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

Gathering sulfur in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for crafting explosives, gunpowder, and other advanced items. Sulfur is primarily found in volcanic regions, caves, and specific resource nodes, making it a high-risk, high-reward resource. To efficiently gather sulfur, you need to understand the mechanics, prepare adequately, and use the right strategies.

Sulfur is most commonly found in the form of yellow rocks in volcanic biomes, such as the Volcano on The Island map or the Wyvern Trench on Scorched Earth. These rocks are distinct in appearance and can be harvested using tools like a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. However, the best tool for gathering sulfur is the Ankylosaurus, a dinosaur that excels at mining resources. When using an Ankylosaurus, you can gather large amounts of sulfur quickly, and its weight reduction for metal and stone also applies to sulfur, making it easier to transport.

Before heading out to gather sulfur, you need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have the necessary tools or a tamed Ankylosaurus. If you are using tools, bring a high-quality pickaxe or metal hatchet, as these will yield more sulfur per hit. If you are using an Ankylosaurus, make sure it is leveled up in melee damage and weight to maximize efficiency. Additionally, bring a strong mount for protection, such as a Rex or a Carnotaurus, as volcanic regions are often populated by dangerous creatures like Raptors, Carnos, and even the occasional Rex.

When gathering sulfur, always be aware of your surroundings. Volcanic biomes are hazardous due to extreme temperatures, falling rocks, and aggressive creatures. If you are playing on Scorched Earth, be cautious of the heat and bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration. In caves, watch out for traps, hostile creatures, and other players in PvP scenarios. It is also a good idea to bring a few bolas or tranquilizer arrows to deal with smaller threats like Raptors or Purlovias.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of sulfur-rich areas. Many players venture into these regions unprepared and end up losing their gear or tames. To avoid this, always scout the area first, either on foot or with a flying mount, to identify potential threats and safe routes. Another mistake is overloading your inventory or your Ankylosaurus with sulfur, which can slow you down and make you an easy target. Always monitor your weight and make multiple trips if necessary.

For advanced players, consider setting up a small outpost near sulfur-rich areas to store resources and respawn if needed. This can be a simple hut with a bed, storage boxes, and a few turrets for defense. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather sulfur more efficiently. One player can focus on mining while others provide protection or transport the resources back to your base.

Resource management is key when gathering sulfur. Always prioritize safety over speed, and make sure you have enough supplies to survive the trip. Bring extra tools, weapons, and healing items in case of emergencies. If you are playing solo, consider taming a pack animal like a Parasaur or a Trike to carry additional resources. In a tribe, assign roles to each member to streamline the process, such as one person mining, another guarding, and a third transporting.

Specific examples of sulfur-rich areas include the Volcano on The Island, where sulfur nodes are scattered around the base and slopes. On Scorched Earth, the Wyvern Trench is a prime location for sulfur, but it is also home to dangerous Wyverns, so proceed with caution. In caves, sulfur can be found in smaller quantities, but the risk of ambushes and traps makes it a challenging endeavor.

In conclusion, gathering sulfur in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, the right tools or tames, and a keen awareness of your surroundings. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and efficiency to maximize your sulfur yield. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a steady supply of sulfur for your crafting needs.