What is Passive Taming in Ark: Survival Evolved? A Comprehensive 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.
In the vast and unforgiving world of Ark: Survival Evolved, taming creatures is essential for survival and progress. While the most common method involves knocking a creature unconscious, a fascinating alternative exists: passive taming. But what exactly is passive taming, and how does it differ from traditional methods?
Essentially, passive taming is a method of befriending creatures without resorting to violence. Instead of incapacitating them, you approach them carefully and offer their preferred food. This approach requires a stealthy strategy and careful timing. It’s not about brute force; it’s about earning the creature’s trust, one feeding at a time. Instead of applying tranquilizers to knock out the dinosaur, the player must slowly feed it its preferred food while not being detected or attacked. This approach can be more challenging, but also more rewarding in terms of the connection you build with your new companion.
The core principle of passive taming revolves around feeding a creature its preferred food while avoiding any aggressive actions. Each passive tame has a specific food they favor, and using this food will lead to a faster and more effective taming process. While there are many different foods that can help in passive taming, some require a specific type of food that is unique to them. Unlike creatures tamed with force, the creature will never lose its wild nature, making it still a bit more difficult to control.
The primary allure of passive taming is that it bypasses the need for knockout methods and resources like tranquilizer arrows or darts. It’s a more nuanced way to expand your menagerie. It also offers a unique way to interact with the creature that you wish to tame, which can be more rewarding than just knocking it out.
Understanding the Nuances of Passive Taming
Passive taming is more than just handing out treats. It requires a thoughtful approach:
- Stealth is Key: Most passive tames are easily spooked. Moving too quickly or getting too close without the creature being ready will often cause them to run away or even attack. Crouch movement and strategic positioning are important.
- Preferred Food Matters: Feeding the creature its favored food will drastically increase taming speed and effectiveness. For some creatures this could be basic berries while others may be unique items or resources.
- Timing: Every time you approach a passive tame to give it food, there is a chance they won’t accept it. Some creatures will require you to give food to them multiple times before the taming process actually starts.
- Patience is Essential: Passive taming often takes longer than knockout methods. Be prepared to invest time and dedication.
- Avoiding Aggression: Even if you are accidentally attacked, you should not strike back at the creature. If you attack, the taming progress will reset.
Common Misconceptions about Passive Taming
It’s crucial to dispel some common myths about passive taming:
- Not All Herbivores are Passive Tames: While many passive tames are herbivores, not all herbivores can be passively tamed. For example, the Therizinosaurus, despite being a herbivore, cannot be passively tamed due to its aggressive nature.
- Passive Does Not Mean Weak: Creatures tamed passively can be just as powerful and useful as those tamed using knockout methods.
- Not Every Creature Can be Passively Tamed: Many creatures in Ark cannot be passively tamed, so it is important to do some research before you approach any dinosaur to attempt this process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Passive Taming
Here are some common questions regarding passive taming in Ark: Survival Evolved to provide you with a deeper understanding of this unique gameplay aspect:
1. What creatures in Ark are passive tames?
Many creatures in Ark are passively tamed including the Mantis, Maewing, Crystal Wyverns, Shadowmanes, and Tropeognathus, amongst others. However, the list of passive tames is not static, and new creatures may be added or reclassified with game updates.
2. What food do I need for passive taming?
The preferred food varies greatly depending on the creature. Kibble is often the best option for taming effectiveness, but other foods include specific berries, meat, or unique items. It is essential to do your research on the specific creature you are trying to tame, especially if they have unique food requirements.
3. How do I increase the speed of passive taming?
Using the creature’s preferred food or kibble significantly speeds up the process. Avoid using other foods, as they can greatly decrease taming efficiency.
4. What does “taming effectiveness” mean in Ark?
Taming effectiveness refers to the percentage of stats the creature retains when tamed. Using the preferred food of the tame and minimizing damage to the creature during the taming process will result in a higher percentage and a better overall tamed creature.
5. Can passive tames be trapped?
Yes! Many players use traps to make passive taming easier. These traps usually involve a pillar and ceilings to create a small enclosure, but the specifics will vary depending on the creature that you wish to tame.
6. How do I approach passive tames safely?
Use stealth by crouching, moving slowly, and approaching from a safe distance. Watch the creature’s behavior and make sure it’s not aware of you before you start the process.
7. Can I use weapons while passive taming?
It’s best to avoid using weapons or any offensive actions. Any aggression will reset the tame progress or cause the creature to become hostile and attack.
8. What is the difference between passive and neutral creatures in Ark?
Passive creatures will never attack unless provoked by another wild creature, while neutral creatures will attack if they or a member of their tribe is attacked.
9. Are there any passive tames that are aggressive?
Yes! Some creatures, like the Tropeognathus, are aggressive once they have started the taming process. You must be aware of the dangers of the creature you are attempting to tame before starting the process.
10. Can I accidentally aggro a passive tame?
Yes. Moving too quickly, getting too close without the creature being ready, or having other creatures around you that attack the passive tame will result in the taming process being reset.
11. Is passive taming the fastest method?
No, it is not always the fastest method, but it is the preferred method for many due to it being more peaceful. Knockout tames often allow for much faster taming speeds, but may come at the cost of a lower taming effectiveness percentage.
12. Can I be attacked while passive taming?
Yes. Wild creatures can still attack you during a passive tame. It is important to stay aware of your surroundings while in the process of taming a new creature.
13. What is a “Bola” in relation to passive taming?
The Bola is an item used to immobilize creatures. It can be useful to use in combination with passive taming, as you are often not able to start the passive taming process if the creature is moving. For the Tropeognathus, you get one feeding opportunity for every Bola used.
14. How does taming speed influence passive taming?
A higher taming speed, often achieved through server settings, will reduce the overall time required to passively tame a creature.
15. Is it possible to passive tame a Wyvern?
Yes, Crystal Wyverns can be passively tamed by feeding them crystal, making it a unique and less combative method for acquiring these powerful flyers. It involves finding a Crystal Wyvern and then interacting with it on its back to feed it crystal.
Conclusion
Passive taming in Ark: Survival Evolved offers a compelling alternative to traditional knockout methods. It’s about patience, strategy, and understanding the specific needs of each creature you wish to befriend. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a new survivor, mastering passive taming adds a rewarding dimension to your Ark journey. By understanding the nuances of this method and heeding the tips in this guide, you can expand your collection of tamed creatures in a more engaging and meaningful way. So, take a deep breath, equip the right food, and prepare to earn the trust of your next passive tame.