How do I craft and use a tek gauntlets for boss fights in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Crafting and using Tek Gauntlets for boss fights in ARK: Survival Evolved is a late-game endeavor that requires significant preparation and resources. Tek Gauntlets are part of the Tek Tier, the most advanced technology in the game, and they provide unique combat advantages, especially in boss fights. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft and use Tek Gauntlets effectively.

To craft Tek Gauntlets, you must first unlock the Tek Gauntlets engram. This engram is available at level 100 and requires defeating certain bosses to unlock. Specifically, you need to defeat the Broodmother Lysrix, Megapithecus, or Dragon boss on Gamma difficulty or higher to gain access to the Tek Gauntlets engram. Once unlocked, you can craft the gauntlets at a Tek Replicator, which itself requires Element to power. The crafting recipe for Tek Gauntlets includes 200 Element, 250 Metal Ingots, 100 Polymer, and 100 Black Pearls. Gathering these resources can be time-consuming, so itÔÇÖs important to plan ahead.

Element is the most challenging resource to obtain, as it is primarily acquired by defeating bosses or completing certain end-game activities like the Genesis Simulation missions. Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge or Industrial Forge, while Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku, Mantis, or by crafting it using Obsidian and Cementing Paste. Black Pearls are found in the ocean, often dropped by creatures like Trilobites, Eurypterids, or Alpha Mosasaurs. Preparing these resources will require a well-organized base with efficient resource-gathering dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for Metal, Doedicurus for Stone, and Beavers or Mammoths for Wood.

Once you have crafted the Tek Gauntlets, they provide several advantages in boss fights. The gauntlets allow you to punch with increased damage and knockback, making them useful for close-quarters combat. Additionally, they enable you to use the Tek Punch, a powerful melee attack that deals significant damage and can stun smaller creatures. This ability is particularly effective against smaller minions that bosses often summon during fights. The gauntlets also provide a small amount of armor, which can help mitigate damage during intense battles.

When preparing for a boss fight, itÔÇÖs crucial to bring a well-balanced team of tamed dinosaurs. Rexes, Therizinosaurus, and Yutyrannus are popular choices due to their high damage output and survivability. Make sure your dinosaurs are bred for high stats, imprinted, and equipped with high-quality saddles to maximize their effectiveness. Additionally, bring plenty of healing items like Sweet Vegetable Cake for herbivores and cooked meat or raw meat for carnivores. Ammo for ranged weapons, such as Assault Rifles or Compound Bows, is also essential for dealing with flying or hard-to-reach enemies.

During the boss fight, the Tek Gauntlets can be used to deal with smaller creatures that spawn, allowing your dinosaurs to focus on the boss. For example, in the Dragon boss fight, the Tek Punch can quickly dispatch the Dimorphodon swarms that the Dragon summons. This reduces the overall damage your dinosaurs take and keeps the fight manageable. However, avoid using the gauntlets against the boss itself unless absolutely necessary, as their damage output is lower compared to high-level tamed dinosaurs.

One common mistake is underestimating the resource requirements for crafting Tek Gauntlets. Gathering Element, in particular, can be a bottleneck, so itÔÇÖs important to plan multiple boss fights or explore alternative methods like ExtinctionÔÇÖs Orbital Supply Drops or Genesis missions. Another mistake is relying too heavily on the gauntlets during boss fights. While they are useful, they should complement your strategy rather than replace your tamed dinosaurs or ranged weapons.

For advanced players, consider using the Tek Gauntlets in combination with other Tek items like the Tek Rifle or Tek Shield. The Tek Shield can provide additional protection, while the Tek Rifle offers high damage output at range. This combination allows for a versatile combat approach, adapting to different phases of the boss fight. Additionally, if you are part of a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to maximize the effectiveness of your Tek Gauntlets. For example, one player can focus on crowd control with the gauntlets while others handle the boss or provide support.

In solo play, the Tek Gauntlets can be a lifesaver, especially when dealing with multiple enemies. However, solo players should prioritize taming and breeding high-quality dinosaurs to carry the bulk of the fight. The gauntlets should be used strategically to handle situations where your dinosaurs are overwhelmed or to finish off weakened enemies.

In summary, crafting and using Tek Gauntlets for boss fights in ARK: Survival Evolved requires significant preparation, including defeating bosses to unlock the engram, gathering rare resources, and assembling a strong team of tamed dinosaurs. The gauntlets are most effective when used to handle smaller enemies or provide additional damage in critical moments. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating resource requirements or over-relying on the gauntlets, and consider advanced strategies like combining them with other Tek items for maximum effectiveness. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, Tek Gauntlets can be a valuable asset in conquering ARKÔÇÖs most challenging encounters.