What is the best way to gather ambergris in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Ambergris is a rare and valuable resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, primarily used for crafting certain advanced items and taming specific creatures like the Astrocetus (Space Whale) in the Genesis Part 1 DLC. Gathering ambergris requires careful planning and preparation, as it is only found in specific locations and under certain conditions. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather ambergris, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips to maximize your efforts.

Ambergris is found in the Lunar Biome on the Genesis Part 1 map. This biome is one of the most dangerous areas in the game, featuring low gravity, extreme temperatures, and hostile creatures like the Ferox and the aggressive Lunar creatures. The ambergris itself is a glowing, yellowish resource that can be harvested from specific nodes scattered across the Lunar Biome. These nodes are often found in clusters, but they are not always easy to spot due to the biome's unique terrain and lighting.

To begin gathering ambergris, you will need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have the necessary equipment to survive in the Lunar Biome. This includes a Tek Suit or high-quality armor to protect against the extreme cold and radiation. A Tek Suit is highly recommended because it provides environmental protection, increased mobility, and the ability to fly, which is crucial for navigating the low-gravity environment. If you do not have access to a Tek Suit, consider using Fur Armor or other cold-resistant gear, but be aware that you will still be vulnerable to radiation and other hazards.

Next, you will need a strong mount to help you traverse the Lunar Biome and defend against hostile creatures. A high-level Ferox in its large form is an excellent choice, as it is well-suited to the biome's conditions and can deal significant damage to enemies. Alternatively, a high-level Rock Drake or Managarmr can also be effective, as they offer mobility and combat capabilities. Make sure your mount is well-equipped with a saddle and has high health and damage stats to handle the threats in the area.

Once you are prepared, head to the Lunar Biome. The ambergris nodes are typically found in the open areas of the biome, often near the edges of craters or on elevated terrain. Use your mount to scout the area and locate the glowing yellow nodes. When you find a node, dismount and use a pickaxe or a metal hatchet to harvest the ambergris. Each node will yield a small amount of ambergris, so you will need to gather from multiple nodes to accumulate a significant quantity.

One important tip is to bring a high-level Ankylosaurus or a similar gathering dinosaur to increase your harvesting efficiency. While you can gather ambergris with hand tools, using a dinosaur with high melee damage will yield more resources per node. Additionally, consider bringing a weight-reducing mount like a Argentavis or a Tek Stryder to carry the ambergris, as it is a heavy resource and can quickly encumber you.

A common mistake to avoid is venturing into the Lunar Biome unprepared. The biome's extreme conditions and hostile creatures can quickly overwhelm you if you are not properly equipped. Always ensure you have sufficient food, water, and medical supplies, as well as a backup plan in case you encounter a dangerous situation. Additionally, be cautious when harvesting ambergris, as the nodes are often guarded by aggressive creatures like the Ferox or Lunar creatures. Clear the area of threats before attempting to gather resources.

For advanced players, consider setting up a small outpost in the Lunar Biome to store your gathered ambergris and resupply. A Tek Generator and Tek Shield can provide protection and power for your outpost, allowing you to stay in the biome for extended periods. You can also use a Tek Teleporter to quickly transport ambergris back to your main base, reducing the risk of losing resources during transit.

In terms of tribe considerations, gathering ambergris is more efficient with a coordinated team. Assign roles to each member, such as one person scouting for nodes, another harvesting, and a third defending against threats. This division of labor can significantly increase your gathering speed and safety. For solo players, focus on mobility and stealth to avoid unnecessary confrontations and maximize your resource collection.

In summary, gathering ambergris in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, the right equipment, and a strong mount. The Lunar Biome is a dangerous area, but with the right strategies, you can efficiently harvest this valuable resource. Always prioritize safety, use high-level gathering dinosaurs, and consider setting up an outpost for long-term resource collection. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, following these tips will help you gather ambergris effectively and safely.