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

Polymer is one of the most valuable resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, used for crafting advanced items like weapons, armor, and structures. Gathering polymer efficiently requires understanding the different sources and methods available, as well as preparing the right tools and tames to maximize your yield. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to gather polymer effectively.

Polymer can be obtained from two primary sources: organic polymer and obsidian-based polymer. Organic polymer is gathered from killing certain creatures, while obsidian-based polymer is crafted using obsidian and cementing paste. Organic polymer is more accessible early to mid-game, while obsidian-based polymer is more sustainable for late-game needs.

To gather organic polymer, you need to hunt specific creatures. The best sources are Kairuku (penguins), Mantis, and Hesperornis. Kairuku are found in cold regions like the snowy biomes on The Island or Ragnarok. They drop a significant amount of organic polymer when killed. Mantis, found in desert biomes on maps like Scorched Earth or Ragnarok, also drop organic polymer but are more dangerous to hunt. Hesperornis, found near water sources, drop organic polymer when killed, but they are less efficient than Kairuku.

To maximize your organic polymer yield, use a tamed creature with high damage output, such as a Rex or a Sabertooth. These creatures can quickly kill Kairuku or other polymer-dropping animals. Be cautious, as organic polymer spoils quickly, so gather it only when youÔÇÖre ready to use it. Carrying a preserving bin or refrigerator can help extend its lifespan.

For obsidian-based polymer, you need to gather obsidian and cementing paste. Obsidian is found in mountainous regions or near volcanic areas on most maps. Use a metal pickaxe or a tamed Ankylosaurus to gather obsidian efficiently. Cementing paste can be crafted using chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle or obtained by harvesting beaver dams, which contain large amounts of paste.

Once you have obsidian and cementing paste, craft polymer in a fabricator. This method is more sustainable than organic polymer, as obsidian and cementing paste do not spoil. However, it requires access to advanced crafting stations and a steady supply of resources.

When gathering polymer, preparation is key. For organic polymer, bring a high-damage tame and a preserving bin to store the polymer. For obsidian-based polymer, ensure you have a reliable source of obsidian and cementing paste. Tames like the Ankylosaurus for obsidian and the Doedicurus for stone can significantly speed up resource gathering.

Common mistakes include not preserving organic polymer properly, leading to spoilage, and underestimating the amount of obsidian and cementing paste needed for large projects. Always plan ahead and gather more resources than you think youÔÇÖll need.

Advanced techniques involve using tames to optimize resource gathering. For example, a Quetzal with a platform saddle can carry an Ankylosaurus to high-altitude obsidian nodes, making gathering faster and safer. Additionally, setting up a base near polymer-rich areas, like snowy biomes for Kairuku or mountains for obsidian, can save time and effort.

For tribes,ÕêåÕÀÑÕÉêõ¢£ is essential. Assign roles such as one player gathering obsidian, another collecting cementing paste, and a third hunting for organic polymer. This ensures a steady supply of polymer for the entire tribe. Solo players should focus on efficient tames and resource management to avoid being overwhelmed.

In specific scenarios, such as preparing for boss fights or building advanced structures, polymer becomes crucial. For example, crafting high-tier weapons like the assault rifle or building Tek structures requires large amounts of polymer. Plan your resource gathering accordingly to meet these demands.

In conclusion, gathering polymer in ARK requires a combination of hunting, resource gathering, and efficient use of tames. Whether you focus on organic polymer or obsidian-based polymer, preparation and strategy are key to maximizing your yield. By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure a steady supply of polymer for all your advanced crafting needs.