What is the best way to gather space whale oil in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering space whale oil in ARK: Survival Evolved is a task that requires preparation, strategy, and understanding of the game's mechanics. Space whale oil is a resource obtained from the Space Whale, also known as the Astrocetus, which is a massive, floating creature found in the Genesis Part 1 map. This resource is essential for crafting advanced items and structures, making it a valuable commodity for players looking to progress in the game.

To begin, you need to locate an Astrocetus. These creatures are typically found in the Lunar Biome of the Genesis Part 1 map. The Lunar Biome is a harsh environment with low gravity and dangerous creatures, so preparation is key. Before heading out, ensure you have the necessary equipment and tames to survive and effectively harvest the oil.

First, you will need a strong mount capable of dealing significant damage. The Astrocetus is a formidable creature with high health and damage output, so bringing a powerful tame like a Rex, Giga, or a well-bred pack of Allosaurus is recommended. Additionally, having a flyer such as an Argentavis or a Wyvern can help you navigate the Lunar Biome and reach the Astrocetus, which often floats high above the ground.

Once you have located an Astrocetus, the next step is to engage it in combat. The Astrocetus has a unique mechanic where it can summon smaller creatures called Space Dolphins to aid it in battle. These Space Dolphins can be a nuisance, so it is important to deal with them quickly. Focus your attacks on the Astrocetus while keeping an eye on the Space Dolphins. Using a high-damage mount will help you take down the Astrocetus more efficiently.

After defeating the Astrocetus, you can harvest its body for space whale oil. Using a high-damage tool like a Chainsaw or a Therizinosaurus with high melee damage will yield the most oil. It is important to note that the amount of oil you gather can vary based on the tool or tame you use, so optimizing your harvesting method is crucial.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the Astrocetus and its Space Dolphins. Engaging the Astrocetus without proper preparation can lead to a quick defeat. Always ensure you have enough healing items, such as Medical Brews or Custom Consumables, to keep your tames and yourself alive during the fight. Additionally, bringing a backup tame or having a tribe member assist you can make the encounter much easier.

For advanced players, optimizing your tames and equipment can significantly improve your efficiency in gathering space whale oil. Breeding high-level Rexes or Gigas with mutations in melee damage and health can make the fight against the Astrocetus much quicker and safer. Additionally, using a Tek Rifle or other advanced weapons can help deal with the Space Dolphins more effectively.

Resource management is also important when preparing for this task. Ensure you have enough ammunition for your weapons, food for your tames, and materials for repairing your equipment. The Lunar Biome is a dangerous place, and running out of resources mid-fight can be disastrous.

For solo players, the challenge of gathering space whale oil is greater, but not impossible. Focus on taming high-level, strong creatures and equipping them with the best saddles available. Using a combination of ranged weapons and melee tames can help you manage the fight more effectively. Additionally, consider setting up a small base or outpost near the Lunar Biome to store supplies and respawn if needed.

In a tribe setting, coordination is key. Assign roles to each tribe member, such as one person focusing on the Astrocetus while others handle the Space Dolphins. Having a dedicated healer or support player can also make a significant difference in the outcome of the fight.

In conclusion, gathering space whale oil in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strong tames, and effective combat strategies. By understanding the mechanics of the Astrocetus and optimizing your approach, you can efficiently harvest this valuable resource and continue progressing in the game. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, the key to success lies in preparation, coordination, and adaptability.