What is the best way to tame a high-level Manta in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Manta in ARK: Survival Evolved can be a challenging but rewarding task. Mantas are fast, aggressive creatures found in the ocean, and they require a specific approach to tame effectively. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Manta, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

First, it is important to understand the mechanics of taming a Manta. Mantas are passive tames, meaning you do not need to knock them out. Instead, you must feed them their preferred food while avoiding their attacks. Mantas prefer Angler Gel, which can be obtained by killing Anglerfish in the ocean. Anglerfish are bioluminescent creatures found in deeper waters, and they drop Angler Gel when harvested. You will need a decent amount of Angler Gel to tame a high-level Manta, so prepare accordingly.

To begin the taming process, you will need to locate a Manta. Mantas are commonly found in the ocean, often in groups. They are fast swimmers and can be aggressive if you get too close. It is recommended to use a strong water mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a Tuso, to approach the Manta safely. These mounts provide protection and mobility, making it easier to stay close to the Manta without being attacked.

Once you have located a high-level Manta, the next step is to feed it Angler Gel. Approach the Manta slowly and carefully, as sudden movements can startle it. When you are close enough, open your inventory and transfer the Angler Gel to the Manta. The Manta will consume the Angler Gel, and its taming progress will increase. Be prepared to repeat this process multiple times, as high-level Mantas require a significant amount of Angler Gel to tame fully.

One important tip is to stay close to the Manta after feeding it. Mantas have a short attention span, and if you move too far away, they may lose interest and reset their taming progress. Keep a steady pace and follow the Manta as it swims around. This can be tricky, especially in open water, so having a fast and agile mount is crucial.

Another consideration is the presence of other predators in the ocean. While taming the Manta, you may encounter hostile creatures like Megalodons or Jellyfish. These creatures can disrupt the taming process or even kill the Manta. To avoid this, try to find a relatively safe area to tame the Manta, or use your mount to fend off any threats. Having a tribe member assist you can also be beneficial, as they can help protect you and the Manta during the taming process.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong food or not having enough Angler Gel. Mantas will only accept Angler Gel, so bringing other types of food will not work. Additionally, underestimating the amount of Angler Gel needed can lead to an incomplete tame. Always gather more Angler Gel than you think you will need to ensure a successful tame.

Advanced techniques for taming a Manta include using a taming pen. While this is more challenging in the water, it is possible to build a pen using foundations and walls to trap the Manta temporarily. This can make the taming process easier by keeping the Manta in one place. However, building underwater structures requires careful planning and resources, so this method is best suited for experienced players or tribes.

Resource requirements for taming a Manta include Angler Gel, a strong water mount, and possibly materials for a taming pen. Angler Gel is the most critical resource, so prioritize gathering it before attempting to tame a Manta. You may also want to bring extra food and medical supplies for yourself and your mount, as the ocean can be a dangerous place.

Tribe and solo considerations are also important. Taming a Manta solo is possible but can be more challenging due to the need to multitask between feeding the Manta and defending against threats. In a tribe, you can assign roles, such as one person feeding the Manta while another protects against predators. This can make the process smoother and more efficient.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Manta in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, patience, and the right resources. By understanding the mechanics, following the step-by-step strategies, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a Manta to aid in your underwater adventures. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, a tamed Manta can be a valuable asset for exploring the ocean and gathering resources.