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

Gathering rare resources like Element in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. Element is one of the most valuable resources in the game, used for crafting advanced Tek-tier items and structures. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather Element, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Element is primarily obtained by defeating bosses, completing certain missions in Genesis, or harvesting it from specific sources like Element Nodes in Extinction or Element Shards in Aberration. The most common method for obtaining Element is by defeating bosses, as they drop Element directly or provide Element Shards that can be crafted into Element. To start, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for boss fights, which require strong tamed creatures, high-quality gear, and a well-coordinated tribe if playing in a group.

First, youÔÇÖll need to gather the necessary resources to summon a boss. Each boss requires specific tribute items, such as artifacts, trophies, or other rare materials. These items are found in caves scattered across the map, so youÔÇÖll need to explore and clear these caves to collect them. Be prepared for tough battles with cave creatures, and consider bringing a strong mount like a Sabertooth or Thylacoleo for combat and mobility. Once you have the required tribute items, head to the appropriate obelisk or terminal to summon the boss.

For boss fights, youÔÇÖll need a team of powerful tamed creatures. Rexes, Therizinos, and Yutyrannus are popular choices due to their high damage output and survivability. Make sure your creatures have high health, melee damage, and good saddles to reduce incoming damage. Breeding and imprinting your creatures can significantly boost their stats, so invest time in creating a strong army. Additionally, bring a Yutyrannus for its courage roar, which increases the damage and resistance of nearby creatures, and a Daeodon for healing during the fight.

During the boss fight, focus on positioning and coordination. Keep your creatures close together to maximize the YutyrannusÔÇÖs buff and the DaeodonÔÇÖs healing. Avoid letting your creatures get stuck on terrain or separated, as this can lead to unnecessary losses. Use ranged weapons like shotguns or assault rifles to deal damage from a safe distance, but be cautious of the bossÔÇÖs attacks, which can deal massive damage.

After defeating the boss, youÔÇÖll receive Element or Element Shards as a reward. If you get Element Shards, youÔÇÖll need to craft them into Element at a Tek Replicator or City Terminal. This process requires a significant amount of resources, including metal, crystal, and electronics, so make sure you have a steady supply of these materials.

For solo players, the process is similar but more challenging. YouÔÇÖll need to rely on a smaller team of creatures and carefully manage your resources. Consider using a Megatherium for the Broodmother fight, as its insect killer buff makes it exceptionally strong against her. Additionally, solo players should focus on breeding and imprinting their creatures to maximize their effectiveness.

In Extinction, Element can also be harvested from Element Nodes during a Titan fight. These nodes appear when a Titan is active, and you can use a Tek Stryder or a Mining Drill to harvest them. This method is more advanced and requires access to Tek-tier equipment, so itÔÇÖs best suited for late-game players.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the difficulty of boss fights, not preparing enough resources, and failing to coordinate with your tribe. Always bring extra supplies, such as medical brews and ammunition, and make sure your creatures are fully healed and fed before the fight. Additionally, avoid engaging multiple bosses at once unless youÔÇÖre confident in your abilities.

Advanced techniques include using Tek gear like Tek Rifles or Tek Saddles to gain an edge in combat. Tek Saddles, in particular, can provide powerful abilities like the Tek RexÔÇÖs laser attack, which deals massive damage to bosses. Additionally, consider using a Tek Generator to power your base and reduce the need for traditional fuel sources.

In summary, gathering Element in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strong tamed creatures, and strategic planning. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, focus on collecting tribute items, breeding powerful creatures, and coordinating effectively during boss fights. With the right approach, youÔÇÖll be able to gather Element and unlock the advanced Tek-tier technology it enables.