What are the best ways to gather hexagons in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Hexagons are a unique currency in ARK: Survival Evolved, primarily used in the Genesis Part 1 and Genesis Part 2 DLCs. They are essential for purchasing high-tier items, blueprints, and resources from the HLNA shop. Gathering hexagons efficiently requires understanding the mechanics of missions, exploration, and resource management. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to gather hexagons effectively.

Hexagons are earned by completing missions, which are scattered across the Genesis maps. These missions vary in difficulty and type, including races, hunts, and survival challenges. Each mission has a difficulty level, and higher difficulties reward more hexagons. Missions can be completed solo or with a tribe, but some are easier with a group due to their complexity or enemy strength.

To start gathering hexagons, you need to locate mission terminals. These are found in specific biomes and are marked on your map. Approach the terminal and interact with it to view available missions. Choose a mission that suits your current gear and tames. Early-game players should focus on easier missions like the "Hunt" or "Race" types, as they require less preparation and can be completed with basic tools and tames.

Preparation is key to successfully completing missions. For combat missions, ensure you have strong tames like Rexes, Spinos, or Raptors, depending on the mission difficulty. For races, fast tames like the Gallimimus or the Shadowmane are ideal. Always bring healing items, food, and water to sustain yourself during the mission. Advanced players should consider using high-level tames with good saddles and mutations to maximize efficiency.

When starting a mission, follow the on-screen instructions carefully. For example, in a hunt mission, youÔÇÖll need to track and kill specific creatures within a time limit. Use your tames to deal damage while avoiding enemy attacks. In races, follow the checkpoints and avoid obstacles to finish quickly. Completing missions faster or with higher scores often results in bonus hexagons.

One common mistake is underestimating mission difficulty. Always check the recommended level and prepare accordingly. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies, which can lead to failure. Always carry extra food, water, and healing items to avoid running out during a mission.

Advanced techniques include optimizing your tames for specific missions. For example, breeding high-level tames with mutations can give you an edge in combat missions. Using Tek armor or advanced weapons can also make missions easier. Additionally, coordinating with your tribe to tackle harder missions can yield more hexagons in less time.

Resource requirements vary depending on the mission. For combat missions, youÔÇÖll need strong tames, weapons, and armor. For races, fast tames and stamina-boosting items are essential. Always gather resources like metal, polymer, and electronics to craft better gear and tames. Preparing a base near mission terminals can save time and resources.

Tribe considerations are important for hexagon farming. Tribes can divide tasks, such as one player gathering resources while others focus on taming and mission preparation. Coordinating with your tribe to tackle high-difficulty missions can yield more hexagons and reduce the risk of failure. Solo players should focus on easier missions and gradually build up their gear and tames to tackle harder challenges.

Specific examples include the "Hunt: Carno" mission, where you need to kill a pack of Carnotaurus. Using a high-level Rex or Spino can make this mission easier. Another example is the "Race: Bog" mission, where you need to navigate a swampy area with checkpoints. Using a fast tame like the Shadowmane or Gallimimus can help you finish quickly and earn bonus hexagons.

In conclusion, gathering hexagons in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, strategy, and coordination. By understanding mission mechanics, preparing your tames and gear, and avoiding common mistakes, you can efficiently farm hexagons to purchase valuable items and resources. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, focusing on mission efficiency and resource management will help you thrive in the Genesis DLCs.