What are the best methods for farming polymer in the Snow Biome of ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming polymer in the Snow Biome of ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for players looking to craft advanced items like weapons, armor, and structures. Polymer is a high-tier resource used in many late-game recipes, and the Snow Biome is one of the best places to gather it efficiently. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm polymer in this biome, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips to maximize your efficiency.

The primary source of polymer in the Snow Biome is organic polymer, which can be harvested from certain creatures. The most common and efficient sources are Kairuku (penguins) and Mantises. Kairuku are small, passive creatures found in large groups along the icy shores, while Mantises are aggressive insects found in the desert areas of Scorched Earth or Ragnarok, but they can also be encountered in certain Snow Biome regions. Organic polymer is a direct substitute for regular polymer in most crafting recipes, but it spoils over time, so itÔÇÖs best to use it quickly or convert it into regular polymer using a fabricator.

To begin farming polymer, youÔÇÖll need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have the right tools and equipment. A high-damage weapon like a metal hatchet or chainsaw is ideal for harvesting organic polymer from Kairuku. For Mantises, a strong melee weapon or a tamed creature with high damage output is recommended. Additionally, bring a preserving bin or refrigerator to store the organic polymer, as it spoils quickly. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider bringing a tamed creature like a Direwolf or Sabertooth for protection against hostile creatures in the Snow Biome, such as Yetis or Dire Bears.

When farming Kairuku, head to the icy shores where they congregate. Approach them carefully, as they will flee if startled. Use your weapon to kill them and harvest their bodies for organic polymer. Each Kairuku can yield a significant amount of polymer, especially if you use a chainsaw. Be mindful of your surroundings, as the Snow Biome is home to dangerous predators that can attack you while youÔÇÖre focused on harvesting.

For Mantises, the process is more challenging due to their aggressive nature. If youÔÇÖre farming in the Snow Biome, youÔÇÖll need to locate their spawn points, which are less common than Kairuku. Use a tamed creature like a Rex or Spino to kill Mantises efficiently. Harvest their bodies with a metal hatchet or chainsaw to maximize polymer yield. Mantises also drop chitin, which can be useful for crafting cementing paste or other items.

One common mistake players make is not bringing enough storage or preservation tools. Organic polymer spoils in about 30 minutes, so itÔÇÖs essential to have a preserving bin or refrigerator nearby to extend its lifespan. If youÔÇÖre far from your base, consider building a small outpost with storage and preservation tools to store your polymer temporarily.

Advanced techniques include using a tamed Pelagornis or other flying creature to transport large amounts of polymer quickly. Pelagornis can land on water, making them ideal for navigating the icy shores where Kairuku are found. Additionally, using a chainsaw instead of a hatchet can significantly increase your polymer yield, as it has a higher harvesting multiplier for organic polymer.

Resource requirements for this task include a high-damage weapon, preserving tools, and possibly a tamed creature for protection or transportation. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other from hostile creatures. Solo players should focus on efficiency and safety, ensuring they have the necessary tools and a plan for quick extraction.

In summary, farming polymer in the Snow Biome involves harvesting organic polymer from Kairuku and Mantises using the right tools and strategies. Prepare adequately with preserving tools and protective measures, and consider advanced techniques like using a chainsaw or flying creature for efficiency. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting storage or underestimating the dangers of the biome. With careful planning and execution, you can gather large amounts of polymer to support your crafting needs in ARK: Survival Evolved.