What is the best way to gather rare resources like hexagons in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Hexagons are a unique and valuable resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, primarily used in the Genesis Part 1 and Genesis Part 2 DLCs. They function as a currency for purchasing items, tames, and resources from the HLN-A shop or mission terminals. Gathering hexagons efficiently requires a combination of mission completion, exploration, and strategic planning. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to gather hexagons effectively.

To start, hexagons are earned primarily by completing missions in the Genesis maps. Missions vary in difficulty and type, ranging from races and hunts to survival challenges and puzzles. Each mission rewards a specific amount of hexagons based on its difficulty and your performance. For example, completing a Gamma-level mission will yield fewer hexagons than a Beta or Alpha-level mission. Therefore, focusing on higher-difficulty missions is key to maximizing your hexagon income.

Before attempting missions, preparation is crucial. Ensure your character is well-equipped with appropriate gear, such as weapons, armor, and tools. Tamed dinosaurs can also play a significant role in mission success. For example, a fast mount like a Raptor or Direwolf is ideal for racing missions, while a strong combat tame like a Rex or Spino is better suited for hunting or survival missions. Additionally, stock up on consumables like medical brews, food, and water to sustain yourself during longer missions.

When selecting missions, consider your strengths and available resources. For solo players, simpler missions like races or gathering tasks may be more manageable, while tribes can tackle more complex missions like boss fights or team-based challenges. Communication and coordination are essential for tribe members to succeed in group missions, as roles such as combat, healing, and support need to be assigned effectively.

One effective strategy is to focus on repeatable missions that you can complete quickly and consistently. For example, the "Star Dolphin" race in Genesis Part 2 is relatively easy and can be completed multiple times in a short period, providing a steady stream of hexagons. Similarly, the "Gauntlet" missions in Genesis Part 1 offer scalable difficulty and can be farmed for hexagons once you master their mechanics.

Advanced techniques involve optimizing your loadout and tames for specific missions. For instance, using a high-speed flyer like a Snow Owl or Griffin can give you an edge in racing missions, while a well-bred and imprinted combat tame can make survival missions much easier. Additionally, learning the spawn locations and patterns of mission-specific creatures can help you complete hunting missions more efficiently.

Resource management is also important when farming hexagons. Missions often require specific items or resources to complete, so ensure you have a steady supply of these materials. For example, some missions may require you to gather certain plants or craft specific items, so having a base with farming plots and crafting stations nearby can save time.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating mission difficulty and failing to prepare adequately. Jumping into a high-difficulty mission without the right gear or tames can result in failure and wasted time. Additionally, neglecting to repair or replace damaged equipment between missions can leave you vulnerable during critical moments.

For tribes, coordinating mission attempts and sharing resources can significantly improve efficiency. Assigning roles such as mission leader, support, and resource gatherer can streamline the process and ensure everyone contributes effectively. Solo players, on the other hand, should focus on missions that align with their strengths and available resources, avoiding overly complex tasks that may be too challenging to complete alone.

In summary, gathering hexagons in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of mission completion, preparation, and strategic planning. By focusing on high-reward missions, optimizing your loadout and tames, and managing resources effectively, you can accumulate hexagons efficiently. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, understanding mission mechanics and avoiding common pitfalls will help you succeed in this challenging but rewarding aspect of the game.