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

Crafting and using a Tek Grenade Launcher in ARK: Survival Evolved is a significant milestone in your progression, especially when preparing for boss fights. The Tek Grenade Launcher is a high-tier weapon that deals explosive damage, making it highly effective against large targets like bosses. However, obtaining and using this weapon requires advanced preparation, resources, and knowledge of the game's mechanics. Here's a detailed guide to help you craft and use the Tek Grenade Launcher effectively.

To craft the Tek Grenade Launcher, you must first unlock its engram. This engram is available at level 100 and requires 60 Engram Points to unlock. However, you also need to defeat certain bosses to gain access to Tek-tier items. Specifically, you must defeat the Broodmother Lysrix, Megapithecus, or Dragon boss to unlock the Tek Replicator, which is necessary for crafting Tek items like the Tek Grenade Launcher. Once you have the engram, you can craft the launcher in a Tek Replicator.

The resource requirements for crafting the Tek Grenade Launcher are substantial. You will need 200 Element, 500 Metal Ingots, 200 Polymer, and 100 Crystal. Element is a rare resource obtained by defeating bosses or completing certain endgame activities. Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge, Polymer can be harvested from organic sources like Kairuku or crafted using Obsidian and Cementing Paste, and Crystal is mined from crystal-rich areas like caves or mountains. Gathering these resources will take time, so it's best to prepare in advance by setting up efficient resource-gathering operations with tamed dinosaurs like Ankylosaurus for metal and crystal, and Beavers or Mammoths for wood and thatch.

Once you have crafted the Tek Grenade Launcher, you need to prepare for its use in boss fights. The launcher uses Tek Grenades as ammunition, which also require Element to craft. Each Tek Grenade costs 1 Element, 10 Gunpowder, and 5 Metal Ingots. Stockpile a significant number of Tek Grenades before entering a boss fight, as you will need to fire multiple shots to deal substantial damage. Additionally, ensure you have a reliable source of Element, as both the launcher and its ammunition are resource-intensive.

When using the Tek Grenade Launcher in boss fights, positioning and timing are crucial. Bosses in ARK have specific attack patterns and weaknesses, so study their behavior to maximize your damage output. For example, the Dragon boss is weak to ranged attacks, making the Tek Grenade Launcher an excellent choice. However, the Dragon also deals fire damage, so bring fire-resistant armor or a high-health mount like a Rex or Therizinosaurus to survive its attacks. In contrast, the Broodmother Lysrix is weak to melee attacks, so the Tek Grenade Launcher may not be the best choice unless you are supporting a team of melee-focused players.

One common mistake is underestimating the resource requirements for the Tek Grenade Launcher. Failing to stockpile enough Element or Tek Grenades can leave you underprepared for a boss fight, leading to a quick defeat. Another mistake is using the launcher at close range, as the explosive damage can harm you or your tamed dinosaurs. Always maintain a safe distance and use the launcher's range to your advantage.

Advanced techniques include coordinating with your tribe to maximize the launcher's effectiveness. For example, one player can focus on dealing damage with the Tek Grenade Launcher while others provide support with healing items or distractions. In solo play, consider using high-health mounts to tank boss attacks while you focus on dealing damage from a distance. Additionally, practice using the launcher in less dangerous situations to get a feel for its range and projectile speed.

In summary, crafting and using the Tek Grenade Launcher in ARK: Survival Evolved requires significant preparation and resource management. Unlock the engram, gather the necessary resources, and craft the launcher in a Tek Replicator. Stockpile Tek Grenades and study boss behavior to maximize your effectiveness in combat. Avoid common mistakes like resource shortages and close-range use, and consider advanced techniques like tribe coordination or solo strategies. With proper preparation and execution, the Tek Grenade Launcher can be a game-changing weapon in your arsenal for boss fights.