What are the best ways to avoid being killed by megalodons in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Megalodons are one of the most common threats in the waters of ARK: Survival Evolved, and avoiding or surviving encounters with them is crucial for early-game players and even experienced survivors. These aggressive sharks are fast, deal significant damage, and often travel in packs, making them a formidable danger. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to avoid being killed by megalodons, covering mechanics, strategies, and preparation.

First, understanding megalodon behavior is key. Megalodons are territorial and will attack anything that enters their range, including players, tamed creatures, and even other aquatic predators. They are most commonly found in shallow to mid-depth waters, especially around coastal areas and underwater caves. They are fast swimmers, so escaping them on foot or with a slow aquatic mount can be difficult. Their attacks deal high damage, and they can quickly overwhelm unprepared players.

To avoid megalodons, the simplest strategy is to stay out of the water whenever possible. Early in the game, avoid swimming in deep or murky waters where megalodons are likely to spawn. Stick to shallow areas or use rafts to travel across water. Rafts are a safe early-game option because megalodons cannot attack them directly, though they may still aggro and follow you. Be cautious when approaching deeper waters, as megalodons can still damage your raft if you get too close.

If you must enter the water, preparation is essential. Crafting a set of flippers (scuba flippers or flippers from the Scuba Gear set) will significantly increase your swimming speed, making it easier to outrun megalodons. Additionally, carrying a spear or crossbow can help you fend them off if they attack. However, melee combat in water is risky due to the megalodonÔÇÖs speed and damage output, so ranged weapons are preferred.

Taming a strong aquatic mount is one of the best ways to deal with megalodons. Early-game options include the Ichthyosaurus, which is fast and can outswim megalodons, or the Sarco, which is slower but has higher health and damage. Later in the game, taming a Basilosaurus or a Mosasaurus will make you nearly invincible in the water, as these creatures can easily kill megalodons and other threats. Always ensure your mount has enough health and stamina before venturing into dangerous waters.

When exploring underwater caves or resource-rich areas, always scout the area first. Megalodons often lurk near these locations, and entering blindly can lead to ambushes. Use a fast mount to quickly survey the area and identify any threats. If you encounter a megalodon, try to lure it away from the area you need to explore, or kill it before proceeding.

In PvP scenarios, megalodons can be used as weapons by other players. Some tribes may tame and level megalodons to guard their underwater bases or ambush enemies. To counter this, always approach underwater areas with caution, especially if you suspect enemy activity. Use a strong mount and bring backup weapons or allies if possible.

Common mistakes include underestimating the speed and damage of megalodons, especially in groups. Swimming without a mount or proper gear is a sure way to get killed. Another mistake is ignoring the warning signs, such as seeing a megalodon in the distance and assuming it wonÔÇÖt attack. Always assume megalodons are hostile and act accordingly.

Advanced techniques involve using environmental advantages. For example, megalodons cannot follow you onto land or into very shallow water. If youÔÇÖre being chased, try to lead them to a shoreline or shallow area where they canÔÇÖt reach you. Additionally, using underwater traps or taming a pack of strong aquatic creatures can help you clear out megalodon-infested areas.

Resource requirements for dealing with megalodons include flippers, weapons, and saddles for aquatic mounts. Early-game players should prioritize crafting a crossbow and tranq arrows for taming mounts, as well as gathering materials for flippers. Later, investing in Scuba Gear or Tek Armor will make underwater exploration much safer.

For solo players, the key is preparation and caution. Always have an escape plan, such as a fast mount or a nearby safe area. For tribes, coordinating with teammates to clear out dangerous areas or guard each other during underwater expeditions can make survival much easier.

In specific scenarios, such as hunting for underwater resources or taming aquatic creatures, always prioritize safety. For example, when hunting for pearls or oil, use a fast mount to quickly gather resources and retreat if a megalodon appears. When taming a Basilosaurus, which is often surrounded by megalodons, clear out the threats first or use a strong mount to protect yourself during the taming process.

By following these strategies and staying prepared, you can avoid being killed by megalodons and safely navigate the dangerous waters of ARK: Survival Evolved.