ARK: Survival Evolved offers a rich sandbox experience where players must survive in a world teeming with dangerous creatures and environmental challenges. One of the essential survival techniques in ARK is mastering raft building, which can provide both transportation and a mobile base. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of raft building in ARK, ensuring that you can create a sturdy and functional watercraft.
Why Build a Raft in ARK?
Before diving into the construction details, let’s understand why raft building is crucial:
Mobility and Exploration
Rafts allow players to traverse bodies of water quickly, opening up new areas for exploration, resource gathering, and finding hidden treasures. Whether you’re navigating through rivers, lakes, or oceans, a raft can make your journey significantly easier and safer.
Versatility and Customization
Rafts in ARK can be customized to serve various purposes. You can design a simple transport vessel, a floating taming platform, or even a full-fledged mobile base complete with crafting stations and storage units.
Safety and Shelter
Housing on a raft can offer protection from land-based predators and hostile players. With the ability to move your base, you can always find a safe and strategic location to anchor your raft.
Materials Needed for Raft Building in ARK
Crafting a basic raft in ARK doesn’t require an extensive list of materials. Here’s what you need for the initial build:
– 250x Wood
– 125x Fiber
– 75x Hide
Gather these resources by harvesting trees, plants, and hunting animals. Once you have the required materials, you can craft the raft directly from your inventory.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Raft
Step 1: Craft the Raft
Navigate to the crafting menu and locate the raft blueprint. After gathering the necessary materials, craft the raft and place it in your quick access toolbar.
Step 2: Launch the Raft
Find a suitable body of water and deploy your raft. Make sure the area is deep enough to accommodate the raft without getting stuck.
Step 3: Basic Construction
Begin by placing foundational structures on your raft. The basic raft can support up to 88 structures. Start with foundations and then add walls, ceilings, and ramps as needed.
Step 4: Customize Your Raft
This step is where your creativity comes into play. Here are a few customization tips:
– **Storage Units**: Add storage boxes to keep your resources and gear organized.
– **Crafting Stations**: Install crafting stations like the Smithy, Fabricator, and Cooking Pot.
– **Taming Pen**: Design a taming pen by constructing walls and ramps, enabling you to tame creatures while afloat.
– **Defensive Structures**: Place turrets and plant species for additional defense against threats.
Advanced Raft Building Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you may want to explore more advanced raft-building techniques to enhance functionality and aesthetics.
Building a Clipper Ship
For those looking to venture into deeper waters and deal with aquatic threats, creating a clipper ship can be an exciting challenge. Use metal structures and additional layers of walling to make a sturdy, sea-worthy vessel.
Creating a Mobile Fortress
If you need maximum security, consider building a fortified raft. Add multiple layers of walls and ceilings, and use behemoth gateways for easy access. Equipping your raft with heavy turrets and spike walls can turn it into an impregnable floating fortress.
Tips and Tricks for Efficient Raft Building
Mind the Structure Limit
Each raft has a limit to the number of structures it can support (88 for a basic raft), so plan your build efficiently to maximize space without compromising functionality.
Utilize Snap Points
When placing structures, use snap points to align everything correctly. This ensures stability and makes your raft look more polished.
Keep Weight in Check
Inventory and structure weight can affect raft speed and maneuverability. Be mindful of your raft’s weight limit to avoid sluggish performance in the water.
Stay Up-to-Date
ARK frequently receives updates, which may introduce new building mechanics or change existing ones. Keep an eye on patch notes to stay informed about any adjustments that could impact your raft-building strategies.
Conclusion: Set Sail with Confidence!
Raft building in ARK: Survival Evolved is more than just a means of transportation; it’s an art form that enhances your gameplay experience. Whether you’re a solo explorer or part of a tribe, mastering the intricacies of raft construction will provide you with a versatile mobile base and a safer way to navigate the game’s waterways.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’re well on your way to becoming a skilled raft builder. With practice and creativity, you’ll be able to design the perfect watercraft to suit your needs. So gather your materials, unleash your imagination, and set sail with confidence!
