Ark: Survival Evolved is one of the most unforgiving survival games currently available. The world of Ark is cruel both online and offline, making it difficult for some new players to acclimate early on. Ark doesn't hold your hand; instead, it drops you into the world with nothing but a loincloth and your own fists.

Related: Ark Survival Evolved: Picturesque Spots To Build Your Base In The Island

You are given an extremely limited knowledge of tools, and can only create primitive housing, spears, and axes at the start. On top of this primitive technology, there is a wide list of stats that you must balance to stay alive, creating a truly unique challenge for survival fans. Thankfully, we have some helpful tips to get you started on the island.

Updated July 14, 2022 by Jacqueline Zalace: Ark: Survival Evolved can be quite harsh, so we've updated this guide with more information to help you survive.

Stats To Maintain

There is a list of stats you will need to maintain and upgrade in order to survive, explore, and eventually flourish on the Ark. Below, you can see every stat that you need to worry about.

Where To Build

The very first thing you should do after getting into a game session is to observe your surroundings. Note the animals wandering around the area, especially if there are carnivores.

You will want to start looking for a place to set up your first base. A great sign that you will be safe is if you are surrounded by low-level plant-eaters like Dodos and Parasaurs.

It's a great idea to build in an area where water can easily be accessed, with the best spot being on or closest to the southern beach.

It's still important to survey a short distance around your base as the aggressive Spino can spawn around low-level areas.

Next, we are going to take a quick look at some creatures that you will want to avoid at the start of the game, especially while building your base.

Creatures To Look Out For While Building

Here are some creatures that players need to avoid building their base around early on.

For the most part, building on the beach is a safe bet, especially from the most common threats in the southern region of the map. Spino's are the only real threat but are easy to spot thanks to their size and large fin.

Focus On Unlocking Engrams

Engrams are essential to survival, so you definitely want to focus on unlocking them. This can be done by leveling up and spending Engram Points. Below, you can see some important Engrams that you should unlock first.

• Campfire
• Storage Box
• Bow
• Narcotics
• Sleeping Bag
• Mortar and Pestle
• Stone Hatchet
• Clothing

For more information, you can check out our guide on the best Engrams to unlock for a balanced start.

Creating A Safe Base

Once you have placed your first base, be sure to put down a simple bed as a respawn point in case things go wrong. In your base, you can store your items, as well as craft stuff to help you survive.

Your best defense in the early hours of the game is being vigilant and actively sprinting away from possible danger. We reccomend fortifying your base so you have a safe space to rest when danger lurks outside. Walls and raised platforms can help you avoid creatures that walk along the beach looking for a snack.

Crafting Weapons And Tools

While the spear you get at the beginning of the game is great for small threats like the Chompy, it won't work against major predators. Before trying to take on larger predators, try to craft ranged weaponry like the bow. This will allow you to take out creatures that are roaming in the distance.

You will also want to build every tool type. This will let you gather resources, so you can continue to craft items and add on to your base.

Taming Your First Creatures

In addition to living alongside dinosaurs, you will get the chance to tame them. These creatures can help you gather resources, as well as defend your base when you are under attack.

To tame a creature, you will first want to knock out your creature of choice. This is easier for passive creatures, but some creatures may fight back.

Once unconscious, you can place food in the creature's inventory to tame it. While doing this, be sure to use the creature's preferred food, and fill the taming meter.

With several creatures that breed, you will also have a steady supply of meat to replenish your hunger. For more information, be sure to check out our guide on taming creatures.

Best Creatures To Tame

Not every creature is equal; some make for better tames than others, especially at the start of the game. Below, you can learn some of the best creatures to tame, as well as why.

Next: The Most Powerful Bosses in Ark, Ranked