Where are the best locations to find metal nodes on Extinction in ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, metal is one of the most important resources for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. On the Extinction map, metal nodes are abundant but concentrated in specific areas, making it crucial to know where to look. Below is a detailed guide on finding and farming metal nodes efficiently on Extinction, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Metal nodes on Extinction are primarily found in the Desert Biome, the Snow Biome, and the Wasteland. Each of these areas has its own challenges and benefits, so understanding the mechanics of each biome is key. Metal nodes appear as large, shiny rocks with a metallic sheen, and they yield a significant amount of metal when harvested with the right tools. Using a metal pickaxe or a high-level Ankylosaurus is the most efficient way to gather metal. The Ankylosaurus is particularly useful because it has a weight reduction for metal, allowing you to carry more before becoming encumbered.

To start farming metal, you should first prepare by crafting a metal pickaxe if you donÔÇÖt already have one. If you have access to an Ankylosaurus, tame one as it will significantly speed up the process. Additionally, bring a flying mount like an Argentavis or a Snow Owl to transport the metal back to your base. Argentavis is especially useful because it also has a weight reduction for metal, making it easier to carry large amounts. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider setting up a small outpost near the metal-rich areas to reduce travel time.

In the Desert Biome, metal nodes are scattered across the rocky terrain, particularly around the edges of the biome near the Wasteland. This area is relatively safe compared to other biomes, but you should still be cautious of predators like Carnotaurus and Raptors. The Snow Biome, on the other hand, is more dangerous due to the cold weather and the presence of creatures like Yutyrannus and Direwolves. However, the Snow Biome has some of the highest concentrations of metal nodes on the map, making it worth the risk. The Wasteland is the most dangerous area, with corrupted creatures and environmental hazards, but it also has abundant metal nodes, especially near the edges of the city.

When farming metal, always bring a few stacks of food, water, and medical supplies, especially if youÔÇÖre venturing into the Snow Biome or Wasteland. If youÔÇÖre using an Ankylosaurus, make sure it has enough health and stamina to survive encounters with predators. For solo players, itÔÇÖs a good idea to bring a few tames for protection, such as a pack of Raptors or a strong Rex. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to maximize efficiency. One player can focus on harvesting while others provide protection or transport the metal back to base.

A common mistake is overloading your mount or yourself with metal, which can slow you down and make you vulnerable to attacks. To avoid this, always keep an eye on your weight limit and make multiple trips if necessary. Another mistake is not scouting the area before starting to farm. Always check for nearby threats and clear them out before you begin harvesting. Advanced players can optimize their farming by using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry the Ankylosaurus, allowing you to harvest metal nodes from the air and avoid ground-based threats.

Resource requirements for metal farming include a metal pickaxe, a strong mount like an Ankylosaurus, and a flying mount for transportation. If youÔÇÖre setting up an outpost, bring building materials like wood, stone, and thatch to create a small shelter and storage boxes. For tribe play, consider building a forge near the metal-rich areas to smelt the metal on-site, reducing the need for multiple trips.

In summary, the best locations for metal nodes on Extinction are the Desert Biome, Snow Biome, and Wasteland. Each area has its own challenges, but with proper preparation and strategy, you can farm metal efficiently. Use an Ankylosaurus for harvesting, a flying mount for transportation, and always be aware of your surroundings to avoid danger. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these tips will help you gather the metal you need to progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.