How do I craft a tek underwater tek rex saddle and use it for mounted combat in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Crafting and using a Tek Underwater Rex Saddle in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex process that requires advanced preparation, resources, and knowledge of the game's mechanics. This saddle is a high-tier item that allows you to ride a Rex underwater, providing unique combat advantages in aquatic environments. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use this saddle effectively.

To begin, you must first unlock the Tek Underwater Rex Saddle engram. This engram is available at level 100 and requires 35 Engram Points to unlock. However, you also need to defeat certain bosses to gain access to Tekgrams, which are required for crafting Tek items. Specifically, you must defeat the Alpha Dragon, Alpha Broodmother, or Alpha Megapithecus to unlock the necessary Tekgrams. Once unlocked, you can craft the saddle at a Tek Replicator, which itself requires Element to operate.

The resource requirements for crafting the Tek Underwater Rex Saddle are substantial. You will need 500 Metal Ingots, 250 Polymer, 200 Crystal, 100 Cementing Paste, and 75 Element. Gathering these resources can be time-consuming, so it is advisable to use tamed dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for metal and crystal, Beavers or Megatherium for cementing paste, and Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku or harvesting Obsidian and Organic Polymer from certain creatures. Element is obtained by defeating bosses or harvesting it from Tek creatures in the late game.

Once you have crafted the saddle, you can equip it on a Rex. However, the Rex must be tamed and leveled appropriately to handle underwater combat. Rexes are not naturally aquatic creatures, so you will need to ensure they have sufficient oxygen and health stats to survive underwater. Leveling up oxygen and health is crucial, as underwater combat can be dangerous due to the presence of aggressive creatures like Mosasaurs, Plesiosaurs, and Tusoteuthis.

When using the Tek Underwater Rex Saddle, you gain the ability to breathe underwater while mounted, which is a significant advantage. The saddle also provides armor and protection for the Rex, making it more durable in combat. However, you must be cautious of the Rex's stamina, as it will deplete faster underwater. Managing stamina by allowing the Rex to rest periodically is essential to avoid being stranded in dangerous situations.

In terms of combat strategies, the Tek Underwater Rex Saddle allows you to engage in mounted combat with powerful underwater creatures. The Rex's bite attack is highly effective, but you should avoid prolonged fights with creatures like the Tusoteuthis, which can grapple and immobilize your Rex. Instead, focus on hit-and-run tactics, using the Rex's mobility to your advantage. Additionally, you can use the saddle's Tek abilities, such as the Tek Rifle, to deal ranged damage to enemies.

One common mistake to avoid is underestimating the dangers of underwater combat. Even with a Tek Underwater Rex Saddle, you are not invincible. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid engaging multiple enemies at once. Another mistake is neglecting to prepare backup resources, such as extra Element or healing items, in case of emergencies. Running out of Element mid-combat can leave you vulnerable, so always carry extra supplies.

Advanced techniques include using the Tek Underwater Rex Saddle in conjunction with other Tek items, such as the Tek Shield or Tek Rifle, to maximize your combat effectiveness. Additionally, you can use the saddle to explore underwater caves and retrieve valuable resources like Silica Pearls and Black Pearls. These resources are essential for crafting advanced items and can give you a significant advantage in the late game.

For tribe considerations, having a dedicated team to gather resources and assist in boss fights can make the process of obtaining the Tek Underwater Rex Saddle much easier. Solo players will need to focus on efficient resource gathering and taming strong dinosaurs to handle boss fights alone. In both cases, proper planning and preparation are key to success.

In specific scenarios, the Tek Underwater Rex Saddle can be a game-changer. For example, during underwater cave exploration, the saddle allows you to navigate dangerous areas with relative safety, providing both mobility and combat capabilities. In PvP scenarios, the saddle can give you an edge in underwater battles, allowing you to outmaneuver and outfight opponents.

In conclusion, crafting and using a Tek Underwater Rex Saddle in ARK: Survival Evolved requires significant preparation and knowledge of the game's mechanics. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively utilize this powerful item to dominate underwater environments and gain a strategic advantage in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Always remember to manage your resources carefully, prepare for potential dangers, and use advanced techniques to maximize your effectiveness.