The Unicorn is one of the most elusive and sought-after creatures in the world of ARK: Survival Evolved. Finding one of these majestic creatures requires patience and a good understanding of how spawn mechanics work across different maps. Survivors looking to add this unique variant to their collection must prepare proper supplies before embarking on a search.
Understanding Unicorn Spawn Rates and Limits
In standard settings, only one wild Unicorn can exist on an active map at any given time. Once a wild Unicorn is tamed or killed, the server clears the path for a new wild one to spawn in designated regions. This strict limit makes encountering a wild specimen exceptionally rare compared to standard Equus.
Unicorns share spawn locations with regular Equus and typically frequent open fields, plains, and grassland biomes. Popular areas to search include the Highlands on Ragnarok, open beaches, and grassy fields across various maps. Clearing out existing wildlife in these spawn zones can help trigger new spawns over time.
Essential Items for Passive Taming
Taming a Unicorn follows the same passive mounting process as a standard Equus, but requires specific food for optimal efficiency. Rockarrots serve as the best accessible taming food on standard versions, providing quick progress. Players on mobile platforms should note that Griffin Kibble is often required to tame them effectively.
It is highly recommended to wear a full set of Ghillie Armor to minimize your visibility while approaching. Equipping an Argentavis or Wyvern allows players to safely pick up the creature and carry it to a controlled taming pen. Using a secure pen protects both the player and the creature from hostile predators during the process.
Step by Step Strategy for Taming a Unicorn
To begin the taming process, place your chosen taming food in the last slot of your action bar. Carefully approach the Unicorn from behind without startling it, then interact to feed it the initial item. Immediately mount the creature as soon as the prompt appears to start the riding phase.
While mounted, the Unicorn will buck continuously across the landscape to dislodge you. Watch the bottom right corner of your screen and press the action key every time the prompt appears. Missing a prompt or getting thrown off will significantly reduce taming progress and effectiveness.
Utility and Unique Features of the Unicorn
Once successfully tamed, the Unicorn functions as an agile mount with impressive stamina and weight stats. It acts as a mobile mortar and pestle when equipped with an Equus saddle, making field crafting convenient. Additionally, jumping while mounted triggers a special rainbow visual effect unique to this mythical creature.
Although community rumors often suggest Unicorns increase mutation chances during breeding, developers have confirmed this is purely a myth. Nevertheless, owning a Unicorn remains a prestigious trophy for dedicated ARK players. Keeping tamed Unicorns inside cryopods or uploading them allows additional wild ones to spawn on your server.