How do I craft and use a sword for melee combat in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Crafting and using a sword for melee combat in ARK: Survival Evolved is a straightforward process, but it requires preparation, resource gathering, and understanding of the game's mechanics. The sword is a powerful melee weapon that deals high damage and is effective against both creatures and players in PvP scenarios. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use a sword, along with tips and considerations to maximize its effectiveness.
To craft a sword, you must first unlock its engram. The sword engram becomes available at level 35 and costs 18 engram points to unlock. Once unlocked, you can craft the sword at a Smithy or Fabricator. The resources required to craft a sword are 15 metal ingots, 20 hide, and 50 fiber. Metal ingots are obtained by smelting metal ore in a forge, hide is gathered from killing creatures, and fiber is collected from plants like bushes or by using a sickle. Ensure you have a Smithy or Fabricator ready, as these are the only crafting stations that can produce the sword.
Once you have the necessary resources, open the Smithy or Fabricator inventory, navigate to the sword in the crafting menu, and select it to begin crafting. The process is quick, and you will soon have a sword in your inventory. Equip the sword by dragging it to your hotbar and selecting the corresponding slot. The sword has a durability of 40, meaning it can withstand 40 hits before breaking. Repairing the sword requires the same materials used to craft it, so always keep extra resources on hand.
Using the sword effectively in combat requires understanding its mechanics. The sword has a fast attack speed and deals 40 base damage per hit, making it one of the most powerful melee weapons in the game. However, it has a short range, so you must get close to your target to land hits. This can be risky, especially against larger or more aggressive creatures. To maximize your effectiveness, aim for the head or weak spots of your target, as this can increase damage output. Additionally, the sword can be used while riding certain tamed dinosaurs, such as the Equus or Thylacoleo, allowing you to deal damage while staying mobile.
One important tip is to pair the sword with a shield for added protection. The shield can block incoming attacks, reducing damage taken while you close the distance to your target. This combination is particularly useful in PvP scenarios, where players may use ranged weapons like bows or firearms. Another tip is to use the sword in conjunction with a tamed dinosaur. For example, riding a fast mount like a Raptor or Sabertooth allows you to quickly close the gap and deal damage before retreating to safety.
Common mistakes to avoid include overextending in combat and neglecting durability. The sword's short range means you are vulnerable to counterattacks, so always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid getting surrounded by enemies. Additionally, keep an eye on the sword's durability and repair it before it breaks, as being left without a weapon in the middle of a fight can be disastrous.
Advanced techniques involve using the sword in combination with other tools and strategies. For example, you can use a bola to immobilize smaller creatures or players, allowing you to close the distance and attack with the sword. Another technique is to use the sword in ambush scenarios, where you can surprise your target and deal significant damage before they can react. In PvP, using the sword in tight spaces like caves or narrow corridors can give you an advantage, as it limits your opponent's ability to retreat or use ranged weapons.
Resource management is crucial when using the sword. Always carry extra materials for repairs, as the sword's durability can deplete quickly in prolonged fights. Additionally, consider crafting multiple swords to have backups in case one breaks during combat. Efficiently gathering resources like metal and hide is essential, so use tamed dinosaurs like the Ankylosaurus for metal farming and the Direwolf or Sabertooth for hide gathering.
For solo players, the sword is a reliable weapon for both PvE and PvP, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Always scout your surroundings before engaging in combat, and use tamed dinosaurs to assist you in fights. For tribes, the sword can be a valuable tool in coordinated attacks, especially when paired with other weapons and strategies. Communication and teamwork are key to maximizing the sword's effectiveness in group scenarios.
In specific scenarios, the sword shines in close-quarters combat. For example, when exploring caves, the sword is an excellent choice due to its high damage output and fast attack speed. It is also effective against smaller creatures like Raptors or Dilophosaurs, which can be quickly dispatched with a few well-placed hits. In PvP, the sword is a deadly weapon in melee encounters, especially when used in ambushes or surprise attacks.
In conclusion, crafting and using a sword in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, resource management, and strategic thinking. By following the steps outlined above and considering the tips and techniques provided, you can effectively wield the sword to dominate in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Whether you are a solo player or part of a tribe, the sword is a versatile and powerful weapon that can greatly enhance your survival and combat capabilities in the world of ARK.
To craft a sword, you must first unlock its engram. The sword engram becomes available at level 35 and costs 18 engram points to unlock. Once unlocked, you can craft the sword at a Smithy or Fabricator. The resources required to craft a sword are 15 metal ingots, 20 hide, and 50 fiber. Metal ingots are obtained by smelting metal ore in a forge, hide is gathered from killing creatures, and fiber is collected from plants like bushes or by using a sickle. Ensure you have a Smithy or Fabricator ready, as these are the only crafting stations that can produce the sword.
Once you have the necessary resources, open the Smithy or Fabricator inventory, navigate to the sword in the crafting menu, and select it to begin crafting. The process is quick, and you will soon have a sword in your inventory. Equip the sword by dragging it to your hotbar and selecting the corresponding slot. The sword has a durability of 40, meaning it can withstand 40 hits before breaking. Repairing the sword requires the same materials used to craft it, so always keep extra resources on hand.
Using the sword effectively in combat requires understanding its mechanics. The sword has a fast attack speed and deals 40 base damage per hit, making it one of the most powerful melee weapons in the game. However, it has a short range, so you must get close to your target to land hits. This can be risky, especially against larger or more aggressive creatures. To maximize your effectiveness, aim for the head or weak spots of your target, as this can increase damage output. Additionally, the sword can be used while riding certain tamed dinosaurs, such as the Equus or Thylacoleo, allowing you to deal damage while staying mobile.
One important tip is to pair the sword with a shield for added protection. The shield can block incoming attacks, reducing damage taken while you close the distance to your target. This combination is particularly useful in PvP scenarios, where players may use ranged weapons like bows or firearms. Another tip is to use the sword in conjunction with a tamed dinosaur. For example, riding a fast mount like a Raptor or Sabertooth allows you to quickly close the gap and deal damage before retreating to safety.
Common mistakes to avoid include overextending in combat and neglecting durability. The sword's short range means you are vulnerable to counterattacks, so always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid getting surrounded by enemies. Additionally, keep an eye on the sword's durability and repair it before it breaks, as being left without a weapon in the middle of a fight can be disastrous.
Advanced techniques involve using the sword in combination with other tools and strategies. For example, you can use a bola to immobilize smaller creatures or players, allowing you to close the distance and attack with the sword. Another technique is to use the sword in ambush scenarios, where you can surprise your target and deal significant damage before they can react. In PvP, using the sword in tight spaces like caves or narrow corridors can give you an advantage, as it limits your opponent's ability to retreat or use ranged weapons.
Resource management is crucial when using the sword. Always carry extra materials for repairs, as the sword's durability can deplete quickly in prolonged fights. Additionally, consider crafting multiple swords to have backups in case one breaks during combat. Efficiently gathering resources like metal and hide is essential, so use tamed dinosaurs like the Ankylosaurus for metal farming and the Direwolf or Sabertooth for hide gathering.
For solo players, the sword is a reliable weapon for both PvE and PvP, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Always scout your surroundings before engaging in combat, and use tamed dinosaurs to assist you in fights. For tribes, the sword can be a valuable tool in coordinated attacks, especially when paired with other weapons and strategies. Communication and teamwork are key to maximizing the sword's effectiveness in group scenarios.
In specific scenarios, the sword shines in close-quarters combat. For example, when exploring caves, the sword is an excellent choice due to its high damage output and fast attack speed. It is also effective against smaller creatures like Raptors or Dilophosaurs, which can be quickly dispatched with a few well-placed hits. In PvP, the sword is a deadly weapon in melee encounters, especially when used in ambushes or surprise attacks.
In conclusion, crafting and using a sword in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, resource management, and strategic thinking. By following the steps outlined above and considering the tips and techniques provided, you can effectively wield the sword to dominate in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Whether you are a solo player or part of a tribe, the sword is a versatile and powerful weapon that can greatly enhance your survival and combat capabilities in the world of ARK.