What are the best locations to set up a base near water resources in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Setting up a base near water resources in ARK: Survival Evolved is a strategic decision that can greatly enhance your survival and progression in the game. Water resources are essential for hydration, farming, and taming certain creatures, so choosing the right location is crucial. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Water resources in ARK include rivers, lakes, and oceans. Each type of water source has its own advantages and challenges. Rivers are often surrounded by fertile land and are rich in resources like fish, pearls, and silica. Lakes provide a more centralized water source, often with fewer predators, but may have limited access to other resources. Oceans offer the most abundant water supply and access to deep-sea resources like oil and underwater caves, but they are also home to dangerous creatures like Megalodons and Leedsichthys.

To set up a base near water, start by scouting the map for a suitable location. Look for areas where water is easily accessible but not so close that your base is at risk of flooding or being attacked by aquatic predators. The Island map, for example, has several ideal locations. The river near the Red Obelisk is a popular choice due to its central location and proximity to metal and crystal nodes. Another good spot is the Hidden Lake in the north, which offers a secluded and resource-rich environment.

Once youÔÇÖve chosen a location, gather the necessary resources to build your base. YouÔÇÖll need wood, thatch, stone, and fiber for the basic structures. If youÔÇÖre near a river or lake, you can use a raft to transport materials and set up a temporary base until your main base is complete. For ocean bases, consider building on a platform saddle of a Brontosaurus or Paraceratherium to avoid the dangers of the deep sea.

When building your base, prioritize defense. Water sources attract both players and predators, so itÔÇÖs important to have walls, turrets, and tamed creatures to protect your base. Spinos and Sarco are excellent choices for water-based defense due to their amphibious nature and combat effectiveness. Additionally, consider building a water pen to house aquatic tames like Ichthyosaurs or Megalodons, which can help you gather resources and defend your base.

Resource management is key when setting up near water. Ensure you have a steady supply of fresh water by building water reservoirs or using irrigation systems. Farming plots near your base can provide a sustainable food source, and taming creatures like the Dung Beetle can help with fertilizer production. For advanced players, consider setting up an underwater base using Tek structures, which offer better protection and access to deep-sea resources.

Common mistakes to avoid include building too close to the water, which can lead to flooding or attacks from aquatic predators. Another mistake is neglecting defense, as water sources are often high-traffic areas. Always have a plan for both land and water defense to protect your base from all angles.

Advanced techniques include using underwater caves for hidden bases or resource storage. These caves are difficult to find and access, making them ideal for secure storage or hidden operations. Additionally, consider using a Quetzal or Argentavis to transport large amounts of resources to your base, especially if youÔÇÖre located in a remote area.

Resource requirements and preparation vary depending on the type of base youÔÇÖre building. For a basic base, youÔÇÖll need wood, thatch, stone, and fiber. For more advanced bases, metal, crystal, and cementing paste are essential. Always gather more resources than you think youÔÇÖll need, as building near water can be resource-intensive.

Tribe and solo considerations also play a role in base location. For solo players, smaller, more defensible locations are ideal. Hidden Lake is a great example, as it offers natural barriers and easy access to resources. For tribes, larger areas with multiple access points and resource nodes are better. The river near the Red Obelisk is a good choice for tribes due to its central location and abundance of resources.

In conclusion, setting up a base near water resources in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and consideration. Choose a location that balances accessibility and defense, gather the necessary resources, and prioritize both land and water defense. By following these strategies, you can create a secure and resource-rich base that will support your survival and progression in the game.