How to Fly in Caves in Ark: A Comprehensive Guide
Flying in caves in Ark: Survival Evolved can be a game-changer, offering significant advantages in exploration, resource gathering, and even combat. However, it’s not as simple as just hopping on your favorite flyer. Most of the time, flying within caves is restricted. So, how do you actually get airborne inside those dark and mysterious depths? The short answer is: by either using a Desmodus or by enabling specific server settings. Let’s explore this in detail, covering all you need to know to take to the cave skies.
The Two Ways to Fly in Caves
There are fundamentally two distinct methods for enabling cave flying in Ark:
- The Desmodus: This is the intended, vanilla method that works on all servers and single-player games without the need for server modifications. The Desmodus, also known as the Vampire Bat, is unique in that it is the only flyer that can naturally fly in most caves. It is a powerful creature with a versatile skill set that includes the ability to turn invisible and a unique radar.
- Server Configuration: This is an alternative for those running their own Ark server who want to allow all flyers in caves. It involves adding a specific launch parameter, which is commonly used on private servers or non-official multiplayer settings.
Understanding the Desmodus
The Desmodus is a creature that can be found in various locations depending on the specific Ark map you are playing on. Unlike other flyers, it can effortlessly navigate the tight corridors and cavernous spaces of caves, making it an invaluable tool for any cave explorer. Here’s what makes the Desmodus so special for cave traversal:
- Natural Cave Flight: It can fly in virtually any cave, except those on the Aberration map. This allows you to bypass obstacles and quickly reach resources and areas not easily accessible on foot.
- Invisibility: The Desmodus has the ability to turn invisible, making it ideal for navigating dangerous caves while avoiding encounters with aggressive creatures.
- Radar Ability: It can also emit a radar pulse to locate hidden enemies and resources. This ability makes exploring caves both efficient and safe.
- Blood Pack Feeding: When taming the Desmodus, note that the baby Desmodus primarily eats blood packs. This is crucial to successful taming and breeding.
Using Server Settings for All Flyers
For those running their own servers, you have the option to enable cave flying for all creatures, bypassing the Desmodus’s inherent exclusivity. This method involves modifying the server startup parameters. Here’s how to do it:
- Access Your Server Panel: Log in to your server control panel, whether it’s BisectHosting, or any other service you use.
- Stop the Server: Ensure your server is completely offline before making any changes.
- Locate the Startup or Command Line Field: Find the area in your server settings where you can enter custom command-line parameters. This is usually labeled as “Startup Parameters,” “Command Line,” or a similar term.
- Enter the Command: Add the following command to the field:
-ForceAllowCaveFlyers. This enables cave flying for all tamed creatures. - Save and Start the Server: Save your changes and restart the server. With the server up and running, you should now be able to fly with any of your tamed creatures in caves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flying in Caves
Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about cave flying in Ark, covering a wide range of topics to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding:
1. Can any creature fly in caves on vanilla Ark servers?
No, only the Desmodus can naturally fly in caves on official or vanilla Ark servers.
2. Does the Desmodus work in the Tek Cave?
Yes, the Desmodus can fly in the Tek Cave, providing a significant advantage when completing this challenging encounter.
3. Can I fly in caves on Ark Single Player?
Yes, you can fly in caves in single-player by either using a **Desmodus** or adding the `-ForceAllowCaveFlyers` command in your Steam launch options if you don't want to use a Desmodus.
4. Are there any caves the Desmodus cannot fly in?
The Desmodus cannot fly in caves on the Aberration map, which is designed without flyable areas.
5. What are the advantages of using the Desmodus in caves?
The advantages include easy navigation, invisibility, radar to locate threats, the ability to bypass traps, and efficient resource gathering.
6. What is the easiest flyer to tame in Ark if I am starting out?
The **Pteranodon** is considered one of the easiest flyers to tame for beginners because they are relatively docile until provoked.
7. How do you land a flying dinosaur in Ark effectively?
To land a flying dinosaur effectively, whistle **follow** and then use the landing command using your directional controls where you want it to land, which will likely depend on your platform's default controls
8. What’s the biggest flying creature in Ark?
The Quetzalcoatlus is the largest flying creature in Ark, a colossal pterosaur that is slow-moving but capable of carrying heavy items.
9. What are some of the best flyers in Ark?
The **Argentavis**, or Argy, is one of the most versatile flying mounts. The **Griffin** is a powerful and versatile flyer with diving abilities. The **Snow Owl** is another great flyer, offering powerful support options. The **Pteranodon** is fast and beginner-friendly, but limited in its combat capabilities.
10. Can you enable flying in creative mode?
Yes, in **Creative Mode**, you can fly without any mounts or commands, but this does not work in survival modes.
11. How do you enable cheat codes?
To enable cheat codes, open the command console via your platform’s defined input (typically “Tab” for PC), type in enablecheats, followed by the admin password if the server has one.
12. How can I change the settings to allow all flyers to fly in caves on my server?
By adding the `-ForceAllowCaveFlyers` command-line parameter to your server settings.
13. Can you fly in first-person in Ark?
Yes, you can fly in first-person. You can switch the camera view while flying.
14. What do baby Desmodus eat?
Baby Desmodus primarily consume **blood packs**, not meat.
15. What other Ark creatures use similar movement mechanics?
The **Maewing** is a creature with similar gliding/flying mechanics, offering a good alternative for low-level players who don't have a Desmodus or the option to use the `ForceAllowCaveFlyers` command.
Conclusion
Flying in caves in Ark can significantly enhance your experience, making exploration, resource gathering, and even combat more engaging. Whether you choose the unique Desmodus or enable the server setting for all flyers, this opens up a whole new dimension of gameplay. Be sure to understand the different methods, advantages, and restrictions before diving into the caves and taking to the skies. Now you can prepare to navigate the mysterious cave depths with confidence, whether in your own single-player world, a server you’re hosting, or on an existing server with the Desmodus! Happy exploring!