ARK: Survival Evolved immerses players in a prehistoric world where resource gathering is crucial for survival. This guide provides comprehensive insights into the essential tools, key resource locations, efficient farming techniques, and rare valuable resources that will help you thrive on the island.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding the different types of gathering tools, from primitive to specialized, is essential for efficient resource collection.
- Knowing the key locations for resources, such as mountain regions, caves, and forests, can significantly boost your gathering efficiency.
- Efficient farming techniques, including crop plots, irrigation, and the use of fertilizers, are vital for sustainable resource management.
Essential Gathering Tools
Before you begin gathering resources, you’ll need to ensure that you’re suitably equipped for the task at hand. There are all sorts of tools (and creatures) that you can use to maximize your gathering efficiency, but the essential items are a pick and hatchet. These tools are not only crucial for resource gathering but also serve as impromptu weapons early in the game.
Primitive Tools
Your journey begins with the most basic tools. As a new survivor, you will already know the Engrams for crafting a Stone Pick and a Torch. Engrams are the crafting knowledge your character has learned by distributing experience to survival traits in the form of Engram Points by leveling up. After harvesting berries for food and finding fiber from bushes and foliage, you can find all the materials needed almost anywhere for these basic essentials.
With these basic tools, you can start properly harvesting larger amounts of resources and creating all the essential tools you need for survival. The stone pick is abysmal for harvesting metal or any rare resource; craft a metal pick after learning the refining forge, smithy, and the metal tool engrams. The same goes for the stone/metal hatchet.
Advanced Tools
Once you have the basics down, it’s time to upgrade. Metal tools are a significant improvement over their stone counterparts. Crafting a metal pick and hatchet will greatly increase your efficiency in gathering resources. To craft these, you will need to learn the refining forge and smithy engrams. These tools will allow you to gather more resources in less time, making your survival efforts much more manageable.
Specialized Tools
For more specific tasks, specialized tools come into play. Here are some examples:
- Pliers: Useful for repairing tools and armor crafted in a Smithy, especially in the Aberration expansion.
- Bolas: Can save your life or help you tame creatures by immobilizing them.
- Wooden Club: Ideal for harvesting Organic Polymer from Kairuku.
Remember, the right tool for the job can make all the difference. For example, a pick will harvest more flint and metal from rocks, while a hatchet will yield more stone. Similarly, a pick will gather more thatch from trees, whereas a hatchet will collect more wood.
By understanding and utilizing these tools effectively, you can ensure that your resource gathering is as efficient as possible, setting a strong foundation for your survival on the ARK.
Key Resource Locations
Knowing where to find resources in Ark Survival Evolved is crucial for your survival and progression. Different biomes and areas offer unique resources, and understanding these locations can give you a significant advantage. Here’s a breakdown of key resource locations you should be familiar with.
Efficient Farming Techniques
Farming in Ark: Survival Evolved is a crucial aspect of ensuring a steady supply of food and resources. By mastering efficient farming techniques, you can maximize your yield and sustain your tribe effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the essential farming methods you need to know.
Crop Plots and Irrigation
To start farming, you need to set up crop plots. There are three types: Small, Medium, and Large. Each type can hold different kinds of crops. Irrigation is key to keeping your crops hydrated. Use water reservoirs, pipes, and taps to ensure a constant water supply. Place your crop plots near a water source or set up an irrigation system to automate the process.
Fertilizers and Growth Boosters
Fertilizers are essential for healthy crop growth. You can create fertilizer by combining thatch and feces in a compost bin or by using a dung beetle. Some fertilizers are more effective than others, so experiment to find the best mix for your crops. Additionally, consider using growth boosters like Plant Species X, which can also serve as a defensive measure for your base.
Harvesting and Storage
Once your crops are ready, it’s time to harvest. Use a sickle for fiber and a metal hatchet for wood to maximize your yield. Proper storage is crucial to prevent spoilage. Use preserving bins or refrigerators to keep your harvested crops fresh for longer periods. Also, consider setting up a dedicated storage area to organize your resources efficiently.
Efficient farming not only sustains your tribe but also provides valuable resources for crafting and trading. Master these techniques to thrive in the harsh world of Ark.
By implementing these farming techniques, you can ensure a steady supply of resources and maintain a well-fed and prosperous tribe.
Rare and Valuable Resources
Metal and Obsidian
Metal and Obsidian are some of the most sought-after resources in ARK: Survival Evolved. Metal is primarily found in rocks located in mountainous regions and caves. To efficiently gather metal, use a metal pick or an Ankylosaurus. Obsidian, on the other hand, is found in smaller quantities but is equally important. It is typically located near volcanic areas and in caves. Using a metal pick or a Doedicurus will yield the best results.
Crystal and Gems
Crystals are essential for crafting advanced items and can be found in caves and on mountain tops. Use a metal pick to gather them efficiently. Gems, which come in three varieties (blue, green, and red), are found in the Aberration map and are used for crafting unique items. Each type of gem is located in different biomes, so exploration is key.
Element and Black Pearls
Element is a rare resource used for crafting Tek items. It can be obtained by defeating bosses or harvesting from Element Nodes in the Extinction map. Black Pearls are another rare resource, primarily used for crafting advanced technology. They can be found in the depths of the ocean, in underwater caves, and sometimes in the inventory of certain creatures like the Tusoteuthis.
When it comes to your inventory, there are some things that are always prudent to be kept, no matter what you’re doing. You never know when a potential tame, dangerous dino, rare resource, etc. may come across your path.
Here’s a quick reference table for gathering tools:
| Resource | Best Tool/Creature |
|---|---|
| Metal | Metal Pick, Ankylosaurus |
| Obsidian | Metal Pick, Doedicurus |
| Crystal | Metal Pick |
| Gems | Metal Pick |
| Element | Defeat Bosses, Harvest Nodes |
| Black Pearls | Tusoteuthis, Underwater Caves |
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the resources in Ark: Survival Evolved is essential for thriving in its challenging and dynamic world. From basic necessities like food and water to advanced materials required for crafting and building, understanding where and how to gather these resources can significantly impact your survival and progression. Utilize this guide to enhance your gameplay experience, ensuring you are well-prepared to face the myriad challenges that the ARK presents. Remember, resourcefulness and adaptability are your greatest allies in this primeval adventure. Good luck, survivor!
