Unveiling The Ultimate Ark: Survival Evolved Animal Companions

12 Jan 2024

In the vast and unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, taming and utilizing the game's diverse array of creatures is a fundamental aspect of survival and progression. Among the many creatures available to tame, some stand out as exceptional choices due to their unique abilities, versatility, and overall effectiveness in various gameplay scenarios. This article delves into the realm of ARK's tameable creatures, exploring which ones offer the greatest benefits and why they deserve consideration as the "best" options.

The importance of choosing the right creatures to tame cannot be overstated. A well-chosen companion can provide invaluable assistance in hunting, gathering, combat, exploration, and resource acquisition. Certain creatures, such as the Argentavis, possess exceptional mobility and carrying capacity, making them ideal for long-distance travel and transporting large quantities of resources. Others, like the Ankylosaurus, excel at harvesting specific resources, such as metal and flint, with remarkable efficiency. The versatility of creatures like the Doedicurus, which can gather both stone and wood, further enhances their value in a survival setting.

To better understand the diverse roles that tamed creatures play in ARK, let's explore some of the most popular and effective options:

What is the Best Animals to Tame in ARK?

In the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, taming and utilizing the game's diverse array of creatures is crucial for survival and progression. Among the many creatures available to tame, some stand out as exceptional choices due to their unique abilities, versatility, and overall effectiveness in various gameplay scenarios.

Utility: Creatures like the Ankylosaurus and Doedicurus excel at specific resource-gathering tasks.
Mobility: Argentavis and Tapejara offer exceptional mobility and carrying capacity for travel and transport.
Combat: Rexes and Giganotosaurus are formidable predators, while creatures like the Spino excel in both land and water combat.
Versatility: Creatures like the Baryonyx and Therizinosaurus can adapt to various roles, from combat to resource gathering.
Taming Difficulty: Some creatures, such as the Quetzal and Wyvern, pose significant challenges to tame but offer immense rewards.
Resource Investment: Taming and maintaining certain creatures, like the Giganotosaurus, requires substantial resource investment.
Pack Bonuses: Creatures like the Direwolf and Allosaurus gain significant stat boosts when in packs, enhancing their effectiveness.
Environmental Adaptation: Creatures like the Thylacoleo and Megaloceros excel in specific biomes, providing advantages in those environments.
Special Abilities: Creatures like the Basilosaurus and Manta have unique abilities, such as underwater breathing and electricity generation.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, the "best" animals to tame in ARK also depend on individual playstyles and preferences.

These key aspects provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating and selecting the best animals to tame in ARK. By considering these factors, players can make informed decisions that align with their gameplay objectives and survival strategies.

Utility

In the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, resource gathering is paramount for survival and progression. Certain creatures possess exceptional abilities that make them invaluable partners for specific resource-gathering tasks.

Specialized Resource Harvesting: Creatures like the Ankylosaurus and Doedicurus are highly specialized in harvesting specific resources. The Ankylosaurus excels at gathering metal and flint, while the Doedicurus efficiently gathers stone and wood. Their unique abilities and harvesting bonuses make them indispensable for amassing these essential resources.
Efficiency and Speed: These creatures not only excel at gathering specific resources but do so with remarkable efficiency and speed. Their specialized tools and abilities allow them to extract resources at a significantly faster rate than humans, saving players valuable time and effort.
Resource Abundance: ARK's vast and diverse biomes offer an abundance of resources, but locating and harvesting them manually can be time-consuming. Specialized resource-gathering creatures enable players to quickly identify and extract these resources, ensuring a steady supply of essential materials.

The utility of creatures like the Ankylosaurus and Doedicurus extends beyond mere resource gathering. Their ability to harvest specific resources efficiently and quickly makes them invaluable assets for building, crafting, and maintaining a thriving ARK settlement. By utilizing these creatures' specialized skills, players can streamline their resource acquisition process, optimize their survival strategies, and ultimately achieve greater success in the game.

Mobility

In the vast and unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, mobility and transport play crucial roles in exploration, resource acquisition, and survival itself. Among the diverse creatures available to tame, the Argentavis and Tapejara stand out for their exceptional mobility and carrying capacity, making them invaluable assets for traversing ARK's expansive landscapes and transporting essential resources.

Swift and Agile Flyers: Argentavis and Tapejara possess remarkable aerial mobility, soaring through the skies with speed and agility. Their ability to navigate complex terrain, access remote areas, and quickly cover long distances makes them ideal for exploration and scouting.
Exceptional Carrying Capacity: Both creatures boast impressive carrying capacities, allowing players to transport large quantities of resources, building materials, and even other tamed creatures. This capacity greatly enhances resource gathering efficiency and simplifies the transportation of essential supplies across ARK's vast biomes.
Strategic Advantages: The mobility and carrying capacity of Argentavis and Tapejara offer strategic advantages in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Players can quickly relocate resources and supplies to secure locations, reinforce vulnerable outposts, or launch aerial attacks on enemy bases.
Exploration and Accessibility: The ability to fly and transport resources opens up new possibilities for exploration and accessibility. Players can venture into previously unreachable areas, discover hidden resources, and establish remote outposts, expanding their reach and control over ARK's diverse environments.

The exceptional mobility and carrying capacity of Argentavis and Tapejara make them indispensable companions for players seeking to explore, gather resources, and thrive in the challenging world of ARK: Survival Evolved. Their unique capabilities elevate them among the best animals to tame, empowering players with unparalleled mobility, transport efficiency, and strategic advantages.

Combat

In the perilous world of ARK: Survival Evolved, combat prowess is essential for survival and dominance. Among the diverse creatures available to tame, some stand out as formidable predators and exceptional fighters, offering players a significant advantage in combat scenarios. This section explores the connection between combat capabilities and the question of "what is the best animals to tame in ARK", examining the roles and effectiveness of creatures like Rexes, Giganotosaurus, and Spino in combat.

Unmatched Predatory Power: Rexes and Giganotosaurus are apex predators, possessing immense strength, powerful jaws, and devastating attacks. Their sheer power and ferocity make them formidable opponents in close combat, capable of taking down even the most formidable foes.
Versatile Land and Water Dominance: Spinosaurus stands out as a unique and highly effective combatant, excelling not only on land but also in water environments. Its amphibious nature and powerful attacks make it a formidable threat in both domains, offering players strategic advantages in various combat situations.
Pack Hunting and Coordinated Attacks: Certain creatures, like Direwolves and Allosaurus, possess pack-based combat abilities. When tamed in groups, these creatures gain significant stat boosts and coordinated attack patterns, making them highly effective in pack hunting and overwhelming larger opponents.
Specialized Combat Adaptations: Some creatures possess unique combat adaptations that provide them with distinct advantages. For example, the Thylacoleo's tree-climbing abilities and powerful claws make it a formidable ambush predator, while the Megaloceros's antlers grant it exceptional defense and ramming capabilities.

Understanding the combat capabilities of different creatures is crucial for selecting the best animals to tame in ARK. By considering the strengths and weaknesses of various creatures in combat, players can assemble a formidable team of tamed companions that will enhance their survival, secure their territory, and dominate in PvP battles.

Versatility

In the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, versatility is a highly sought-after trait in tamed creatures. Creatures that can adapt to various roles provide players with a significant advantage, allowing them to excel in multiple aspects of survival and combat.

Multifaceted Capabilities: Creatures like the Baryonyx and Therizinosaurus possess a unique combination of abilities that make them effective in diverse situations. The Baryonyx, for example, is a formidable predator with sharp claws and powerful jaws, but it can also gather fish and other aquatic resources with ease. The Therizinosaurus, on the other hand, is an exceptional herbivore with massive claws that can inflict significant damage in combat.
Adaptability to Different Environments: Versatile creatures can thrive in various biomes and environments. The Baryonyx's amphibious nature allows it to navigate both land and water, while the Therizinosaurus's long claws enable it to harvest resources from trees and bushes with remarkable efficiency.
Resourcefulness and Utility: Creatures with versatile abilities can contribute to a wide range of tasks. They can assist in hunting, gathering, combat, exploration, and even base defense. This versatility reduces the need for players to tame multiple specialized creatures, streamlining their gameplay and enhancing their overall survival experience.

The versatility of creatures like the Baryonyx and Therizinosaurus makes them invaluable assets for players seeking well-rounded companions in ARK: Survival Evolved. By considering the diverse capabilities of different creatures, players can assemble a team that can adapt to various challenges and maximize their chances of survival and success.

Taming Difficulty

In ARK: Survival Evolved, the creatures you choose to tame play a critical role in your survival and progression. Some creatures are relatively easy to tame, while others present formidable challenges. The difficulty of taming a creature is often directly related to the rewards it offers. This section explores the connection between taming difficulty and the value of tamed creatures, examining the factors that influence this relationship.

Rarity and Uniqueness: Certain creatures in ARK are rare and difficult to find. These creatures often possess unique abilities or traits that make them highly sought after. The challenge of taming these creatures is part of their allure, as players are rewarded with exceptional companions that can provide significant advantages.
Exceptional Abilities and Stats: Creatures that are difficult to tame often possess exceptional abilities or high stats. These traits can make them formidable allies in combat, efficient resource gatherers, or reliable mounts for exploration. The challenge of taming these creatures is justified by the immense benefits they offer.
Environmental Challenges: Some creatures inhabit dangerous or remote areas, making it challenging to locate and tame them. These environmental challenges add an extra layer of difficulty to the taming process. However, successfully taming these creatures often grants players access to unique resources or allows them to establish strategic outposts in otherwise inaccessible locations.
Resource Investment: Taming certain creatures requires significant resources, such as rare food items or specialized structures. The challenge of acquiring these resources adds to the overall difficulty of the taming process. However, the investment is often worthwhile, as these creatures can provide substantial returns in terms of their abilities and utility.

Understanding the relationship between taming difficulty and the value of tamed creatures is essential for making informed decisions when selecting companions in ARK: Survival Evolved. By carefully considering the challenges and rewards associated with different creatures, players can assemble a team that aligns with their playstyle and maximizes their chances of success in the unforgiving world of ARK.

Resource Investment

In the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, the decision of which creatures to tame is heavily influenced by the resources required for their acquisition and upkeep. Some creatures, such as the formidable Giganotosaurus, demand a substantial investment of resources to tame and maintain, making them a significant commitment for players.

The resource investment associated with taming and maintaining certain creatures stems from several factors. Firstly, these creatures often require specialized food sources, such as rare meats or exotic plants, which can be challenging to obtain in large quantities. Secondly, building appropriate structures to house and secure these creatures can consume significant resources, especially for larger species like the Giganotosaurus.

Despite the challenges, the potential benefits of taming and maintaining resource-intensive creatures can be immense. The Giganotosaurus, for example, is one of the most powerful predators in ARK, capable of taking down even the most formidable foes. Its strength and ferocity make it an invaluable asset in combat and hunting. However, players must carefully weigh these benefits against the substantial resource investment required to acquire and maintain such a creature.

Understanding the connection between resource investment and the value of tamed creatures is essential for making informed decisions when selecting companions in ARK: Survival Evolved. By considering the long-term costs and benefits associated with different creatures, players can optimize their resource allocation and assemble a team that aligns with their playstyle and goals.

Pack Bonuses

In the unforgiving wilderness of ARK: Survival Evolved, forming alliances with tamed creatures is crucial for survival and dominance. Among the diverse creatures available for domestication, some possess a unique ability known as "pack bonuses." This phenomenon grants significant stat boosts to creatures when they are tamed in groups, making them even more formidable and effective in various aspects of gameplay.

Enhanced Combat Prowess: Creatures like the Direwolf and Allosaurus gain substantial increases in their attack power and damage resistance when in packs. This synergy makes them formidable hunting companions, capable of taking down larger prey and defending against enemy attacks more effectively.
Increased Mobility and Stamina: Pack bonuses often enhance the mobility and stamina of creatures. For instance, the Raptor gains increased movement speed and reduced stamina consumption when in a pack, allowing for faster exploration and more efficient traversal of ARK's vast landscapes.
Improved Resource Gathering: Certain creatures, such as the Doedicurus, receive pack bonuses that boost their resource-gathering capabilities. When tamed in groups, they can harvest resources at an accelerated rate, making resource acquisition more efficient and less time-consuming.
Specialized Pack Roles: Some creatures have pack bonuses that provide specialized roles within a group. For example, the Baryonyx gains a damage bonus against aquatic creatures when in a pack, making it an ideal choice for hunting or defending against underwater threats.

Understanding the benefits of pack bonuses is essential for assembling an effective team of tamed creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved. By carefully selecting creatures with complementary pack bonuses, players can create a cohesive unit that excels in various gameplay scenarios, enhancing their chances of survival, conquest, and dominance in the unforgiving world of ARK.

Environmental Adaptation

In the diverse and unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, environmental adaptation plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of tamed creatures. Certain creatures possess unique adaptations that grant them distinct advantages in specific biomes, making them invaluable assets for survival and exploration in those environments. Understanding these adaptations is essential for selecting the best animals to tame in ARK.

The Thylacoleo, for instance, is a marsupial predator that excels in the dense forests and jungles of ARK. Its sharp claws and arboreal agility allow it to navigate trees with ease, providing a significant advantage in traversing these environments and ambushing prey from above. The Megaloceros, on the other hand, is a large deer-like creature that thrives in the cold, mountainous regions of ARK. Its thick fur and surefootedness grant it exceptional mobility and endurance in these harsh conditions.

The environmental adaptation of creatures directly influences their effectiveness in various gameplay scenarios. By carefully selecting creatures that are well-suited to the biomes in which they will be primarily utilized, players can optimize their team's performance and increase their chances of survival. For example, taming a Thylacoleo is highly advantageous in forested areas, where its climbing abilities and ambush tactics can be fully exploited. Similarly, the Megaloceros is an ideal choice for expeditions into cold, mountainous regions, as its resilience and mobility in these conditions can greatly enhance exploration and resource gathering.

Furthermore, understanding environmental adaptation can help players anticipate and mitigate potential challenges. For instance, creatures that are not well-adapted to a particular biome may experience reduced stats or increased vulnerability to environmental hazards. By being aware of these limitations, players can make informed decisions about which creatures to bring on specific expeditions and how to best utilize their abilities within different environments.

In conclusion, environmental adaptation is a key factor to consider when selecting the best animals to tame in ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding the unique advantages that certain creatures possess in specific biomes, players can assemble a well-rounded team that is capable of thriving in diverse and challenging environments, maximizing their chances of survival, exploration, and conquest.

Special Abilities

In the diverse and unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, creatures possess an array of unique abilities that can significantly impact their effectiveness and utility. Some creatures have evolved remarkable adaptations that grant them special powers, making them invaluable assets for various gameplay scenarios and environments.

Aquatic Supremacy: Creatures like the Basilosaurus possess the remarkable ability to breathe underwater indefinitely. This adaptation makes them indispensable for exploring the depths of ARK's vast oceans, where they can hunt for aquatic resources, gather rare materials, and engage in underwater combat. Their ability to navigate and thrive in aquatic environments provides a distinct advantage in these areas.
Electrical Prowess: Creatures such as the Manta and Electrophorus have the unique ability to generate and discharge electricity. This ability can be used to stun or damage enemies, making these creatures formidable adversaries in combat. Additionally, the Manta's electrical field can be utilized to illuminate underwater environments, providing an advantage in dark and murky depths.
Aerial Maneuverability: Certain creatures, like the Argentavis and Tapejara, possess exceptional aerial mobility. They can soar through the skies, covering vast distances quickly and accessing areas that are difficult or impossible to reach on foot. This mobility grants players a significant advantage in exploration, resource gathering, and aerial combat.
Environmental Resistance: Some creatures have evolved adaptations that provide resistance to specific environmental hazards. For example, the Snow Owl can withstand extreme cold without suffering any penalties, making it an ideal companion for expeditions into frigid regions. Similarly, the Desert Titan possesses heat resistance, allowing it to thrive in scorching deserts without succumbing to heatstroke.

Understanding and leveraging the special abilities of different creatures is crucial for selecting the best animals to tame in ARK: Survival Evolved. By carefully considering the unique capabilities of each creature and matching them with specific gameplay objectives and environments, players can assemble a diverse team of tamed companions that maximizes their chances of survival, exploration, and conquest in the unforgiving world of ARK.

Personal Preference

In the diverse and ever-evolving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, the concept of the "best" animals to tame is not solely defined by objective metrics or universal consensus. Personal preference plays a significant role in determining which creatures align best with individual playstyles and goals. This section explores the connection between personal preference and the selection of tamed companions in ARK.

Playstyle Compatibility: Each player's unique playstyle influences their choice of tamed creatures. Those who favor exploration and mobility may prioritize creatures with exceptional movement capabilities, such as the Argentavis or Tapejara. Conversely, players focused on combat and resource gathering may seek creatures like the Rex or Ankylosaurus.
Environmental Adaptation: The environments in which players primarily operate also impact their creature preferences. For example, players venturing into aquatic environments may prioritize creatures like the Basilosaurus or Manta, while those exploring icy regions may find the Snow Owl or Megaloceros more suitable.
Aesthetic Appeal: The visual appearance and overall design of creatures can also influence personal preferences. Some players may be drawn to creatures with striking or unique designs, such as the Griffin or the Wyvern, regardless of their practical utility.
Sentimental Value: Emotional attachment can play a role in determining the "best" animals to tame. Players may form strong bonds with certain creatures based on shared experiences or personal significance, regardless of their objective capabilities.

Understanding the role of personal preference in selecting tamed creatures empowers players to assemble a team that aligns with their unique gameplay experience. By considering their playstyle, environment, aesthetic preferences, and emotional connections, players can make informed decisions that enhance their enjoyment and success in ARK: Survival Evolved.

FAQs on the Best Animals to Tame in ARK

The vast world of ARK: Survival Evolved offers a diverse array of creatures to tame, each with unique abilities and characteristics. Understanding which creatures are best suited for specific tasks and playstyles is crucial for survival and success. This FAQ section addresses common questions and concerns regarding the best animals to tame in ARK, providing valuable insights for both new and experienced players.

Question 1: What are the key factors to consider when selecting the best animals to tame?

When choosing creatures to tame, consider factors such as their combat prowess, resource-gathering capabilities, mobility, environmental adaptability, and special abilities. Additionally, personal preferences and playstyle should influence your decision.

Question 2: Which creatures are recommended for beginners?

For beginners, creatures like the Trike, Stegosaurus, and Ankylosaurus are excellent choices. They offer a balance of combat abilities and resource-gathering capabilities, making them versatile companions in the early stages of the game.

Question 3: What are the best creatures for combat?

For formidable combat companions, consider taming creatures like the Rex, Spinosaurus, and Giganotosaurus. These apex predators possess immense strength and powerful attacks, making them invaluable assets in battles.

Question 4: Which creatures excel at resource gathering?

For efficient resource gathering, creatures like the Ankylosaurus, Doedicurus, and Castoroides are highly recommended. They possess specialized tools and abilities that allow them to harvest specific resources at accelerated rates.

Question 5: What creatures are best suited for exploration and mobility?

For traversing ARK's vast landscapes, creatures like the Argentavis, Tapejara, and Quetzal are exceptional choices. Their flying capabilities and impressive carrying capacities make them ideal for long-distance travel and transporting resources.

Question 6: How can I determine which creatures are best for my specific playstyle?

Consider your preferred gameplay approach and the environments you frequent. If you favor combat, focus on taming creatures with strong attack capabilities. If you prefer exploration, prioritize creatures with mobility and stamina. Understanding your playstyle will guide you towards the best animal companions for your unique ARK experience.

In conclusion, selecting the best animals to tame in ARK involves careful consideration of their abilities, playstyle compatibility, and personal preferences. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different creatures, players can assemble a diverse team of tamed companions that will enhance their survival, exploration, and combat prowess in the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved.

Transition to the next article section: Advanced Taming Techniques for Experienced ARK Players

Tips for Selecting the Best Animals to Tame in ARK

In the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, selecting the best animals to tame can significantly enhance your chances of survival, exploration, and conquest. Here are several valuable tips to guide you in choosing the ideal companions for your ARK journey:

Tip 1: Consider Your Playstyle

Identify your preferred gameplay style and the tasks you intend to undertake most frequently. Whether you favor combat, resource gathering, exploration, or a combination thereof, selecting creatures that align with your playstyle will maximize their effectiveness.

Tip 2: Research Creature Abilities

Familiarize yourself with the unique abilities of different creatures. Some excel at combat, while others possess specialized skills for resource gathering or environmental adaptability. Understanding these abilities will help you make informed decisions about which creatures to add to your team.

Tip 3: Assess Taming Difficulty

Taming certain creatures can be challenging, requiring specialized strategies and resources. Consider the difficulty of taming when selecting creatures, and ensure you have the necessary preparation and resources to successfully tame and maintain them.

Tip 4: Prioritize Versatility

Creatures that offer a combination of abilities can be invaluable assets. Consider taming creatures with both combat prowess and resource-gathering capabilities, or those that can adapt to diverse environments. Versatility will enhance your team's overall effectiveness.

Tip 5: Leverage Environmental Adaptations

Some creatures possess unique adaptations that make them particularly effective in specific environments. For example, the Thylacoleo excels in forests, while the Megaloceros is well-suited for mountainous regions. Matching creatures to their ideal environments will maximize their performance and survival.

Key Takeaways:

Align creature selection with your playstyle and gameplay objectives.
Research creature abilities and select those that complement your needs.
Consider the difficulty of taming and ensure you have the necessary resources.
Prioritize versatile creatures that offer a range of abilities.
Match creatures to their ideal environments to maximize their effectiveness.

By following these tips, you can make informed decisions when selecting the best animals to tame in ARK: Survival Evolved, enhancing your survival, exploration, and combat capabilities in the unforgiving world of ARK.

Conclusion

Navigating the vast world of ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful consideration in selecting the best animals to tame. By understanding creature abilities, playstyle compatibility, and personal preferences, players can assemble a diverse team of tamed companions that will enhance their survival, exploration, and combat prowess. Whether seeking formidable predators for combat, efficient gatherers for resource acquisition, or versatile companions for diverse tasks, ARK offers a wide range of creatures to suit every gameplay style.

The choice of the "best" animals to tame is ultimately subjective, influenced by individual goals and preferences. However, by following the tips and insights provided in this article, players can make informed decisions that will optimize their gameplay experience and maximize their chances of success in the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved.