical. These biomes often lack natural water sources, making the reservoir your primary means of obtaining water. In such cases, consider placing multiple reservoirs and intakes to ensure a reliable water supply. Additionally, taming creatures like the Castoroides (beaver) can help you gather cementing paste more efficiently, as they produce it when harvesting wood.

In conclusion, crafting and setting up a water reservoir in ARK: Survival Evolved involves careful planning and resource management. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a steady supply of water for your base, crops, and tamed creatures. Avoid common mistakes like improper placement or faulty connections, and consider advanced techniques like creating a centralized water network for larger bases. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, a well-designed water system is essential for long-term survival and success in the game.