Do Bolas Work on Rex in Ark: Survival Evolved?
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The short and direct answer is: no, bolas do not work on a Rex in Ark: Survival Evolved. While the bola is an incredibly useful tool for immobilizing many smaller creatures in the game, the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex, often simply referred to as a Rex, is far too large and powerful to be affected by a simple bola. Attempting to use a bola on a Rex will prove to be completely ineffective, leaving you vulnerable to its devastating attacks. Knowing this fundamental detail can be the difference between a successful hunt and a very quick trip back to your respawn point.
Understanding Bola Mechanics in Ark
Before we delve into specifics, let’s quickly understand how bolas work in Ark. A bola is a primitive ranged weapon used to immobilize creatures. When successfully thrown, it wraps a target in a net, temporarily preventing them from moving. This immobilization period allows players to either attack the creature, escape, or begin the taming process. However, the effectiveness of a bola is highly dependent on the size and type of creature being targeted. Bolas are generally effective against smaller to medium-sized dinosaurs, but they completely fail against larger, more powerful creatures like the Rex.
Why Bolas Fail Against Rexes
The primary reason a bola doesn’t work on a Rex is simply its size and strength. The bola is designed to restrain smaller creatures, not colossal predators. A Rex is much too massive for the net to effectively hold or restrict its movement. The sheer power of the Rex allows it to break free of any bola, rendering it utterly useless against these apex predators. Attempting to use one is a waste of resources and can be actively dangerous for players.
Strategies for Dealing With a Rex
Since a bola is not an option, players must resort to other strategies when encountering a Rex. These generally fall into two categories: taming or escaping.
Taming a Rex
- Trapping: The most effective method to tame a Rex is to construct a trap. A common strategy involves a 2×2 stone foundation structure with door frames and ramps to lure the Rex in. Once the Rex is trapped, you can safely tranquilize it.
- Tranquilizing: Once trapped, use tranq darts or arrows to knock out the Rex. A high-level Rex will require a significant number of these, so be prepared.
- Feeding: After knocking the Rex out, feed it raw prime meat for faster taming or regular raw meat. Keep the Rex unconscious with narcotics or narcoberries until the taming process is complete.
Escaping a Rex
- Speed and Agility: If you are unable to fight or tame a Rex, the best strategy is to escape. Use a fast mount like a Raptor or a Pteranodon to outrun it.
- Terrain: Utilize the terrain to your advantage. Use steep cliffs or densely forested areas to break the Rex’s line of sight and escape.
- Diving: If you are near water, you can dive in, as most land-based dinos are generally poor swimmers and may not follow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about bolas and related strategies when dealing with different creatures in Ark: Survival Evolved:
Q1: What creatures are affected by bolas?
A1: Bolas are effective against many small to medium-sized creatures, including:
- Raptors
- Sabertooths
- Dire Wolves
- Argentavis
- Ankylosaurus
- Allosaurus
- Acrocanthosaurus (Sometimes)
- And many more smaller creatures.
Q2: Can you use a chain bola on a Rex?
A2: No, chain bolas are also ineffective against Rexes. While they are a more advanced version of the standard bola, they still cannot restrain a creature of the Rex’s size and power.
Q3: Can a bola trap an alpha raptor?
A3: No, alpha raptors are not immobilized by bolas. They are a different category of creature, often larger and more powerful than regular raptors, so the bola won’t work on them.
Q4: How many tranq arrows does it take to knock out a level 150 Rex?
A4: A level 150 Rex typically requires around 70 tranq darts or more, depending on the quality of your weapon and the Rex’s stats. Using Dododex is advisable to get the most accurate estimates.
Q5: What size trap is best for a Rex?
A5: A 2×2 square foundation trap using stone door frames and ramps is considered the safest and most effective trap for a Rex.
Q6: Can a bola stop a regular Raptor?
A6: Yes, a bola is effective against regular Raptors, making them easy to immobilize and tranquilize for taming.
Q7: Do bolas work on Carnos?
A7: No, bolas do not work on Carnos. Chain bolas also do not work on them.
Q8: Can a bola stop a Triceratops?
A8: No, bolas do not work on Triceratops. Attempting to use a bola on a Triceratops will cause it to become hostile and attack.
Q9: What’s the strongest type of Rex in Ark?
A9: Tek Rexes are considered the strongest due to their higher max level (180 vs 150 for regular Rexes) and better stats.
Q10: Can you use a bola on a Griffin?
A10: Yes, Griffins can be affected by bolas but only certain types, such as a metal bola. However, trapping them is typically a more reliable taming method.
Q11: Can a large bear trap stop a Rex?
A11: Yes, a large bear trap can stop a Rex, but they are only temporary and can be broken by sustained force. Using a trap is a more effective long-term solution.
Q12: What dino is best for gathering fiber?
A12: A Gigantopithecus is the best dino for gathering fiber in Ark.
Q13: How many tranq arrows does it take to knock out a low level Rex?
A13: Even a low-level Rex will require at least 30-35 tranq arrows, possibly more. Remember that tranq arrows take time to inflict their effects.
Q14: How many tranqs does it take for a Giga?
A14: A Giga requires an extensive number of tranq darts due to its high torpor resistance, generally ranging from 80 to 150 darts.
Q15: Can a Rex beat an Alpha Rex?
A15: Yes, a high-level tamed Rex can defeat an Alpha Rex, especially with good health and melee damage stats.
Conclusion
In summary, while the bola is a vital tool for managing smaller creatures in Ark: Survival Evolved, it is completely useless against a Rex. Players need to employ strategies like trapping and tranquilizing to tame a Rex, or use speed and agility to escape. Always be aware of the limitations of your tools and adjust your tactics accordingly for successful gameplay.