Magmasaur Breeding Locations and Expert Tips in Ark: Survival Evolved
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The Magmasaur, a formidable creature introduced with the Genesis: Part 1 DLC, requires specific conditions for successful breeding. While they can technically breed in various locations, optimal breeding spots center around areas mimicking their natural habitat: volcanic environments. The most reliable and originally intended breeding location is within the volcano on The Island map. Though updates have expanded viable options, the Island volcano remains a consistent choice. Newer updates even allow breeding on Ragnarok, though originally not viable.
Understanding Magmasaur Breeding Mechanics
Breeding Magmasaurs is a unique and challenging endeavor in Ark: Survival Evolved. Unlike most creatures that simply require being set to “mate,” Magmasaurs demand specific environmental conditions and player actions to trigger the egg-laying process. The key factor is heat. While lava isn’t strictly required (though historically implied and often preferable), a significant heat source is essential. This traditionally involved using Wyverns (specifically NOT Ember Wyverns) to create a sustained burst of fire near the mating pair.
The process is somewhat arcane, as the initial data suggests. One player needed to mount a wyvern and use the flamethrower until their stamina was depleted, then quickly switch to another wyvern and repeat the process until they got the egg. More recent data suggests that heat is the key, which can be produced by using the Wyvern’s fire breath in close proximity to the Magmasaurs or being in a very hot area. This mimics the intense geothermal activity of a volcanic environment.
Prime Breeding Locations: A Detailed Breakdown
The Island Volcano: The Classic Choice
The volcano on The Island is arguably the most reliable location, as it was the original intended spot and still works seamlessly after updates. Its interior provides naturally high temperatures, making it easier to reach the necessary heat levels for breeding. Set up a breeding pen near the lava flows but avoid direct contact, as prolonged exposure to lava is harmful.
Ragnarok Volcano: A Post-Update Option
With game updates, the Ragnarok volcano has become a viable alternative. Similar to the Island volcano, the intense heat inside creates a conducive environment for breeding. Place your Magmasaurs in a secure pen and utilize Wyvern fire or other heat sources to stimulate the mating process. Keep in mind that Magmasaurs are sensitive to environmental conditions, so any fluctuations can hinder their breeding.
Other Maps: Advanced Strategies
While the Island and Ragnarok volcanoes are the most straightforward options, it’s possible to breed Magmasaurs on other maps by carefully manipulating the environment. You can create artificial heat sources using multiple standing torches, dimetrodons (level melee only, it increases the incubation effect), or air conditioners. This method requires constant monitoring and adjustments to maintain the optimal temperature range.
Raising Baby Magmasaurs: A Crucial Stage
Raising baby Magmasaurs is just as demanding as breeding them. They exclusively eat Ambergris during their infant stage. Ambergris is found in the lunar biome, necessitating exploration and resource gathering in potentially dangerous areas.
The Maewing is an invaluable asset for raising Magmasaur babies. The Maewing can nurse the babies so they don’t need ambergris! A single Maewing can oversee multiple babies, provided you regularly fill its inventory with food.
Alternatively, sulfur can be fed to the babies now as well.
Environmental Considerations
Whether breeding or raising Magmasaurs, it’s essential to be mindful of environmental factors. Extreme cold can hinder their growth and breeding potential. Protect them from harsh weather conditions and ensure a stable and warm environment for optimal results.
Ultimately, understanding the intricacies of Magmasaur breeding and development will elevate your gameplay, turning a challenging task into a rewarding achievement. You can explore more gaming insights and studies at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Magmasaur Breeding
1. Do I have to breed Magmasaurs in lava?
No, lava is not strictly required, but high heat is essential. You can use alternative heat sources like Wyvern fire, multiple standing torches, dimetrodons, or air conditioners. Historically, the lava was the easiest way to produce the heat needed, but it is not necessarily required.
2. What do Magmasaur eggs look like?
Magmasaur nests are unique compared to other creatures. They are made of cooled lava and mud with pockets of lava between, unlike nests made of twigs, leaves, and other materials. Magmasaur nests also usually have more than one egg.
3. What do baby Magmasaurs eat?
Baby Magmasaurs only eat Ambergris, which can be mined from the lunar biome. The Maewing can also nurse the babies and provide them with food, so they don’t need Ambergris. Sulfure may also be fed to them after updates.
4. Can I breed Magmasaurs with a flamethrower?
While a direct flamethrower isn’t the breeding trigger itself, the heat produced by a flamethrower, particularly from Wyverns, can help stimulate the mating process by increasing the temperature around the Magmasaurs.
5. Can I use a Maewing to raise a Magmasaur?
Yes! Maewings can nurse Magmasaur babies, eliminating the need for Ambergris. This makes raising them significantly easier, allowing you to raise multiple babies simultaneously.
6. Can I breed Magmasaurs on The Island?
Absolutely! The Island volcano is a prime location for breeding Magmasaurs because it provides the necessary heat levels. Set up a breeding pen near the lava flows for the best results.
7. What is the maximum Magmasaur egg level?
On official and private servers, the maximum level is usually 150. This depends on specific settings in the GameUserSettings.ini file.
8. Can you breed Magmasaurs on Ragnarok?
Yes, after certain updates, the Ragnarok volcano has become a viable breeding location.
9. How do I keep Magmasaurs alive?
To keep Magmasaurs alive, especially if they are low on food, force-feed them stone. This fills their food meter more effectively than meat.
10. Are Magmasaurs good for smelting?
While Magmasaurs can smelt, their food drain compared to smelting speed is not efficient. A basic refining forge is faster and more resource-efficient.
11. Can I hatch a Magmasaur egg in an incubator?
Yes, you can hatch a Magmasaur egg in an incubator. However, it requires a lot of heat. Use standing torches, dimetrodons (level melee only, it increases the incubation effect), air conditioners, or a combination of all of the above.
12. What are Magmasaurs good for?
Magmasaurs are excellent for mortar/base destruction due to their AOE magma ball attack. They can damage all structures, including Tek, making them powerful in sieges.
13. Can a Maewing carry a Giga?
Maewings cannot carry baby Giganotosaurus, Managarmr, Bloodstalkers, or any water creatures, regardless of their growth stage.
14. Will a baby Magmasaur eat meat?
No, baby Magmasaurs will only eat Ambergris or be nursed by a Maewing.
15. Can you raise baby magmasaur with sulfur?
Yes, sulfur may be fed to the baby Magmasaurs!