ARK: Survival Evolved – The Ultimate Guide to Color IDs & Customization
Understanding the Codes that Define Hue
What are Color IDs?
The untamed world of ARK: Survival Evolved is an open-world survival game that has captivated players with its vast landscapes, diverse creatures, and the challenge of survival. Beyond the core gameplay of taming dinosaurs, building bases, and battling other players, lies a captivating element: the ability to customize nearly everything. One of the most exciting aspects of customization, the ability to make your mark on the ARK, is through the use of a powerful tool: ARK Color IDs. This article will be your comprehensive guide to understanding, utilizing, and mastering these codes to transform your ARK experience. We’ll dive deep into where to find these crucial identifiers, how to use them to paint the world to your liking, and how to create truly unique and eye-catching creations.
Customization is about more than just aesthetics. It’s a way to express your individuality, show off your hard work, and leave a lasting impression on the ARK. Whether you want a vibrant tribe base, a matching set of colored dinos, or a personalized touch on your equipment, mastering ARK Color IDs is the key to unlocking a whole new level of creativity in the game. This guide is designed to empower you, from novice survivors to seasoned veterans, with the knowledge you need to wield the power of color.
The Impact of Color Codes
These seemingly simple numerical codes are, in reality, the keys to the rainbow within ARK. They are numerical codes assigned to a specific set of hues available within the game. They aren’t just limited to a few choices; there are a multitude of different tones you can find and use. Each number represents a unique shade, allowing you to change the color of creatures, structures, and items.
Think of them as digital paintbrushes. You can use them to apply specific colors to different parts of a creature, like its body, saddle, or any of its other regions. You can also use these same identifiers on your bases to bring a custom, personal touch.
So, what exactly do these color identifiers apply to? The possibilities are surprisingly wide. Firstly, it’s essential to know that these colors can be applied to your tamed creatures. This is where the creativity really shines. You can change the color of everything from a humble Dodo to a massive Giganotosaurus. You can make a vibrant, rainbow-colored herd of Stegosauruses or create a fearsome, all-black Rex, ready to strike fear into the hearts of your enemies.
Secondly, these identifiers play a crucial role in structure modification. You can change the color of the walls, roofs, and all other construction elements within your bases. Create themed bases, blending in with the environment, or go for something bold and eye-catching.
While the direct impact on items is somewhat limited, these codes can still make a difference. Though not as prevalent, some items like torches might be affected, and with certain mods, even more item-based color customization is unlocked.
Beyond creative expression, there are pragmatic reasons to master the system. Color customization allows for better communication and coordination within a tribe. Additionally, understanding the codes is invaluable when breeding creatures. Breeding is the process of combining creatures with the desired traits. Creatures inherit color regions from their parents. Therefore, by understanding the codes and which colors you are targeting, you can create the perfect creatures with the exact color combinations you desire.
The Basics of the Color Palette
Understanding the basics is also a good idea. There is a broad palette of colors accessible, encompassing a vast range of hues. These colors, despite this impressive variety, are often grouped, which allows players to find certain shades easier. These groups help players develop a sense of the color spectrum. This understanding can lead to more effective color combinations and a better sense of how colors will look when applied to your creatures and structures. While there is a definite spectrum, it’s also worth noting that some color variations can happen, depending on the specific creature or structure.
Finding and Using the Code Sets
Locating Code Sets
Locating the right numerical sequences is the first step towards unlocking the full potential of ARK Color IDs. You won’t just stumble upon them; you’ll need to seek them out. Fortunately, numerous resources are available.
One of the most reliable sources is the ARK Wiki. This community-driven resource provides a comprehensive database of information related to the game, including a complete list of color identifiers. Use the wiki’s search function to find specific details.
Beyond the wiki, dedicated online communities and fan sites frequently compile their own charts, guides, and color palettes. These resources are often created by experienced players and offer helpful tips, color combinations, and even tools to preview how different colors look on creatures and structures.
In certain cases, the game itself may provide some in-game information about colors. However, it is highly reliant on the game’s settings.
Using Console Commands
To begin applying these codes, you’ll need to learn how to use the appropriate console commands. Keep in mind that using these commands generally requires access to the admin menu on a server, though some servers might have custom settings.
The primary command you’ll need to get started is `SetTargetDinoColor
- `SetTargetDinoColor`: This is the command itself, which tells the game what action to perform.
- `
`: This represents the specific part of the creature you want to change the color of. Creatures can have multiple color regions (e.g., body, saddle, etc.). The region index determines which area is affected. - `
`: This is where you insert the numerical code representing the desired color.
For instance, to change the color of the body of a selected creature to a bright red (assuming red corresponds to a certain identifier, which can be found in the online charts), you would use the command with the correct `
Using console commands on structures requires a similar approach. The specifics can vary depending on the structure and the admin interface, but the core principle of providing a region and identifier remains.
Coloring Regions and Strategic Design
Understanding Regions
Understanding how to use these codes is only the start. To truly master customization, you need to understand how creatures are divided up into different color areas. This will allow you to apply codes in a nuanced way.
Creatures in ARK typically have multiple color regions. These can include the body, saddle, head, tail, and other distinct markings. When you target a creature with a `SetTargetDinoColor` command, you need to specify which region you are targeting. This is done using the `
While the specific region indexes can vary between creatures, some common examples include the main body, a secondary area for patterns, and a third region for details. Each creature will have unique regions. You will need to consult online resources or do some trial and error to determine the indexes for your target.
For example, a typical Allosaurus might have a main body region, a dorsal fin region, and a tail region. A Direwolf might have a body region, a leg region, and a head region.
This detailed approach to color is what allows for amazing customization possibilities.
Designing Color Combinations
Strategic color design is essential for crafting amazing creations. Simply picking random colors may yield mixed results.
When planning a color scheme, start by deciding the overall theme. This could be anything from a naturalistic approach to a vibrant, fantasy-inspired style. Once you have a theme in mind, consider using color palettes to simplify the process. Many websites and tools offer pre-made color schemes that can guide your choices.
When you want to make color combinations that “work,” there are certain principles you can use. Complementary colors, which sit opposite each other on the color wheel (like blue and orange, red and green), can create a strong contrast that makes your creations pop. Another option is to use analogous colors, which are next to each other on the wheel (e.g., blues and greens). This leads to visually harmonious designs. Or, you could opt for monochromatic schemes, using different shades and tones of the same color. This will help create a simple, yet effective, aesthetic.
Breeding Techniques
Color and breeding can be connected. Creatures can inherit their colors from their parents, leading to a more detailed customization system.
When you’re looking to breed for desired colors, you should understand how the process works. Creatures will pass down their genes, including the color regions. This means you can breed two creatures with specific colors to create offspring that have the desired color combinations. It can take time, and it depends on the genes passed down. With persistence, this breeding system allows you to obtain your desired colors.
Advanced Techniques and Tips for Vibrant Creations
Coloring Tips
Creating amazing builds requires some advanced techniques.
Before you commit to an exact color, test it out. Some tools allow you to see the colors before they are applied. This helps you preview the final look. Experimenting with multiple colors is key. Try different combinations. Don’t be afraid to try out new things.
When using these codes on a server, certain considerations are important. If you’re an admin, you generally have the necessary permissions. If not, it will depend on server settings. Keep in mind that color customization can be limited on some servers. In rare cases, some servers might host color-themed events.
Beyond these tips, use community resources to improve your skills. Many online websites have tools and guides.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Command Error Fixes
Even the most experienced players encounter issues. Knowing how to troubleshoot issues can save you time and effort.
One common problem is a command error. Always double-check for common mistakes, such as typos, incorrect formatting, and wrong identifiers. These are easy fixes.
Another issue is when the color is not applied. Firstly, check whether you have admin privileges or appropriate settings. Make sure you’re targeting the intended creature or structure. If the color still doesn’t apply, it might be due to server limitations.
Sometimes, you will encounter problems where one color is replacing another. You can, in general, reapply commands to fix this.
Conclusion
You now have a comprehensive foundation to master ARK Color IDs. You’ve learned what these codes are, where to find them, and how to use them to customize your creatures and structures. Now, start experimenting! Unleash your creativity, design color schemes, and transform the world of ARK into your own personal masterpiece. With a little practice, you’ll be creating unique and eye-catching builds that reflect your personal style and make your mark on the ARK.
From the humble beginnings to building an eye-popping base, the freedom to customize will encourage you to dive in, experiment, and have fun.
