Taming the Titans: What Knocks Out a Rock Golem in Ark: Survival Evolved?
Rock Elementals, often referred to as Rock Golems, are formidable creatures in Ark: Survival Evolved. They are known for their high health, substantial damage, and the sheer difficulty involved in taming them. Unlike many other creatures in Ark, they don’t succumb to traditional tranquilizers. So, what exactly knocks out a Rock Golem? The answer is explosive power. These behemoths are primarily brought down using explosive weaponry such as Cannons firing Cannonballs and Rocket Launchers firing Rockets. Understanding the nuances of using these methods is crucial for anyone looking to add one of these rocky giants to their collection.
Explosives: The Key to Subduing a Rock Golem
Cannonballs: The Most Effective Torpor Method
When it comes to reliably knocking out a Rock Golem, Cannonballs fired from a Cannon are generally considered the most effective method. The Cannon delivers a substantial amount of torpor per shot, making it the preferred choice for most players. Here’s how to use cannonballs effectively:
- Preparation is Key: Before engaging a Rock Golem, you need to prepare adequately. This means crafting the necessary Cannonballs and ensuring you have a stable platform for your Cannon.
- The Platform: A common strategy is to use a Paracer with a platform saddle to mount the cannon. This allows for some maneuverability while engaging the golem. Alternatively, you can place the cannon on a secured metal foundation near the golem’s spawn area.
- Strategic Placement: Position the cannon so that you have a clear line of sight to the golem and the area where you plan to trap it.
- Firing Sequence: Once the cannon is set, begin firing at the golem. The number of cannonballs required depends on the golem’s level. Use the formula y=(5000+100x)/1800 to estimate the number of cannonballs you’ll need, where ‘y’ represents cannonballs and ‘x’ is the golem’s level. Always bring a few extra, as it’s better to be overprepared.
Rockets: A Viable Alternative
While not as torpor-efficient as cannonballs, Rockets fired from a Rocket Launcher are also a valid method to knock out a Rock Golem. This method is more mobile and requires a different approach:
- Mobility Advantage: The Rocket Launcher offers the advantage of mobility, allowing you to engage the golem while on the move. This can be beneficial in certain terrains or situations where a static cannon position is not feasible.
- Careful Aim: Aiming rockets can be tricky, as splash damage can sometimes hurt you. Ensure you’re at a safe distance from the blast radius.
- Resource Intensive: Rockets can be more resource-intensive compared to cannonballs. Make sure you have a good supply before starting the tame.
Trapping is Essential
Regardless of whether you use a cannon or rockets, trapping the golem is critical. You don’t want to lose your progress and your equipment. Here’s an easy and effective method:
- Dino Gate Trap: Place two Dino Gates side by side. Aggro the Golem by getting close. Run through the gap and place the Dino gate behind it as quickly as possible so that the Golem can’t escape.
- Avoid Movement: Once trapped, the golem is stationary, making it easier to aim your shots.
Other Methods That DON’T Work
It’s important to note that traditional knockout methods are ineffective on Rock Golems:
- Tranq Darts and Arrows: These are useless. Rock Golems are not susceptible to torpor induced by these methods.
- Melee Attacks: Normal melee attacks will not knock out a Rock Golem.
- Drowning: Rock Golems lack an oxygen stat, rendering drowning an ineffective tactic.
Taming After Knockout
Once the Golem is down, you need to provide it with the correct food to tame it. The most effective method is using kibble, with the preferred kibble being Mantis Egg kibble. However, other resources like Stone, Sulfur and Clay can be used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Knocking Out Rock Golems
1. Can I use a catapult to knock out a Rock Golem?
While you can mount a Catapult on a Paracer platform saddle, it is not the most effective method. The Cannon delivers more torpor per shot, making it the superior option.
2. Can a ballista turret knock out a Rock Golem?
Like the catapult, a Ballista Turret can be mounted on a Paracer, but it is not efficient for knocking out Rock Golems. The damage and torpor applied are too low.
3. Are Rock Golems immune to bleed damage while knocked out?
No. Bleed Damage still works, even while the Rock Golem is unconscious. Bleeding is a good way to damage Rock Golems as it ignores its health and armor and can kill them, but it is a slow method.
4. How many cannonballs do I need to knock out a level 100 Rock Golem?
Using the formula, y = (5000 + 100x) / 1800, a level 100 Rock Golem would require approximately (5000 + 10000) / 1800 = 8.33, so around 9 cannonballs. Always bring a few extras.
5. Can I use a Tek Rifle to knock out a Rock Golem?
The Tek Rifle is not an effective tool for knocking out Rock Golems. It does not deliver torpor like explosives.
6. Can I tame a Rubble Golem?
No, the smaller variant of Rock Golems, the Rubble Golem, cannot be tamed. They are often found disguised as stone nodes.
7. Do Rock Golems take damage from lava?
No, Rock Golems are immune to damage from lava and other elemental attacks.
8. Are Rock Golems weak to pickaxes?
Yes, Pickaxes are the only weapon type they are weak to. However, they can only be attacked from behind and it can cause ground deformation. It’s very risky and not recommended for knocking a Golem out.
9. What do Rock Golems eat when tamed?
Once tamed, Rock Golems will eat Stone, Sulfur, or Clay if available. However, Kibble is the best choice for taming.
10. Are Rock Golems immune to fire?
Yes, Rock Golems are immune to fire and other debuffs like poison and confusion.
11. Can Rock Golems break stone structures?
Yes, Rock Golems are capable of breaking stone structures. Be sure to tame your Golem in a secure area.
12. Can you breed Rock Elementals?
No, Rock Elementals cannot be bred. The enable mating option is present on the Dino wheel, but does not function.
13. Can a Rex kill a Rock Golem?
Yes, a well-leveled Rex can kill a Rock Golem, but it may take some time and several breaks to recover stamina. It’s typically more efficient to use a Giga.
14. What’s the fastest way to get a Rock Golem pet in Runescape?
The fastest way to get a Rock Golem pet in Runescape is through mining gemstones underground in Shilo Village, with tick manipulation further speeding up the process.
15. What is the mythical origin of Golems?
A Golem is a mythical creature created from lifeless material, typically earth or clay, and brought to life through ritual incantations and Hebrew letters, usually to serve or protect a community.
In conclusion, while taming a Rock Golem in Ark: Survival Evolved can be a significant challenge, it is achievable with the right knowledge and preparation. Focusing on explosives, particularly Cannonballs fired from a Cannon, combined with effective trapping strategies, is the most reliable method for knocking them out. Be sure to stock up on the necessary resources, and you’ll be well on your way to adding these powerful creatures to your collection.