How do I craft and use a compound bow for combat in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Crafting and using a compound bow in ARK: Survival Evolved is a significant step in your progression, as it is one of the most powerful ranged weapons available in the mid to late game. The compound bow excels in both PvE and PvP scenarios due to its high damage output, accuracy, and versatility. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and effectively use the compound bow, along with tips and strategies to maximize its potential.
To craft a compound bow, you must first unlock its engram. The compound bow engram becomes available at level 55 and costs 21 engram points. Once unlocked, you will need the following resources to craft it: 150 polymer, 200 metal ingots, 100 cementing paste, 100 fiber, and 50 hide. Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku (penguins) or by crafting it using obsidian and cementing paste. Metal ingots are smelted from metal ore in a forge, cementing paste is crafted from chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle or obtained from beaver dams, and fiber and hide are gathered from plants and animals, respectively.
Once you have gathered the necessary resources, you can craft the compound bow at a fabricator. The fabricator requires gasoline to operate, so ensure you have a steady supply. After crafting the bow, you will also need arrows to use it. The compound bow uses metal arrows, which are crafted using 1 metal ingot and 1 flint per arrow. Metal arrows deal significantly more damage than stone arrows, making them essential for maximizing the bow's effectiveness.
Using the compound bow effectively requires practice and strategy. The bow has a unique mechanic where holding the right mouse button (or equivalent on consoles) charges the shot, increasing its damage and range. A fully charged shot deals the most damage and has the longest range, but it also consumes more stamina. Managing your stamina is crucial, especially in prolonged fights or when facing multiple enemies. Aim for headshots whenever possible, as they deal extra damage and can quickly take down weaker enemies or tamed creatures.
In PvE scenarios, the compound bow is excellent for hunting large dinosaurs or defending your base from aggressive creatures. Its high damage output allows you to take down threats quickly, and its range keeps you at a safe distance. For example, when hunting a Rex, you can use the compound bow to deal significant damage from a distance, avoiding its powerful melee attacks. In PvP, the compound bow is a formidable weapon for ambushes and long-range engagements. Its silent shots make it ideal for stealthy attacks, and its high damage can quickly eliminate unsuspecting players.
One common mistake when using the compound bow is failing to account for arrow drop and travel time. Unlike firearms, arrows have a noticeable arc and take time to reach their target. Practice leading your shots and adjusting for distance to improve your accuracy. Additionally, always carry extra arrows, as running out of ammunition in the middle of a fight can leave you vulnerable.
Advanced techniques for using the compound bow include combining it with other tools and strategies. For example, using a grappling hook to gain high ground can give you a tactical advantage, allowing you to rain down arrows on enemies below. Pairing the bow with a tamed creature, such as a Pteranodon or Argentavis, can also enhance your mobility and combat effectiveness. In PvP, consider using the bow in conjunction with traps or environmental hazards to catch opponents off guard.
Resource management is critical when using the compound bow. Metal arrows are expensive to craft, so use them wisely. Consider setting up a dedicated crafting station near a metal-rich area to streamline arrow production. Additionally, always carry a backup weapon, such as a crossbow or firearm, in case you run out of arrows or need a different tool for close-quarters combat.
For tribes, the compound bow can be a valuable asset in coordinated attacks or base defense. Assigning specific roles, such as archers and melee fighters, can create a balanced and effective combat strategy. Solo players should focus on mastering the bow's mechanics and using it in hit-and-run tactics to avoid being overwhelmed by larger groups or stronger creatures.
In summary, the compound bow is a powerful and versatile weapon in ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding its mechanics, practicing your aim, and managing your resources, you can become a formidable force in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Whether you are hunting dinosaurs, defending your base, or engaging in player combat, the compound bow is a valuable tool in your arsenal.
To craft a compound bow, you must first unlock its engram. The compound bow engram becomes available at level 55 and costs 21 engram points. Once unlocked, you will need the following resources to craft it: 150 polymer, 200 metal ingots, 100 cementing paste, 100 fiber, and 50 hide. Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku (penguins) or by crafting it using obsidian and cementing paste. Metal ingots are smelted from metal ore in a forge, cementing paste is crafted from chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle or obtained from beaver dams, and fiber and hide are gathered from plants and animals, respectively.
Once you have gathered the necessary resources, you can craft the compound bow at a fabricator. The fabricator requires gasoline to operate, so ensure you have a steady supply. After crafting the bow, you will also need arrows to use it. The compound bow uses metal arrows, which are crafted using 1 metal ingot and 1 flint per arrow. Metal arrows deal significantly more damage than stone arrows, making them essential for maximizing the bow's effectiveness.
Using the compound bow effectively requires practice and strategy. The bow has a unique mechanic where holding the right mouse button (or equivalent on consoles) charges the shot, increasing its damage and range. A fully charged shot deals the most damage and has the longest range, but it also consumes more stamina. Managing your stamina is crucial, especially in prolonged fights or when facing multiple enemies. Aim for headshots whenever possible, as they deal extra damage and can quickly take down weaker enemies or tamed creatures.
In PvE scenarios, the compound bow is excellent for hunting large dinosaurs or defending your base from aggressive creatures. Its high damage output allows you to take down threats quickly, and its range keeps you at a safe distance. For example, when hunting a Rex, you can use the compound bow to deal significant damage from a distance, avoiding its powerful melee attacks. In PvP, the compound bow is a formidable weapon for ambushes and long-range engagements. Its silent shots make it ideal for stealthy attacks, and its high damage can quickly eliminate unsuspecting players.
One common mistake when using the compound bow is failing to account for arrow drop and travel time. Unlike firearms, arrows have a noticeable arc and take time to reach their target. Practice leading your shots and adjusting for distance to improve your accuracy. Additionally, always carry extra arrows, as running out of ammunition in the middle of a fight can leave you vulnerable.
Advanced techniques for using the compound bow include combining it with other tools and strategies. For example, using a grappling hook to gain high ground can give you a tactical advantage, allowing you to rain down arrows on enemies below. Pairing the bow with a tamed creature, such as a Pteranodon or Argentavis, can also enhance your mobility and combat effectiveness. In PvP, consider using the bow in conjunction with traps or environmental hazards to catch opponents off guard.
Resource management is critical when using the compound bow. Metal arrows are expensive to craft, so use them wisely. Consider setting up a dedicated crafting station near a metal-rich area to streamline arrow production. Additionally, always carry a backup weapon, such as a crossbow or firearm, in case you run out of arrows or need a different tool for close-quarters combat.
For tribes, the compound bow can be a valuable asset in coordinated attacks or base defense. Assigning specific roles, such as archers and melee fighters, can create a balanced and effective combat strategy. Solo players should focus on mastering the bow's mechanics and using it in hit-and-run tactics to avoid being overwhelmed by larger groups or stronger creatures.
In summary, the compound bow is a powerful and versatile weapon in ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding its mechanics, practicing your aim, and managing your resources, you can become a formidable force in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Whether you are hunting dinosaurs, defending your base, or engaging in player combat, the compound bow is a valuable tool in your arsenal.