The Andrewsarchus is one of the most versatile and formidable creatures introduced in the Fjordur map of ARK: Survival Evolved. Known for its incredible speed, high mobility, and armored minigun saddle, this prehistoric mammal is a valuable asset for any survivor looking to dominate combat and transport. Mastering the taming process and equipping the proper saddle can significantly elevate your gameplay tactics.
Where to Locate the Andrewsarchus
Finding an Andrewsarchus requires exploring the open, grassy meadows and plains of the Fjordur realm, particularly in the Vardiland region. They tend to roam in small groups or solitary paths through open fields and temperate zones. Keeping a safe distance while scouting is essential because these aggressive wild beasts will attack players on sight.
Before attempting to tame one, clear the immediate area of dangerous predators like Carnotaurus or raptors. An unexpected encounter during the taming minigame can ruin your taming effectiveness or lead to a swift death. Utilizing a high vantage point or a flying mount allows you to survey the area safely before approaching.
Preparation and Taming Strategy
Taming an Andrewsarchus involves a non-violent, passive taming method that centers around using Giant Bee Honey as bait. Fill your hotbar with honey and approach the creature cautiously while using ghillie armor to prevent drawing aggression. Throw a piece of honey near the creature and wait for it to start eating before stealthily running up to ride it.
Once mounted, a mini-game begins where direction arrows appear on your screen indicating which way to steer. You must press and hold the corresponding movement keys while keeping an eye on the rage meter. Dismount immediately before the rage bar fills to avoid being thrown off and brutally attacked by the creature.
Crafting and Equipping the Andrewsarchus Saddle
To fully unlock the potential of your newly tamed beast, you need to learn and craft its unique saddle engram available at level 74. The saddle requires standard crafting materials including hide, fiber, metal ingots, and polymer to assemble. Crafting can be completed inside a Smithy or directly on an Advanced Workstation depending on your setup.
The Andrewsarchus saddle is unique because it acts as an enclosed turret cockpits that fully protects the rider from incoming damage and dismount effects. It also features a fully functional minigun that consumes Advanced Rifle Ammo to devastate opposing forces. Learning how to properly manage heat and ammunition during combat makes this mount a mobile powerhouse during mid-to-late game raids.
Combat Applications and Survival Value
In combat scenarios, the combination of high base movement speed and bullet-proof protection makes the Andrewsarchus an ideal scout vehicle. The rider remains completely immune to status effects like poison or direct dismount attacks from creatures like Thylacoleo. This defensive capability provides peace of mind when navigating high-risk territories or participating in player-versus-player battles.
Additionally, the creature features a powerful charge attack that can shatter obstacles and breach enemy positions with ease. Its impressive weight capacity also allows survivors to transport valuable resources safely across long distances without sacrificing speed. Investing time into breeding and training these beasts yields exceptional strategic advantages for any surviving tribe.