How do I set up tribe-owned tek gates in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Setting up tribe-owned Tek Gates in ARK: Survival Evolved involves a combination of advanced technology, resource management, and tribe coordination. Tek Gates are part of the Tek Tier, the endgame technology in ARK, and require significant preparation to unlock and use effectively. Below is a detailed guide on how to set up tribe-owned Tek Gates, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

To begin, you must first unlock the Tek Gate engrams. These are obtained by defeating certain bosses in the game, such as the Broodmother, Megapithecus, or Dragon. Each boss drops specific Tekgrams, and the Tek Gate engram is typically unlocked by defeating the Dragon or the Overseer. Once you have the engram, you can craft the Tek Gate structures at a Tek Replicator, which itself requires Element to operate. Element is a rare resource obtained from boss fights, Tek creatures, or by converting Element Shards in a Charge Node.

The Tek Gate consists of two main parts: the Tek Gateframe and the Tek Door. The Gateframe is the structure that holds the door, and the door is the moving part that opens and closes. Both require a significant amount of resources to craft, including Metal Ingots, Crystal, Polymer, and Element. Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku, Mantis, or by crafting it with Obsidian and Cementing Paste. Crystal is found in caves or mountain regions, and Metal Ingots are smelted from Metal Ore in a Forge or Industrial Forge.

Once you have crafted the Tek Gateframe and Tek Door, you need to place them in your base. The Gateframe must be placed first, and it requires a flat, open area to ensure proper alignment. After placing the Gateframe, you can attach the Tek Door to it. The door can be opened and closed manually or automatically using a Tek Generator and Tek Sensors. The Tek Generator powers the gate and other Tek structures, and it requires Element to function. Tek Sensors can be set up to detect players or creatures, allowing the gate to open automatically when someone approaches.

For tribe-owned Tek Gates, it is crucial to set the tribe permissions correctly. In the tribe management menu, ensure that the gate is set to "Tribe Owned" so that all tribe members can access and operate it. You can also assign specific roles or ranks within the tribe to control who can open or close the gate. This is especially important in PvP scenarios, where you want to prevent unauthorized access to your base.

When setting up Tek Gates, consider their placement carefully. They are best used as the main entrance to your base or as a secure barrier between different sections of your base. In PvP, Tek Gates are highly durable and resistant to most attacks, making them an excellent choice for protecting valuable resources or tames. However, they are not invincible, and high-level explosives or Tek weaponry can still damage them. To maximize their effectiveness, pair them with other defensive structures like Turrets, Plant Species X, or Tek Shields.

Resource management is key when working with Tek Gates. Crafting and maintaining them requires a steady supply of Element, which is a limited resource. To ensure you have enough Element, prioritize boss fights and Tek creature hunts. You can also farm Element Shards in the Genesis or Extinction maps and convert them into Element. Additionally, stockpile other resources like Metal Ingots and Polymer, as you will need them in large quantities for both the gates and other Tek structures.

Common mistakes to avoid include placing the gate in an area with uneven terrain, which can cause alignment issues, or failing to power the gate with a Tek Generator. Another mistake is not setting tribe permissions correctly, which can lead to unauthorized access or misuse of the gate. Always double-check the tribe settings and ensure that only trusted members have access to the gate controls.

Advanced techniques for using Tek Gates include integrating them into a larger automated defense system. For example, you can connect the gate to a network of Tek Sensors and Turrets, creating a fully automated base defense. You can also use multiple gates to create airlocks or secure chambers within your base, adding an extra layer of protection. In PvP, consider using decoy gates or hidden entrances to confuse raiders and protect your main gate.

In solo play, setting up Tek Gates is more challenging due to the resource requirements and the need to defeat bosses to unlock the engrams. However, it is still achievable with careful planning and resource management. Focus on building a strong base and taming powerful creatures to help you in boss fights. Once you have the Tek Gate engrams, prioritize crafting the Tek Replicator and Tek Generator to begin producing the gates.

In conclusion, setting up tribe-owned Tek Gates in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex but rewarding process. It requires unlocking the necessary engrams, gathering resources, and coordinating with your tribe. Proper placement, tribe permissions, and integration with other defenses are crucial for maximizing their effectiveness. With careful planning and execution, Tek Gates can become a cornerstone of your base's security and a powerful tool in both PvE and PvP scenarios.