How do I handle tribe-owned creatures during a server update in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Handling tribe-owned creatures during a server update in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and coordination to ensure the safety of your tamed dinosaurs and other creatures. Server updates can sometimes lead to unexpected issues, such as creatures being misplaced, lost, or even killed if not properly managed. Below is a detailed guide on how to handle tribe-owned creatures during a server update, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

First, it is important to understand the mechanics involved. When a server updates, the game world resets or reloads, which can cause creatures to behave unpredictably. For example, creatures left on wander or aggressive settings might move away from their designated areas or engage in combat with nearby threats. Additionally, server updates can sometimes cause creatures to fall through the map or become stuck in terrain. To mitigate these risks, you need to take specific steps to secure your creatures before the update occurs.

Step-by-step instructions for handling tribe-owned creatures during a server update begin with preparation. Start by gathering all tribe members and assigning tasks to ensure everyone contributes to the process. The first task is to recall all creatures to a safe location. Use whistles or commands to bring creatures back to your base or a secure area. If you have creatures set to wander, disable this setting to prevent them from moving during the update. For creatures that are out on resource-gathering missions or exploration, ensure they are returned to base well before the update begins.

Next, secure your creatures within a safe enclosure. Build or designate a secure pen or building where your creatures can be stored during the update. Ensure the enclosure has strong walls and a roof to prevent predators or other players from harming your creatures. If you are on a PvP server, consider adding additional defenses, such as turrets or plant species X, to protect your creatures from potential raids during the update. For larger creatures like Rexes or Brontos, make sure the enclosure is spacious enough to accommodate them without causing clipping issues.

Once your creatures are secured, check their inventory and settings. Remove any valuable items from their inventory to prevent loss in case of a glitch. Ensure their food levels are high, as server updates can sometimes cause creatures to starve if the update takes longer than expected. If you have breeding pairs, consider separating them to avoid accidental breeding during the update. Additionally, disable any aggressive or neutral settings to prevent creatures from attacking each other or other players.

Important tips and considerations include communication and timing. Make sure all tribe members are aware of the update schedule and the steps being taken to secure creatures. Use in-game chat or external communication tools like Discord to coordinate efforts. Timing is crucial, so start preparing well in advance of the update to avoid last-minute issues. If possible, log in shortly after the update to check on your creatures and address any problems that may have arisen.

Common mistakes to avoid include leaving creatures on wander or aggressive settings, failing to secure enclosures, and not checking food levels. These mistakes can lead to lost or dead creatures, which can be devastating, especially for high-level or rare tames. Another mistake is not backing up your tribe data. While this is more relevant for private servers, having a backup can help recover lost progress if something goes wrong during the update.

Advanced techniques or optimizations involve using cryopods. Cryopods are items that allow you to store creatures in a portable state, making them immune to most update-related issues. Before the update, consider cryopodding your most valuable creatures and storing them in a secure vault or inventory. This not only protects them but also saves space in your enclosures. Additionally, consider using feeding troughs to automate food distribution, ensuring your creatures remain fed during the update.

Resource requirements and preparation include having enough materials to build or reinforce enclosures, as well as a stockpile of food for your creatures. Ensure you have enough cryopods and charges if you plan to use this method. For tribes, coordinate resource gathering and allocation to ensure everyone contributes to the preparation process.

Tribe and solo considerations differ slightly. In a tribe, coordination and task delegation are key. Assign specific roles, such as creature retrieval, enclosure building, and inventory management, to different members. For solo players, the process is more time-consuming but equally important. Focus on securing your most valuable creatures first and work your way down the list.

Specific examples and scenarios include preparing for a major update like the release of a new map or expansion. In such cases, server stability may be uncertain, so taking extra precautions is advisable. Another scenario is preparing for a scheduled maintenance update on an official server. In this case, follow the steps outlined above to ensure your creatures are safe and ready for the update.

In conclusion, handling tribe-owned creatures during a server update in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, coordination, and execution. By understanding the mechanics, following step-by-step instructions, and considering important tips, you can protect your creatures and ensure their safety during updates. Avoid common mistakes, utilize advanced techniques, and prepare adequately to minimize risks. Whether you are part of a tribe or playing solo, these strategies will help you navigate server updates with confidence and keep your creatures secure.