What are the best ways to handle tribe tames during a server crash in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Handling tribe tames during a server crash in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and preparation to minimize losses and ensure the safety of your tamed creatures. Server crashes can be unpredictable, and when they occur, they can lead to tames being left in vulnerable positions, such as in the middle of combat, near aggressive wild creatures, or in areas where they could fall or drown. Below is a detailed guide on how to manage tribe tames effectively during such events.

First, it is important to understand the mechanics involved. When a server crashes, all players are disconnected, and the game world freezes in place. Tames will remain in their last known position and state, which can be dangerous if they are left in hostile environments. For example, a tame left near a Rex or other aggressive creatures could be attacked when the server comes back online. Similarly, flying tames left in the air could fall and take damage or die upon landing. Understanding these risks is the first step in preparing for a server crash.

To mitigate these risks, one of the most effective strategies is to always ensure your tames are in a safe location before logging off or when you anticipate a server crash. This means placing them in a secure base or enclosed area where they are protected from wild creatures and environmental hazards. For flying tames, always land them on the ground before logging off or when you suspect a crash might occur. This prevents them from falling and taking damage when the server restarts.

Another important step is to use cryopods. Cryopods are advanced items that allow you to store tames in a portable, frozen state. If you anticipate a server crash, you can cryopod your tames to keep them safe. This is especially useful for high-value tames or those that are difficult to replace. Cryopods can be crafted using a Tek Replicator and require resources such as polymer, crystal, and metal. Having a supply of cryopods on hand is a good practice for any tribe, as they provide a quick and easy way to secure tames during emergencies.

In addition to cryopods, consider using feeding troughs to ensure your tames have enough food to last through a server crash. Feeding troughs automatically distribute food to nearby tames, keeping them fed even if you are not actively playing. This is particularly important for tames with high food consumption rates, such as large carnivores. Make sure your troughs are stocked with plenty of meat or berries, depending on the type of tames you have.

For tribes, communication and coordination are key. Assign specific roles to tribe members to ensure that tames are secured before logging off or during potential server crashes. For example, one member could be responsible for checking the safety of flying tames, while another ensures that all ground tames are within the base walls. This division of labor helps prevent oversights and ensures that all tames are accounted for.

Common mistakes to avoid include leaving tames in dangerous areas, such as near aggressive wild creatures or in open water, where they could drown. Another mistake is forgetting to check the food levels in feeding troughs, which can lead to tames starving during a prolonged server crash. Additionally, failing to use cryopods or other protective measures can result in the loss of valuable tames.

Advanced techniques include setting up automated systems to monitor and protect your tames. For example, you can use turrets or plant species X to defend your base and tames from wild creatures. These defenses can help keep your tames safe even if you are not actively playing. Another advanced strategy is to create multiple bases or outposts in different locations. This provides redundancy in case one base is compromised during a server crash.

Resource requirements and preparation are essential for handling tribe tames during a server crash. Ensure you have enough cryopods, feeding troughs, and defensive structures to protect your tames. Stockpile resources such as metal, polymer, and crystal to craft additional cryopods or repair damaged structures. Regularly check your base for vulnerabilities and reinforce weak points to prevent wild creatures from breaching your defenses.

For solo players, the same principles apply, but you will need to manage everything on your own. Prioritize securing your most valuable tames first and use cryopods to store them safely. Keep your base well-stocked with food and resources to ensure your tames can survive a server crash.

In specific scenarios, such as during a boss fight or a raid, the risks are even higher. If a server crash occurs during a boss fight, your tames could be left in the boss arena, where they are likely to be killed. To prevent this, always have a backup plan, such as using cryopods to store your tames before entering the arena. During a raid, ensure your tames are within a secure base or use cryopods to keep them safe from enemy attacks.

In conclusion, handling tribe tames during a server crash in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and coordination. By understanding the mechanics involved, using cryopods, securing your base, and communicating with your tribe, you can minimize the risks and ensure the safety of your tames. Avoid common mistakes, use advanced techniques, and always be prepared for the unexpected. With these strategies in place, you can protect your tames and continue to thrive in the challenging world of ARK.