All ARK Survival Ascended Shields & How To Craft

While firearms are the primary reliance for most ARK Survival Ascended players, melee weapons remain essential for lighter combat scenarios. One frequently overlooked melee weapon is the shield, which manifests in various forms within the game, offering defense against a variety of attacks. 

High-end shields can even ensure survival against formidable foes like Rexxes and other high-level creatures. If you're eager to obtain one of these shields, read on as we detail the crafting process for each shield and their strengths in ARK Survival Ascended.

ARK Survival Ascended Shields: All Shields & How To Craft All

As of the current version of ARK Survival Ascended, players have access to three distinct shields: the Wooden Shield, Metal Shield, and Riot Shield (there was a TEK Shield, but it has yet to be reintroduced into the game). Each shield serves a unique purpose with varying levels of utility and strength. Let's delve into the details of each shield, including crafting requirements and their respective characteristics.

Wooden Shield

Crafting Materials:

• 40 × Wood or Fungal Wood
• 15 × Fiber
• 12 × Hide
• Crafted in Inventory

The Wooden Shield is a basic, low-level item designed to block damage from the front. It requires activation to deflect incoming damage and can be equipped simultaneously with tools like Pickaxes, Axes, and Swords, providing safety during gathering or combat. However, weapon usage is restricted while the shield is raised. It cannot be used in water, and equipping it prevents torch dropping.

Metal Shield

Crafting Materials:

• 80 × Metal Ingot or Scrap Metal Ingot
• 20 × Cementing Paste or Achatina Paste
• 15 × Hide
• Crafted in Refining Forge

The Metal Shield, suitable for mid-game, offers increased durability and protection. It is effective for both defense and offense, allowing players to use it with weapons like Swords against formidable foes, including Rexes. Notably, the shield does not take damage from explosives, but the player still does. It can also be used with pickaxes and axes for secure gathering.

Riot Shield

Crafting Materials:

• 120 × Polymer, Organic Polymer, or Corrupted Nodule
• 200 × Crystal or Primal Crystal
• 120 × Silica Pearls or Silicate
• 40 × Metal Ingot or Scrap Metal Ingot
• Crafted in Refining Forge

The Riot Shield provides higher base durability than both the metal and wooden shields. It offers impressive visibility with large crystal plates. However, it comes with a higher crafting and repair cost, making it a bit of a trade-off. Ultimately, the Riot Shield may be less appealing for players with difficulties obtaining the required resources.

In summary, these shields in ARK Survival Ascended cater to different playstyles and situations. Consider your priorities, resource availability, and playstyle when choosing the right shield for your survivor's needs. Shields can significantly enhance melee confrontations and provide a crucial edge in various in-game situations.