ARK: Survival Evolved's The Island map offers a vast landscape brimming with opportunities and dangers. Choosing the right base location is crucial for survival and thriving. This guide will explore some of the best base spots, considering factors like resource accessibility, safety from predators, and ease of defense. We'll also address some frequently asked questions to help you make the most informed decision.
What are the best starting locations on The Island?
Starting locations heavily influence early-game survival. Areas with readily available resources like stone, wood, and water are ideal. However, you also need to consider the proximity of dangerous creatures. A good compromise is a spot near a river or beach with relatively low-level threats. The South-West coast, near the redwoods, offers a decent balance; it provides ample resources and isn't immediately overrun by dangerous dinos.
What are some good, safe base locations on The Island?
"Safe" is relative in ARK, but certain areas offer better protection than others. Consider these factors:
- Natural Defenses: Cliffs, mountains, and caves offer natural barriers against unwanted guests.
- Resource Density: Proximity to resources minimizes travel time and effort.
- Creature Density: Areas with fewer aggressive creatures are less risky.
Here are a few options:
- The Redwoods (South-West): The dense forest provides cover and ample wood, but be wary of the aggressive creatures lurking within.
- North-East Coast: This area offers decent resources and proximity to the ocean for fishing, though it can be prone to attacks from aquatic creatures.
- Mountainous Regions: High-altitude bases are challenging to reach for many creatures, but resource gathering can be more difficult.
Where are the best high-level base locations in ARK: The Island?
For experienced players, higher-level base locations present greater challenges but also greater rewards. Here are some considerations:
- Accessibility: How easy is it for you to reach your base and defend it?
- Defense: Can you effectively fortify your base against high-level threats?
- Resources: Are the necessary resources readily available or will you need to travel extensively to gather them?
Many players opt for mountain bases or those utilizing caves for better protection against high-level creatures like the Giga, Rex, and Alpha predators. The key is careful planning and strategic placement of defenses.
Where is a good base location for beginners?
Beginners should prioritize safety and resource accessibility. A location near a river, providing fresh water and easy access to stone and wood, is a good start. The South-West coast, near the redwoods, or even a small clearing near the beach (East Coast, relatively flat areas) would be suitable. Avoid heavily populated areas with aggressive high-level creatures early on.
What are the best spots to build a base near metal?
Metal is crucial for late-game progression. Locations near metal nodes, such as the mountains, are advantageous, but remember that these areas often attract higher-level creatures. Building near metal nodes usually necessitates robust defenses to safeguard your base. The mountainous regions offer abundant metal but also higher risks.
What are the best base locations to avoid?
Avoid areas teeming with highly aggressive creatures, such as the swamps (which are rife with dangerous creatures and disease) or densely populated areas of large predators. Areas near the volcano are also incredibly dangerous, particularly for beginners, due to extreme temperatures and high-level creature spawns.
This guide offers a starting point for your base-building journey in ARK: The Island. Remember that the "best" location ultimately depends on your playstyle, experience, and preferred level of challenge. Careful planning, resource management, and effective defense are crucial for survival and success in this challenging world.
