How do I craft a slingshot and use it for taming in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Crafting and using a slingshot in ARK: Survival Evolved is an essential early-game strategy for taming smaller creatures and defending yourself against threats. The slingshot is one of the first ranged weapons you can craft, and it is particularly useful for knocking out creatures like Dodos, Dilophosaurs, and even smaller dinosaurs like the Parasaur. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use a slingshot effectively, along with tips and strategies to maximize its potential.
To craft a slingshot, you need to unlock its engram first. The slingshot engram becomes available at level 5 and costs 3 engram points. Once unlocked, you can craft it at a crafting station or directly in your inventory. The resources required to craft a slingshot are 20 fiber, 5 wood, and 10 hide. Fiber can be gathered by punching bushes or using a sickle, wood is obtained by punching trees or using a hatchet, and hide is collected by killing small creatures like Dodos or Lystrosaurus. These resources are relatively easy to gather early in the game, making the slingshot an accessible tool for new players.
Once crafted, the slingshot uses stones as ammunition. Stones are abundant and can be collected by picking them up from the ground or mining rocks with a pickaxe. Each shot consumes one stone, so it is a good idea to carry a stack of stones with you when using the slingshot. The slingshot has a limited range and deals low damage, but its primary purpose is to inflict torpor on creatures, which is essential for taming. Torpor is a mechanic that causes creatures to become unconscious when their torpor meter fills up, allowing you to tame them by feeding them the appropriate food.
To use the slingshot for taming, you need to approach the target creature carefully. Smaller creatures like Dodos are easy to hit, but larger or more aggressive creatures like Dilophosaurs may require you to maintain distance. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain, as headshots deal more torpor than body shots. Be prepared to dodge attacks, especially from aggressive creatures, as the slingshot does not provide much protection. Once the creature is knocked out, you can begin the taming process by placing the appropriate food in its inventory. For example, Dodos prefer berries, while Dilophosaurs prefer raw meat.
One common mistake when using the slingshot is underestimating the time it takes to knock out a creature. Some creatures, like the Parasaur, have higher torpor thresholds and may require multiple hits. It is important to remain patient and avoid rushing, as this can lead to mistakes like missing shots or aggroing nearby predators. Another mistake is not preparing enough resources. Always carry extra stones and food for taming, as running out of ammunition or food can waste your efforts.
Advanced techniques for using the slingshot include kiting and using terrain to your advantage. Kiting involves luring a creature into a trap or confined space where it cannot escape or attack you easily. For example, you can lead a Dilophosaur into a narrow canyon or behind rocks to limit its movement. Terrain can also be used to block attacks or create distance between you and the creature. Additionally, you can use the slingshot to distract or lure creatures away from your base or taming area, giving you more control over the situation.
Resource management is crucial when using the slingshot. Since stones are abundant, you should always gather more than you think you will need. This ensures you do not run out of ammunition during a critical moment. Similarly, having extra food for taming is important, as some creatures may wake up before the taming process is complete. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect each other during taming. Solo players should focus on preparing thoroughly before attempting to tame larger or more dangerous creatures.
In summary, the slingshot is a versatile and accessible tool for early-game taming and defense in ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding its mechanics, preparing the necessary resources, and using advanced techniques like kiting and terrain manipulation, you can effectively tame creatures and survive the dangers of the island. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the slingshot is a valuable addition to your arsenal and a stepping stone to more advanced taming methods.
To craft a slingshot, you need to unlock its engram first. The slingshot engram becomes available at level 5 and costs 3 engram points. Once unlocked, you can craft it at a crafting station or directly in your inventory. The resources required to craft a slingshot are 20 fiber, 5 wood, and 10 hide. Fiber can be gathered by punching bushes or using a sickle, wood is obtained by punching trees or using a hatchet, and hide is collected by killing small creatures like Dodos or Lystrosaurus. These resources are relatively easy to gather early in the game, making the slingshot an accessible tool for new players.
Once crafted, the slingshot uses stones as ammunition. Stones are abundant and can be collected by picking them up from the ground or mining rocks with a pickaxe. Each shot consumes one stone, so it is a good idea to carry a stack of stones with you when using the slingshot. The slingshot has a limited range and deals low damage, but its primary purpose is to inflict torpor on creatures, which is essential for taming. Torpor is a mechanic that causes creatures to become unconscious when their torpor meter fills up, allowing you to tame them by feeding them the appropriate food.
To use the slingshot for taming, you need to approach the target creature carefully. Smaller creatures like Dodos are easy to hit, but larger or more aggressive creatures like Dilophosaurs may require you to maintain distance. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain, as headshots deal more torpor than body shots. Be prepared to dodge attacks, especially from aggressive creatures, as the slingshot does not provide much protection. Once the creature is knocked out, you can begin the taming process by placing the appropriate food in its inventory. For example, Dodos prefer berries, while Dilophosaurs prefer raw meat.
One common mistake when using the slingshot is underestimating the time it takes to knock out a creature. Some creatures, like the Parasaur, have higher torpor thresholds and may require multiple hits. It is important to remain patient and avoid rushing, as this can lead to mistakes like missing shots or aggroing nearby predators. Another mistake is not preparing enough resources. Always carry extra stones and food for taming, as running out of ammunition or food can waste your efforts.
Advanced techniques for using the slingshot include kiting and using terrain to your advantage. Kiting involves luring a creature into a trap or confined space where it cannot escape or attack you easily. For example, you can lead a Dilophosaur into a narrow canyon or behind rocks to limit its movement. Terrain can also be used to block attacks or create distance between you and the creature. Additionally, you can use the slingshot to distract or lure creatures away from your base or taming area, giving you more control over the situation.
Resource management is crucial when using the slingshot. Since stones are abundant, you should always gather more than you think you will need. This ensures you do not run out of ammunition during a critical moment. Similarly, having extra food for taming is important, as some creatures may wake up before the taming process is complete. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect each other during taming. Solo players should focus on preparing thoroughly before attempting to tame larger or more dangerous creatures.
In summary, the slingshot is a versatile and accessible tool for early-game taming and defense in ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding its mechanics, preparing the necessary resources, and using advanced techniques like kiting and terrain manipulation, you can effectively tame creatures and survive the dangers of the island. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the slingshot is a valuable addition to your arsenal and a stepping stone to more advanced taming methods.