What is the best way to gather oil in the early game of ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering oil in the early game of ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial step for progressing, as oil is a key resource used in crafting advanced items like gasoline, polymer, and various tools. However, oil is not as readily available as other resources like wood or stone, and it often requires venturing into more dangerous areas. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to gather oil efficiently in the early game.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand where oil can be found. In the early game, the most accessible sources of oil are oil nodes and oil-rich creatures. Oil nodes are typically found in specific biomes, such as the snowy regions, underwater areas, or near certain caves. However, these areas are often dangerous, especially for low-level players. Oil-rich creatures, such as Trilobites and Leechs, can also drop oil when harvested, and these are generally easier to access.

For beginners, the safest way to gather oil is by hunting Trilobites. Trilobites are small, crab-like creatures that spawn along beaches and shallow waters. They are passive and will not attack you, making them an ideal target for early-game players. To harvest oil from Trilobites, you will need a pickaxe or a hatchet. A pickaxe yields more oil, so itÔÇÖs the preferred tool. Simply approach a Trilobite and attack it with your pickaxe to collect oil, along with other resources like chitin and silica pearls.

Another early-game option is to gather oil from Leechs, which can be found in swamps. However, swamps are dangerous due to the presence of aggressive creatures like Sarcosuchus and Titanoboas. If you choose to gather oil from Leechs, make sure to bring weapons and armor for protection. Leechs can also attach to you and drain your health, so be prepared to deal with them quickly.

If youÔÇÖre feeling more adventurous, you can venture into the snowy biome to gather oil from oil nodes. These nodes are black rocks that can be harvested with a pickaxe. However, the snowy biome is extremely cold, and you will need fur armor or other insulation to survive the freezing temperatures. Additionally, the snowy biome is home to dangerous predators like Direwolves and Sabertooths, so bring weapons and a tamed dinosaur for protection.

For underwater oil nodes, you will need to craft a scuba mask and flippers, or tame an aquatic dinosaur like an Ichthyosaurus to help you navigate the water. Underwater oil nodes are often found near the ocean floor, and they can be harvested with a pickaxe. Be cautious of underwater predators like Megalodons and Eurypterids, which can pose a significant threat.

In terms of preparation, make sure to bring the necessary tools and equipment. A pickaxe is essential for harvesting oil nodes and Trilobites, while weapons and armor are crucial for defending yourself against hostile creatures. If youÔÇÖre venturing into cold or underwater areas, bring appropriate gear like fur armor or scuba equipment. ItÔÇÖs also a good idea to bring a tamed dinosaur for protection and transportation. A Parasaur or Raptor can be useful for land travel, while an Ichthyosaurus or Dolphin can help you navigate underwater areas.

One common mistake early-game players make is underestimating the dangers of oil-rich areas. Snowy biomes and underwater regions are filled with aggressive creatures, and venturing into these areas unprepared can lead to death and loss of resources. Always scout the area first and ensure you have the necessary gear and tamed dinosaurs for protection.

Advanced techniques for gathering oil include using tamed dinosaurs to harvest oil more efficiently. For example, an Ankylosaurus can gather oil from oil nodes at a much faster rate than a pickaxe. Similarly, a Megalodon or Mosasaurus can help you gather underwater oil nodes while providing protection against aquatic predators. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather oil more efficiently. One player can focus on harvesting while others provide protection or transport resources back to your base.

In summary, gathering oil in the early game requires careful planning and preparation. Start by hunting Trilobites or Leechs for a safe and steady supply of oil. If youÔÇÖre ready to take on more dangerous areas, venture into the snowy biome or underwater regions to harvest oil nodes. Always bring the necessary tools, weapons, and gear, and consider using tamed dinosaurs to improve efficiency and safety. By following these strategies, you can gather oil effectively and progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.