The Essential Guide to the ARK Survival Shotgun: Mastering Close-Quarters Combat
In the unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved, every weapon has its place, but few are as versatile and indispensable as the shotgun. Whether you’re fending off a swarm of raptors or defending your base from intruders, the shotgun is a trusted ally that delivers unmatched stopping power at close range. This guide dives into the ark survival shotgun, exploring its role, crafting, and tactical use in the game.
The Role of the Shotgun in ARK: Survival Evolved
The shotgun is a cornerstone of any survivor’s arsenal, particularly in the early to mid-game stages. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to deal massive damage in a short radius, making it ideal for close-quarters combat. Unlike ranged weapons like the bow or crossbow, the shotgun excels when enemies are within arm’s reach, providing a last line of defense against aggressive predators.
Key Strengths of the Shotgun:
High Damage Output: Capable of taking down small to medium-sized creatures with a single shot.
Versatility: Effective against both wild animals and hostile players.
Ease of Use: Simple to craft and maintain, with ammo that’s relatively easy to produce.
Crafting the Shotgun
Acquiring the shotgun is a milestone for any new player. To craft it, you’ll need the following resources:
200x Metal Ingots
20x Crystal
10x Black Pearl
The shotgun requires a Fabricator to craft, which means you’ll need to reach at least level 51 before you can unlock the blueprint. Once crafted, the shotgun can be further upgraded using resources like Metal Ingots and Crystal to improve its durability and firepower.
Tactical Tips for Using the Shotgun
Know Your Range:
The shotgun’s power diminishes significantly beyond close range. Use it to devastating effect in tight spaces or when enemies are closing in. For longer engagements, pair it with a bow or rifle for a balanced approach.
Ammo Management:
Shotgun ammo can be crafted using Gunpowder, which is made from Sulfur or Narcotics. Always stock up on ammo before heading into dangerous areas, as running out mid-fight can be deadly.
Pair with the Right Tools:
The shotgun shines when paired with a tamed creature like a Doedicurus or Ankylosaurus, which can tank damage while you pick off enemies from a safe distance.
Defensive Strategies:
Use the shotgun to defend your base from raiders or wild predators. Its high damage output makes it perfect for clearing clusters of enemies quickly.
The Shotgun vs. Other Weapons
While the shotgun is a powerful tool, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s how it stacks up against other popular weapons:
Shotgun vs. Bow:
The bow excels at long-range engagements, but the shotgun dominates in close combat. For early-game PvP, the shotgun is often the better choice.
Shotgun vs. Fabricator Pistol:
The Fabricator Pistol is another early-game weapon, but it lacks the shotgun’s raw power. The shotgun is far superior for dealing with tough creatures like Carnotaurus.
Shotgun vs. Rocket Launcher:
While the rocket launcher is more destructive, it’s also harder to craft and less practical for everyday use. The shotgun is a more versatile and accessible option.
Advanced Tactics and Upgrades
For seasoned players, the shotgun can be further enhanced with mods or upgrades. These include:
Increased Durability: Extend the shotgun’s lifespan with metal ingots.
Improved Damage: Boost its firepower using crystal.
Custom Skins: Personalize your shotgun with skins to stand out.
Additionally, pairing the shotgun with teammates can create devastating synergies. For example, one player can draw aggro with a tamed beast while others provide cover fire.
Case Study: Surviving a Raptor Pack
Imagine you’re out gathering resources when a pack of raptors circles in. With a shotgun in hand, your best bet is to stand your ground and fire at the closest raptor. The shotgun’s high damage will drop the first raptor instantly, giving you time to reload and take down the rest. If you’re mounted on a tamed dinosaur, use the shotgun to clear threats while your mount absorbs damage.
In ARK: Survival Evolved, the shotgun is more than just a weapon—it’s a lifeline