Where are the best locations to find oil nodes on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Oil is one of the most important resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, as it is used to craft advanced items like gasoline, polymer, and various industrial tools. On The Island map, oil nodes are primarily found in underwater locations, with a few land-based nodes in specific areas. Understanding where to find oil and how to gather it efficiently is crucial for mid-to-late game progression. Below is a detailed guide on locating and harvesting oil nodes on The Island.

Oil nodes on The Island are most commonly found in the ocean, particularly in the deeper parts of the map. The best underwater locations for oil are in the northwest and northeast regions of the map. In the northwest, you can find oil nodes near the underwater caves and trenches around the coordinates 10-20 latitude and 10-20 longitude. In the northeast, oil nodes are scattered around the underwater area near the coordinates 70-80 latitude and 10-20 longitude. These areas are rich in oil but are also home to dangerous creatures like Megalodons, Electrophorus, and Cnidaria, so preparation is key.

For land-based oil nodes, the Snow Biome in the northwest part of the map is the best location. Oil nodes here are found on the surface, often near the edges of cliffs or in rocky areas. The coordinates for this biome are around 10-20 latitude and 10-20 longitude. However, the Snow Biome is extremely cold, so you will need proper insulation, such as Fur Armor or a high Fortitude stat, to survive the harsh environment. Additionally, predators like Direwolves and Yetis roam this area, so bring a strong mount or weapons for protection.

To gather oil, you will need a tool like a Metal Pick or an Ankylosaurus. Underwater oil nodes can be harvested with a Pick, but using a Dunkleosteus is far more efficient. The Dunkleosteus is a water-dwelling creature that can harvest oil nodes quickly and carry large amounts of oil. If you are gathering oil on land, an Ankylosaurus is the best choice, as it can harvest oil nodes efficiently and carry a significant amount of resources.

Preparation is essential when gathering oil, especially underwater. Before heading out, ensure you have the following: a strong water mount like a Megalodon, Basilosaurus, or Tuso for protection and mobility, Scuba Gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time, and a Cryopod to store your mount if needed. For land-based oil gathering, bring a strong mount like a Rex or Yutyrannus to fend off predators, and make sure you have proper insulation to survive the cold.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of underwater oil gathering. The ocean is filled with hostile creatures, and without proper preparation, you can easily lose your mount or even your life. Always scout the area first and clear out any threats before starting to gather oil. Another mistake is not bringing enough storage. Oil is heavy, so make sure your mount has enough weight capacity or bring a second mount to carry the excess.

Advanced techniques for oil gathering include setting up an underwater base near oil-rich areas. This allows you to store oil and other resources without having to travel back to your main base. You can also use a Tek Transmitter to quickly transport oil to your main base if you have access to Tek Tier. Additionally, taming a Basilosaurus is highly recommended for underwater oil gathering, as it provides immunity to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus, making it one of the safest mounts for ocean exploration.

For solo players, oil gathering can be challenging due to the dangers of the ocean and Snow Biome. It is recommended to tame a strong mount and bring backup supplies like Medical Brews and Stimulants in case of emergencies. For tribes, dividing tasks can make oil gathering more efficient. One player can focus on gathering oil while others protect them from threats or transport resources back to the base.

In summary, the best locations for oil nodes on The Island are the underwater areas in the northwest and northeast, as well as the Snow Biome in the northwest. Preparation, proper tools, and strong mounts are essential for efficient oil gathering. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating dangers and not bringing enough storage. Advanced techniques like setting up an underwater base or using a Tek Transmitter can optimize your oil gathering process. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and execution will ensure you gather oil safely and efficiently.