What is the best way to farm element shards in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming element shards in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial activity for players looking to progress into the late game, as element shards are used to craft element, which powers advanced technology like Tek gear. Element shards are primarily obtained by defeating certain creatures, completing specific tasks, or harvesting them from specific locations. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to efficiently farm element shards.

Element shards are most commonly found in the Extinction map, where they can be harvested from corrupted nodes or obtained by defeating corrupted creatures. Corrupted nodes are glowing purple rocks scattered across the map, particularly in the wasteland biome. These nodes can be harvested using a pickaxe, but using a high-level Ankylosaurus or a Mining Drill is far more efficient. Corrupted creatures, such as corrupted dinosaurs, also drop element shards when killed. These creatures are aggressive and often travel in packs, so be prepared for combat.

To farm element shards effectively, youÔÇÖll need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a strong combat mount, such as a Rex, Spino, or Giga, to handle corrupted creatures. A high-level Ankylosaurus or a Mining Drill is essential for harvesting corrupted nodes. Bring plenty of healing items, such as cooked meat or medical brews, to sustain yourself during prolonged farming sessions. Additionally, having a flyer like an Argentavis or a Wyvern can help you transport resources and escape dangerous situations.

Start by heading to the wasteland biome on the Extinction map. This area is rich in corrupted nodes and creatures but is also highly dangerous due to the presence of powerful enemies. Use your flyer to scout the area and locate clusters of corrupted nodes. Once you find a good spot, land and deploy your Ankylosaurus or Mining Drill to begin harvesting. Be cautious of nearby corrupted creatures, as they will attack if they spot you. If youÔÇÖre farming with a tribe, assign roles to each member, such as one person harvesting while others defend against incoming threats.

When fighting corrupted creatures, focus on taking them down quickly to minimize damage to your mount. Use hit-and-run tactics if necessary, especially when dealing with large groups. After defeating corrupted creatures, loot their bodies for element shards and other valuable resources. If youÔÇÖre farming solo, consider using traps or chokepoints to control the flow of enemies and reduce the risk of being overwhelmed.

One common mistake is underestimating the difficulty of the wasteland biome. The corrupted creatures here are significantly stronger than their normal counterparts, and the environment is harsh. Always bring backup mounts and supplies in case your primary mount falls in battle. Another mistake is neglecting to repair your tools or mounts. The Mining Drill, for example, has limited durability and will break after extended use, so carry repair materials like metal ingots and electronics.

Advanced techniques for farming element shards include using a Tek suit to quickly traverse the map and escape danger. The Tek suitÔÇÖs hover mode allows you to move swiftly and avoid ground-based threats. Additionally, using a high-level Giga with a good saddle can make short work of corrupted creatures, allowing you to farm shards more efficiently. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, consider setting up a small outpost near the wasteland biome with storage and crafting stations to reduce downtime.

Resource requirements for farming element shards include a steady supply of food, ammunition, and repair materials. If youÔÇÖre using firearms, stock up on bullets and gunpowder. For melee combat, ensure your weapons are in good condition and have high durability. If youÔÇÖre using tames, bring plenty of food to keep their health and stamina up.

In solo play, farming element shards can be more challenging due to the lack of backup. Focus on hit-and-run tactics and avoid engaging large groups of corrupted creatures unless absolutely necessary. Use your flyer to escape dangerous situations and always have an exit strategy. In tribe play, coordinate with your teammates to maximize efficiency and safety. Assign roles such as harvester, defender, and transporter to streamline the farming process.

Specific examples of farming locations include the area around the Sanctuary city on Extinction, where corrupted nodes and creatures are plentiful. Another good spot is the desert biome, which has fewer corrupted creatures but still contains a decent number of nodes. For maximum efficiency, rotate between these areas to avoid depleting resources in one location.

In conclusion, farming element shards in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strong mounts, and effective combat strategies. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, focus on efficiency and safety to maximize your yield. By following these tips and techniques, youÔÇÖll be able to gather element shards and progress into the late game with ease.