What are the safest ways to gather resources in the desert biome on Ragnarok in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The desert biome on Ragnarok in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging areas to gather resources due to its harsh environment and dangerous creatures. However, with proper preparation and strategy, you can safely collect valuable resources like metal, crystal, obsidian, and sulfur. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you navigate this biome effectively.

First, understanding the mechanics of the desert biome is crucial. The desert is extremely hot during the day, causing rapid dehydration and heatstroke if youÔÇÖre not prepared. At night, temperatures drop significantly, leading to hypothermia. Additionally, the biome is home to aggressive creatures like Wyverns, Deathworms, and Rock Elementals, which can easily overwhelm unprepared players. To survive, youÔÇÖll need to manage your hydration, temperature, and combat readiness.

Preparation is key before venturing into the desert. Start by crafting or acquiring a full set of Desert Cloth Armor, which provides excellent insulation against the heat. Bring plenty of water containers, such as Waterskins or Canteens, and consider using a Jerboa to help predict weather changes. A high-level mount, such as a Wyvern, Thylacoleo, or Rock Drake, is essential for both mobility and defense. Pack enough food, medical brews, and stimulants to sustain yourself during long resource-gathering trips.

When gathering resources, always scout the area first. Use a flying mount to survey the terrain and identify resource nodes like metal rocks, crystal formations, and obsidian deposits. Be cautious of nearby threats, especially Wyverns and Deathworms, which can ambush you if youÔÇÖre not paying attention. If youÔÇÖre on foot, stay close to your mount for quick escapes. For metal and crystal, focus on the rocky outcrops and cliffs, as these areas often have rich deposits. Obsidian can be found near volcanic regions, while sulfur is typically located in caves or near geysers.

One effective strategy is to establish a small, temporary outpost near the desertÔÇÖs edge. This base should include a bed for respawning, storage boxes for resources, and a few turrets or plant species X for defense. This allows you to store your gathered materials safely and respawn nearby if you die. Avoid building in open areas where Rock Elementals or Wyverns can easily destroy your structures.

When gathering resources, always prioritize safety over speed. Avoid overloading your inventory, as this will slow you down and make it harder to escape danger. Use a high-weight mount like a Paraceratherium or Argentavis to carry heavy resources. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider taming a pack of Ankylosaurs or Doedicurus to help with mining and stone gathering. These creatures can significantly speed up the process while keeping you safe from threats.

Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into the desert without proper gear, underestimating the dangers of the biome, and overextending your resource-gathering trips. Always keep an eye on your hydration and temperature levels, and donÔÇÖt hesitate to retreat if youÔÇÖre overwhelmed. Additionally, avoid engaging with Wyverns or Deathworms unless youÔÇÖre fully prepared for a fight. These creatures are extremely dangerous and can easily kill you or your mount.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport Ankylosaurs or Doedicurus directly to resource nodes. This allows you to mine large quantities of metal, crystal, or obsidian quickly and safely. Another optimization is to use a Tek Suit or Tek Helmet to scan for resources and threats from a distance. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and defend against threats more effectively.

Resource requirements for a successful desert expedition include Desert Cloth Armor, Waterskins or Canteens, a high-level mount, and tools like a Metal Pick or Chainsaw. Bring enough food, medical brews, and stimulants to sustain yourself, and consider crafting a few Cryopods to store and deploy backup mounts if needed.

In summary, gathering resources in the desert biome on Ragnarok requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and constant vigilance. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can safely collect valuable materials and thrive in one of ARKÔÇÖs most challenging environments. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, always prioritize safety and efficiency to make the most of your time in the desert.