Tameable Broodmothers
For veteran survivors of ARK: Survival Ascended, the Broodmother has always been a terrifying wall of chitin and venom — a boss to be feared, not befriended. That all changes with the Tameable Broodmothers mod, a daring add-on that flips the script. Instead of fighting the giant spider, you can now summon her as a loyal, rideable companion. This is not a simple reskin; it is a fundamental gameplay shift that turns a raid boss into your personal apex predator.
What Exactly Does This Mod Do?
At its core, the mod introduces a new variant of the Broodmother, specifically designed to be tamed and controlled by the player. However, there is a catch that sets this mod apart from standard creature additions: you cannot find this creature wandering the map. The Tameable Broodmothers mod requires the use of admin cheat commands to spawn the creature into your world. This design choice ensures that only players who intentionally want this power can access it, preserving the base game's challenge for everyone else.
Spawning Your New Ally
To get started, you will need to open your console. For a wild version, use the command cheat command Wild: Summon SpiderL_Character_Tameable_BP_C. If you want a higher-level creature ready for taming, use Tamed: GMSummon "SpiderL_Character_Tameable_BP_C" 150. The number at the end (150) sets the level, giving you control over the difficulty of the taming process. Once spawned, the creature behaves like any other wild dino — you will need to knock it out and feed it to secure your bond.
Gameplay Balance and Expectations
It is crucial to understand that this mod is not designed for a balanced playthrough. The original mod description explicitly warns: "This mod may unbalance the game. Please understand that before installing this mod." This is a power-fantasy mod. A tamed Broodmother has immense health, devastating area-of-effect attacks, and can trivialize most PvE content, including other bosses. If you are looking for a hardcore survival experience, this might ruin the fun. However, if you want to feel like an unstoppable force, it is perfect.
Furthermore, the mod is currently in an Alpha state. The developer states it is under development, and bugs may exist. While they are actively trying to fix issues, you should expect occasional glitches or unintended behaviors. This is part of the charm of early-access mods, but it is something to keep in mind before you rely on this creature for your base defense.
Compatibility and Installation
Regarding supported ARK: Survival Ascended versions, this mod is built for the current live build of the game. Because it is an Alpha, it may break after major game updates. You should always check the mod page for the latest patch notes to ensure compatibility with your specific server version. The mod is lightweight and does not require additional dependencies, making it easy to add to your existing mod list.
When you download Tameable Broodmothers, the installation process is straightforward. You can manually place the mod files into your ShooterGame/Content/Mods folder, or you can use a mod manager. For those using a launcher, the foxygame.net launcher offers a streamlined experience, allowing you to browse the add-on catalog and install Tameable Broodmothers for ARK: Survival Ascended with a single click, bypassing the usual file-folder hassle.
How to Install the Mod Correctly
If you are wondering how to install this mod manually, follow these steps. First, ensure your game is completely closed. Second, navigate to your ARK: Survival Ascended installation directory. Third, locate the Mods folder and create a new subfolder named with the mod's ID (usually provided on the download page). Fourth, extract the downloaded files into that new folder. Finally, launch the game and enable the mod in the "Host/Local" menu before loading your save. For server admins, you must add the mod ID to the server's GameUserSettings.ini file under the [ServerSettings] section.
Remember, because the creature is spawned via command, you must have admin privileges on your server or be in single-player mode with cheats enabled. This is not a mod you can use on official servers. It is strictly for private servers or solo play. The foxygame.net launcher also handles version compatibility checks, ensuring that your copy of the mod matches the server build, which is a lifesaver for community server owners who manage multiple mods.
Final Verdict
The Tameable Broodmothers mod is a chaotic, unbalanced, and incredibly fun addition to ARK: Survival Ascended. It is not for everyone, and the Alpha status means you should back up your saves. But for those who have conquered everything the Island has to offer and want a new way to dominate, this is a unique experience. The thrill of seeing a massive spider follow your commands is unmatched. Just remember to use the cheat commands, keep your expectations in check regarding balance, and enjoy the absolute power you now wield. Whether you are building a spider army or just want a terrifying guard dog, this mod delivers on its promise.