So, you're venturing into the wild world of ARK: Survival Evolved and have set your sights on taming a fearsome Raptor? These swift and deadly predators can be invaluable assets, but capturing one requires strategy and preparation. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparing for the hunt to successfully taming your new companion.
Understanding Raptors in ARK
Before you even think about capturing a Raptor, it's crucial to understand their behavior and strengths:
- Speed and Agility: Raptors are incredibly fast and nimble, making them difficult to catch.
- Damage Output: Their claws inflict significant damage, capable of quickly taking down unprepared players.
- Pack Mentality: Raptors often travel in packs, increasing the danger significantly. Attempting to capture one while others are nearby is highly discouraged.
- Different Variants: Remember that there are different variants of Raptors in ARK, each with unique stats and appearances. Some might be stronger or faster than others.
Preparing for the Raptor Hunt
Success in capturing a Raptor requires careful planning:
1. Gather Necessary Resources:
- Tranquilizer Arrows/Tranq Darts: You'll need a plentiful supply to knock out your target. The number required will depend on the Raptor's level. Higher-level Raptors will require significantly more.
- Narcotics: These are crucial for keeping your captured Raptor unconscious while it tames. Bring far more than you think you'll need.
- Taming Food: Raptors prefer raw meat. Stock up on a large quantity of raw meat from various creatures. The higher the quality of the meat, the faster the taming process will be.
- Good Weapon: A bow and arrow or a crossbow is recommended for ranged attacks. A good weapon is also important for defending yourself.
- Armor: Protecting yourself from Raptor attacks is essential. Wear the best armor you currently possess.
- Mount (Optional): A fast mount like a fast horse or similar can help you chase down and corner a lone Raptor. However, be warned, using a mount adds complexity to the process.
2. Choosing Your Target:
- Isolate a Single Raptor: Avoid packs at all costs. Find a lone Raptor, preferably a lower-level one for easier taming.
- Observe its Behavior: Watch your target for a while to assess its movement patterns and any potential dangers in the immediate vicinity.
The Capture Process:
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Lead the Raptor: Carefully lead the Raptor to a location where you can easily fight it and there's minimal risk of other creatures interfering. Ideally, this spot is enclosed in some manner to restrict the Raptor's movement.
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Shoot to Tranquilize: Use your tranquilizer weapon carefully to shoot the Raptor. Aim for the head for maximum effectiveness. Keep your distance and be prepared to dodge its attacks.
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Keep it Tranquilized: Once the Raptor is unconscious, keep shooting it with tranquilizer darts to keep it asleep. Don't let it wake up, or you might have to restart the process.
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Feed the Raptor: Once the taming meter appears, start feeding it raw meat. This will gradually fill the taming meter.
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Patience is Key: The taming process takes time. Keep feeding your Raptor until the taming meter is full. Once it's filled, your Raptor is yours!
Post-Capture Care
Once you've successfully tamed your Raptor, it's important to care for it:
- Food and Water: Ensure your Raptor has access to food and water.
- Leveling Up: Use your Raptor’s experience points to level it up and increase its stats.
- Saddles: Invest in a saddle to ride your Raptor.
Important Note: Always be cautious. Raptor taming is inherently risky. If you're unsure about your abilities, practice with easier-to-tame creatures first. Don't attempt this alone, especially early in the game. A partner can provide crucial support and assistance.
By following this guide, you'll significantly increase your chances of successfully capturing and taming a powerful Raptor in ARK: Survival Evolved. Good luck, survivor!
