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

Oil is a crucial resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, especially for mid-to-late game progression. It is used to craft advanced items like gasoline, polymer, and various industrial structures. On The Center map, oil nodes are primarily found underwater, in specific caves, and in certain biomes. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to locate and gather oil efficiently.

Oil nodes on The Center are most commonly found in the ocean biome, particularly in the deep underwater regions. These nodes appear as black, spiky rocks and can be harvested using a pickaxe, a metal hatchet, or a creature with high melee damage like an Ankylosaurus. However, since most oil nodes are underwater, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for aquatic exploration. Taming a water-dwelling creature like a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Ichthyosaurus is highly recommended for safe and efficient oil gathering. These creatures not only provide mobility but also protection against hostile marine life like Cnidaria and Electrophorus.

To begin your oil-gathering journey, youÔÇÖll need to prepare the necessary tools and equipment. Craft a scuba tank, flippers, and a Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time and improve swimming speed. If youÔÇÖre using a water mount, ensure it has high health and stamina to handle potential threats. Additionally, bring a Cryopod to store your mount if you need to travel long distances or avoid danger.

One of the best locations for oil nodes on The Center is the deep ocean trench near the mapÔÇÖs center. This area is rich in oil nodes but is also home to dangerous creatures like Mosasaurs and Tusoteuthis. To safely gather oil here, approach the trench with a well-leveled Basilosaurus or a pack of Megalodons. Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus, making it a safer choice for underwater exploration. Once you locate the oil nodes, dismount and use your tools or a tamed Ankylosaurus to harvest the oil. Be cautious of your surroundings, as hostile creatures can quickly overwhelm you if youÔÇÖre not prepared.

Another excellent location for oil is the Lava Biome, which contains oil rocks on land. These nodes are easier to access but are often guarded by dangerous creatures like Carnotaurus and Raptors. To gather oil here, bring a strong land mount like a Rex or a Spino for protection. The oil nodes in the Lava Biome are scattered across the rocky terrain, so explore thoroughly to maximize your yield. Keep in mind that this biome is extremely hot, so wear Desert Cloth Armor or consume Enduro Stew to mitigate heat damage.

For solo players, gathering oil can be challenging due to the dangers of underwater and hostile biomes. ItÔÇÖs essential to prioritize taming a strong water mount and equipping it with a saddle for added protection. Solo players should also consider building a small underwater base or a raft with a storage box to store gathered oil and avoid frequent trips back to land. For tribes, coordinating with teammates to gather oil in large quantities is more efficient. Assign roles such as scouting, harvesting, and defense to ensure a smooth operation. Tribes can also establish underwater outposts near oil-rich areas to streamline the gathering process.

A common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of underwater exploration. Always scout the area before diving in, and avoid venturing too deep without proper preparation. Another mistake is overloading your inventory with oil, which slows you down and makes you vulnerable to attacks. Use a mount with high weight capacity to carry the oil, or bring a pack animal like a Diplodocus to transport resources back to your base.

Advanced techniques for oil gathering include using a Tek Suit for underwater mobility and protection, or taming a Dunkleosteus, which can harvest oil nodes more efficiently than tools. Additionally, consider using a Transmitter to quickly transport oil back to your base if you have access to Tek Tier.

In summary, oil gathering on The Center requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a strong mount. Focus on the deep ocean trench and Lava Biome for the best oil yields, and always prioritize safety when exploring dangerous areas. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, efficient resource management and strategic planning will ensure a steady supply of oil for your advanced crafting needs.