What are the safest ways to gather resources in the radiation zone on Scorched Earth in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering resources in the radiation zone on Scorched Earth in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging task due to the environmental hazards and dangerous creatures in the area. The radiation zone, also known as the "Dead Zone," is located in the northwest corner of the map and is filled with radiation that damages players and tames over time. To safely gather resources here, you need to prepare thoroughly and follow specific strategies.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of the radiation zone. The radiation deals damage over time to both players and tames, and it cannot be mitigated by standard armor or fortitude. The only way to survive the radiation is by using a Hazard Suit, which is crafted using materials like polymer, cementing paste, and silica pearls. The Hazard Suit provides full protection against radiation, but it degrades over time, so you need to bring repair materials or a backup suit. Additionally, the zone is home to dangerous creatures like Deathworms and Rock Elementals, so you must be prepared for combat.

To begin, you should craft a Hazard Suit. This requires a Fabricator and the following materials: polymer, cementing paste, silica pearls, fiber, and hide. Polymer can be obtained from killing Kairuku or harvesting organic polymer from certain creatures. Cementing paste is crafted from chitin or keratin and stone in a Mortar and Pestle or Chem Bench. Silica pearls are found in underwater locations or by harvesting certain rocks. Once you have the Hazard Suit, equip it before entering the radiation zone.

Next, choose the right tames for resource gathering. Ankylosaurus is ideal for harvesting metal and obsidian, while a Doedicurus is best for stone. A high-level Argentavis or Wyvern can help carry these creatures and provide aerial support. Make sure your tames are well-leveled and have high health and melee damage to handle any threats. You can also bring a pack of strong combat tames like Rexes or Allosaurus to protect your resource gatherers.

Before entering the radiation zone, scout the area from a safe distance using a flying mount. Identify resource nodes and potential threats. Plan a route that minimizes exposure to dangerous creatures and maximizes resource collection. Bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, as well as repair materials for your Hazard Suit and tools.

When gathering resources, stay alert and keep your tames close. Use your combat tames to fend off any aggressive creatures. If you encounter a Deathworm or Rock Elemental, focus on taking them down quickly to avoid prolonged combat. Use hit-and-run tactics with your flying mount to minimize damage. If your Hazard Suit starts to degrade, retreat to a safe area to repair or replace it.

Common mistakes to avoid include entering the radiation zone without a Hazard Suit, underestimating the dangers of the area, and overextending your resources. Always have a backup plan and be ready to retreat if necessary. Do not bring low-level tames or insufficient supplies, as this can lead to failure and loss of valuable equipment.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport multiple resource gatherers and a mobile base. This allows you to carry more resources and repair your Hazard Suit on the go. You can also set up a small outpost near the radiation zone with a bed and storage to reduce travel time and increase efficiency.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial. Bring enough materials to craft or repair your Hazard Suit, as well as tools like metal picks and hatchets. Stock up on food, water, and medical supplies, and ensure your tames are well-fed and healed. Consider bringing a Cryopod to store and deploy tames as needed.

For tribes, coordination is key. Assign roles to each member, such as resource gathering, combat support, and transportation. Use voice chat or text communication to stay organized and respond quickly to threats. Solo players should focus on efficiency and safety, using high-level tames and advanced techniques to maximize resource collection while minimizing risk.

In specific scenarios, you might encounter a large group of aggressive creatures or a particularly dangerous area. In these cases, use your flying mount to lure enemies away or create distractions. Use terrain to your advantage, such as cliffs or rocks, to block attacks and gain a tactical advantage. Always prioritize survival over resource collection, and retreat if the situation becomes too dangerous.

By following these strategies and tips, you can safely gather resources in the radiation zone on Scorched Earth. Preparation, awareness, and efficient use of tames and equipment are essential for success in this hazardous environment.