How do I prepare for the underwater caves in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Preparing for underwater caves in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, as these areas are some of the most dangerous in the game. Underwater caves are filled with hostile creatures, limited oxygen, and tight spaces, making them challenging to navigate. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you prepare effectively.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of underwater exploration. Oxygen is your primary concern, as you will drown if it runs out. Your oxygen stat determines how long you can stay underwater, but you can extend this time by using scuba gear or taming aquatic creatures. Additionally, underwater caves often have strong currents that can push you around, making navigation difficult. Creatures like jellyfish, eels, and sharks are common threats, and they can dismount you from your tamed creatures or stun you, leaving you vulnerable.

To prepare, start by gathering the necessary resources. Scuba gear is essential for extended underwater exploration. You will need a scuba tank, mask, fins, and leggings, which can be crafted at a fabricator using materials like polymer, cementing paste, and silica pearls. Bring extra oxygen tanks in case one runs out. You should also craft Lazarus Chowder, a consumable that increases your oxygen regeneration, or bring medical brews to heal quickly if you take damage.

Taming aquatic creatures is highly recommended. A strong water mount like a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Tusoteuthis can make underwater caves much easier. Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the stun effects of jellyfish and eels, and it has high health and damage output. If you are playing solo, a Basilosaurus is one of the best choices. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players on different mounts can help cover more ground and deal with threats more efficiently.

Before entering an underwater cave, scout the area. Use a spyglass to observe the cave entrance and the surrounding waters for dangerous creatures. Clear out any threats before proceeding. Bring a crossbow or harpoon gun with tranq arrows to deal with aggressive creatures from a distance. You can also use grappling hooks to navigate tricky areas or escape if you get dismounted.

Once inside the cave, stay alert. Underwater caves often have narrow passages and tight spaces, so maneuver carefully. Use your mountÔÇÖs attacks to clear out enemies, but avoid getting surrounded. Keep an eye on your oxygen levels and health, and retreat if necessary. Some caves have air pockets where you can surface to replenish oxygen, so look for these as you explore.

Common mistakes include underestimating the dangers of underwater caves and not bringing enough supplies. Always overprepare with extra oxygen tanks, food, and healing items. Another mistake is using the wrong mount. For example, a Megalodon is fast but can be stunned by jellyfish, making it less ideal for caves with many of these creatures. Always choose a mount that suits the specific challenges of the cave you are entering.

Advanced techniques include using cryopods to bring multiple mounts into the cave. If your primary mount gets low on health, you can swap to a backup. Additionally, using a Tek Suit can make underwater exploration easier, as it provides oxygen and allows you to fly through water. However, Tek Suits require advanced resources and are only available in late-game stages.

Resource requirements for underwater cave preparation include polymer, cementing paste, silica pearls, and metal for crafting scuba gear and weapons. You will also need narcotics and raw meat for taming aquatic creatures. If you are playing in a tribe, divide tasks among members to gather resources more efficiently. For example, one player can focus on taming while another gathers materials for scuba gear.

In summary, preparing for underwater caves in ARK: Survival Evolved involves gathering the right resources, taming strong aquatic mounts, and equipping yourself with scuba gear and weapons. Stay alert, avoid common mistakes, and use advanced techniques like cryopods or Tek Suits if available. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, careful preparation and coordination are key to successfully navigating these dangerous areas.