Introduction
Imagine the roar of the ocean, the shimmer of sunlight dancing on the waves, and the thrill of controlling one of the ocean’s most fearsome predators: the Megalodon. In the vast, prehistoric world of ARK: Survival Evolved, these colossal sharks are not just enemies to be feared, they are companions, beasts of burden, and formidable allies in the fight for survival. This guide will delve deep into the art of taming a Megalodon, arming you with the knowledge you need to secure your very own aquatic behemoth, including the crucial details on what to feed it.
From the depths of the ocean’s trenches to the sun-drenched shallows, the Megalodon reigns supreme, a testament to the game’s commitment to prehistoric realism. These massive sharks, with their rows of razor-sharp teeth and powerful build, are more than just a spectacle; they’re a resource. Taming a Megalodon opens up a world of possibilities. Imagine traversing the ocean at incredible speeds, harvesting underwater resources with ease, and leading your own aquatic assault force against rival tribes.
Before embarking on this thrilling journey, you need to prepare. Forget the reckless abandon of the inexperienced survivor; successful Megalodon taming requires meticulous planning and foresight. You will need a collection of vital resources, a strategic location, and a deep understanding of the shark’s physiology and dietary preferences.
Preparing for the Tame
Gathering the Necessary Resources
Your success hinges on having the correct tools. First and foremost, you’ll need a means to render the Megalodon unconscious. While brute force may work on lesser creatures, the Megalodon requires a more refined approach.
Tranquilizing Ammunition
Prepare yourself for the task by gathering both Tranquilizer Arrows and Tranq Darts. Which you use depends on the stage of the game you are at and your preferred weaponry. Tranq darts, fired from a longneck rifle, are generally considered the more effective choice for their higher torpor damage and accuracy.
The Antidote for Sleep
No matter which method you choose, you’ll also need a plentiful supply of Narcotics or Narcoberries. Narcotics, crafted in a Mortar and Pestle using Narcoberries and Spoiled Meat, are the more potent of the two and the preferred method of keeping your target asleep. Narcoberries, gathered from various bushes, are a more readily available but less effective option, which is usually best used when you have no other choice. These resources are your key to managing the Megalodon’s torpor.
The Right Tools
You will need a Mortar and Pestle, or a Chemistry Bench, for crafting Narcotics. You will also need a Smithy, or a Fabricator, to craft your ammunition. Don’t forget to prepare a storage box nearby to store your resources.
The Saddle of Kings
Once you’ve successfully tamed your Megalodon, you’ll want to ride it! That means crafting a Megalodon Saddle. You’ll need the appropriate materials, the exact ingredients can be seen within your game, and then craft it at a Smithy.
Finding the Perfect Specimen
Once your inventory is prepared, it’s time to find a Megalodon. These magnificent creatures primarily inhabit the oceans, making the search both exhilarating and dangerous.
Ocean Havens
You’ll often find them swimming in open waters. The open ocean, especially around deeper trenches and near underwater caves. Be aware, they may be found in areas where other dangerous aquatic creatures such as Alpha Mosasaur exist.
Identifying Your Prey
Look for a Megalodon with the desired stats. Higher-level Megalodons will be stronger and have more potential, but they will be much harder to tame.
Preparing Your Battlefield
Now, the real work begins. Taming a Megalodon in the open ocean is a risky proposition, so it’s best to take precautions.
Creating a Safe Zone
If possible, you can attempt to lure the Megalodon into a natural cove or create a “taming pen” using structures. This prevents the shark from wandering off or attracting unwanted attention from other predators.
Underwater Fortification
If you don’t have a structure, it is best to be in a good position in the shallows.
Oxygen Supply
Consider your own oxygen needs. Using SCUBA gear or a high-oxygen mount is crucial for extended underwater operations.
Knocking Out the Shark
With your preparations complete, it’s time to begin the knockout.
Weapon of Choice
Ideally, the Longneck Rifle and Tranq Darts.
Precise Aim
The Megalodon is a swift swimmer. Aim ahead of its movement to compensate. Hitting them in the head will not result in more damage.
Dose and Delivery
The number of darts required will vary based on the Megalodon’s level and the quality of your ammunition. Be prepared to administer several hits. Keep a close eye on its torpor meter.
The Art of Torpor Management
As the Megalodon’s torpor rises, it will become unconscious. However, its torpor also depletes. This is where Narcotics and Narcoberries become critical.
Understanding Torpor
Torpor is the stat that determines how long a creature remains unconscious. The higher the torpor, the longer it sleeps.
The Constant Cycle
A Megalodon’s torpor will decrease over time. You need to keep it topped up with Narcotics or Narcoberries.
Timing is Everything
Administer Narcotics or Narcoberries as needed.
Essential Food Choices: The Key to Taming Success
Now comes the crucial element: the food. A starving Megalodon is a restless one. The quality of the food you provide significantly impacts the taming speed and effectiveness. This is where knowing what to feed a Megalodon becomes paramount.
Kibble: The King of Cuisine
If you want to tame efficiently, the optimal choice is Kibble. Superior Kibble, crafted using specific ingredients, is by far the most effective food. Always prioritize kibble if you can acquire it.
Raw Mutton: A Close Second
Sourced from killing the Ovis, Raw Mutton provides a significant boost to taming effectiveness. It’s an excellent alternative to kibble.
Raw Prime Meat: A Solid Option
Killing Alpha predators is risky but rewarding. Raw Prime Meat provides a decent taming bonus.
Raw Meat: The Slow and Steady
While the least efficient option, Raw Meat is still viable. It’s a slower process, but it will get the job done.
Food Tactics and Tips
Effective food management can make or break your taming endeavor.
Prioritize Efficiency
Always feed the best food you have available.
Portion Control
Place one or two pieces of food in the Megalodon’s inventory at a time.
Preservation
Make sure you have storage.
After the Tame: Embracing Your Aquatic Partner
You’ve done it! You’ve successfully tamed a Megalodon. But your journey is far from over.
Naming Rights
Give your new companion a fitting name.
Saddle Up
Craft and equip the Megalodon Saddle to ride your new beast.
The Many Uses
Ride your Megalodon across the open ocean.
Mastering the Megalodon: Combat, Transportation, and Beyond
Aquatic Combat
The Megalodon is a ferocious combatant, ripping through enemies with its powerful jaws.
Oceanic Exploration
It is a fantastic travel mount, traversing the oceans at incredible speeds.
Resource Gathering
It can gather various resources from the ocean depths.
Caring for Your Aquatic Friend: Ongoing Needs
A tamed Megalodon requires ongoing care.
Regular Meals
Keep its food and water levels topped up.
Health and Healing
Monitor its health and use healing items.
Troubleshooting Common Taming Issues
No undertaking is without its challenges.
Escape Artists and Casualties
Protect the Megalodon.
Ineffective Taming
Ensure you are using the appropriate food.
Spoiled Food
Store your food in places where it will keep longer.
Dealing with Rivals
Protect the shark from other predators.
The Rewards of the Hunt
Taming a Megalodon is an achievement, a testament to your skill and persistence. It’s a thrilling experience. The Megalodon is a powerful ally, a valuable asset, and a symbol of mastery in the vast world of ARK: Survival Evolved.
So, gather your resources, hone your skills, and prepare to plunge into the depths. The ocean awaits, and the Megalodon is calling. Go forth and dominate the aquatic realm!
