Do Bolas Work on Raptors in Ark? The Ultimate Taming Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The short answer is: yes, bolas work on standard Raptors in Ark: Survival Evolved. A well-placed bola will immobilize a regular Raptor, making it significantly easier to tame or evade. However, bolas do NOT work on Alpha Raptors. These enhanced predators are immune to the effects of the bola, demanding more advanced strategies for dealing with them. Let’s dive into the specifics of using bolas on Raptors and other essential Raptor-taming knowledge.
Understanding Bola Mechanics and Raptor Types
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to understand how bolas work in Ark and the different types of Raptors you’ll encounter. A bola is a ranged weapon that, when thrown successfully, temporarily immobilizes smaller creatures. This buys you valuable time to either escape, prepare for combat, or initiate the taming process.
The Standard Raptor: A Bola’s Best Friend
The standard Raptor is a medium-sized predator that’s relatively common in many areas of the Ark. They are fast, aggressive, and often travel in packs, making them a considerable threat to new players. However, their vulnerability to bolas makes them a manageable tame, even at lower levels.
The Alpha Raptor: A Different Beast Altogether
Alpha Raptors are significantly larger and more powerful than their standard counterparts. They have a glowing red aura, deal increased damage, and provide a buff to nearby wild Raptors. Crucially, they are immune to the immobilization effect of bolas. This means you can’t rely on the same tactics you’d use for a standard Raptor.
Taming a Regular Raptor with a Bola: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a breakdown of how to tame a Raptor using a bola:
- Preparation: Craft a bola (requires fiber, stone, and hide), a slingshot or bow with tranq arrows (tranq arrows are preferable), and a supply of raw meat (or better yet, raw prime meat). Narcotics or narcoberries are also essential for keeping the Raptor unconscious during the taming process.
- Location: Find a Raptor. Be aware of your surroundings and clear the area of other threats if possible. Raptors often travel in packs, so try to isolate a single Raptor if you can.
- Immobilization: Equip the bola and aim carefully. A direct hit is crucial. Once the bola is thrown and connects, the Raptor will be unable to move for a short period.
- Knockout: Immediately switch to your slingshot or bow and start firing at the Raptor’s head. Tranq arrows are significantly more effective and efficient. Keep an eye on the Raptor’s torpor (unconsciousness) level.
- Feeding: Once the Raptor is unconscious, access its inventory and place the raw meat (or raw prime meat) inside.
- Taming: The Raptor will slowly begin to tame. Keep an eye on its torpor level. If it starts to wake up, administer narcotics or narcoberries to keep it unconscious.
- Protection: Protect the unconscious Raptor from predators. Other dinos may see it as an easy meal.
- Completion: Once the taming bar is full, the Raptor is yours! Craft a saddle to ride it.
Dealing with Alpha Raptors: Bola-Free Strategies
Since bolas are ineffective against Alpha Raptors, you’ll need different strategies:
- Trapping: Build a sturdy trap using stone structures. Lure the Alpha Raptor into the trap and then seal it inside. This will allow you to attack it from a safe distance.
- High-Level Tames: Use powerful, high-level tames like a Mammoth or Triceratops to fight the Alpha Raptor. Their high health and damage output can make quick work of the Alpha.
- Kiting: Use a fast mount to kite the Alpha Raptor while attacking it with ranged weapons. Be careful not to get cornered!
- Avoidance: Sometimes, the best strategy is simply to avoid the Alpha Raptor altogether, especially if you’re low-level and unprepared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What animals can you use a bola on in Ark?
Many smaller creatures are susceptible to bolas, including Achatina, Araneo, Archaeopteryx, Beelzebufo, Bulbdog, and more. The size of the creature determines whether a bola will work.
2. How do you trap an Alpha Raptor?
A common trap design involves two stone foundations, six stone doorframes, and a ramp. Lure the Alpha Raptor into the trap, then quickly close off the entrance.
3. How many slingshot hits does it take to knock out a Raptor?
The number of slingshot hits depends on the Raptor’s level. A level 30 Raptor might take around 21 slingshot hits or 6 tranq arrows.
4. Can you tame a Raptor with a slingshot?
Yes, you can tame a Raptor with a slingshot, especially at lower levels. Bolasing them first is highly recommended as they are fast and aggressive. Raw meat is also required, and narcotics or narcoberries to keep them unconscious.
5. Are Raptors good to have in Ark?
Absolutely! Raptors are excellent early-game tames. They’re fast, agile, and can be powerful in packs. They serve as great scouts and can take on many wild dinos.
6. How many tranq darts for an Alpha Raptor?
Be prepared to use at least 200 tranquilizer darts when attempting to knock out an Alpha Raptor. They have high torpor, and the amount needed will be affected by the weapon damage and level.
7. Can Alpha Raptors be killed?
Yes, Alpha Raptors can be killed. High-level Mammoths, Triceratops, and Ankylosaurus are all capable of taking down Alpha Raptors.
8. Can an Argy pick up an Alpha Raptor?
No, Argentavis cannot pick up Alpha Raptors. They are too heavy to carry.
9. Can a bola stop a Raptor in Ark?
Yes, a bola can stop a standard Raptor. However, it will not work on Alpha Raptors.
10. Can you use a bola on a Griffin?
Yes, you can affect Griffins with bolas if you use the correct type, but it is more common to trap them in a taming pen.
11. Can I use a bola on a Dire Wolf?
Yes, using a bola on a Dire Wolf makes taming them much easier.
12. What is the best thing to tame a Raptor with?
The best method for taming Raptors at lower levels is to use a bola to immobilize them, followed by a slingshot or bow with tranq arrows to knock them out.
13. What movement speed do you need to outrun a Raptor in Ark?
You need a movement speed of at least 114 to outrun a Raptor in Ark.
14. How many tranquilizer arrows does it take to knock out a T-Rex in Ark?
The amount varies, but expect to use around 30-35 tranquilizer arrows for a level 6 T-Rex.
15. Can you knockout an Alpha Raptor?
Yes, you can knock out an Alpha Raptor, but it requires significantly more effort than a standard Raptor.
Conclusion
While bolas are your best friend when it comes to taming regular Raptors in Ark: Survival Evolved, remember that they won’t work on Alpha Raptors. Adjust your strategy accordingly, and always be prepared for a challenge! Understanding the mechanics of the game and the creatures you’re facing is key to survival and success. For more information on game based learning, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org!