Where are the best locations to find obsidian in the Extinction map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, obsidian is a crucial resource used for crafting advanced items such as polymer, electronics, and high-tier tools and weapons. On the Extinction map, obsidian is primarily found in specific biomes and locations, and gathering it efficiently requires preparation, strategy, and the right tools. Below is a detailed guide on how to locate and farm obsidian in Extinction, including mechanics, strategies, and tips to optimize your efforts.

Obsidian in Extinction is most commonly found in the Snow Dome biome, which is one of the three domes on the map. The Snow Dome is a cold, icy region filled with dangerous creatures like Snow Owls, Yutyrannus, and Direwolves, so preparation is key. Obsidian nodes in this biome appear as large, black, shiny rocks, often found on cliffsides or rocky outcrops. They can also be found in smaller quantities in the Desert Dome and the Wasteland, but the Snow Dome is the most reliable source.

To gather obsidian efficiently, you will need a high-level metal pick or a high-damage creature like a Mantis equipped with a metal pick in its hands. Ankylosaurus is another excellent choice for farming obsidian, as it has a high harvesting multiplier for this resource. If you are playing solo, taming an Ankylosaurus or Mantis is highly recommended, as they can carry large amounts of obsidian and reduce the number of trips needed. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players using Ankylosaurus or other high-weight creatures can significantly speed up the process.

Before heading to the Snow Dome, ensure you are well-prepared. Bring warm clothing or fur armor to withstand the cold temperatures, as hypothermia can quickly drain your health. Additionally, pack plenty of food, water, and medical supplies. If you are using a creature for farming, bring a Cryopod to store it when not in use, as the Snow Dome is filled with aggressive predators. A flying mount like an Argentavis or Snow Owl is also useful for scouting and transporting resources.

When you arrive in the Snow Dome, start by scouting the area for obsidian nodes. They are often located on higher ground or near cliffs, so be prepared to navigate uneven terrain. Once you locate a node, use your Ankylosaurus or Mantis to harvest it. If you are using a pick, aim for the center of the node to maximize yield. Be cautious of nearby predators, as they can interrupt your farming. Clear the area of threats before starting to gather obsidian.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of the Snow Dome. The cold environment and aggressive creatures can quickly overwhelm unprepared survivors. Always bring backup weapons and armor, and consider bringing a tamed creature for protection. Another mistake is not bringing enough weight capacity. Obsidian is heavy, and overloading your inventory or creature can slow you down or leave you stranded. Use a high-weight creature or multiple trips to manage your inventory effectively.

For advanced players, optimizing your farming route can save time and resources. Use a flying mount to map out the locations of obsidian nodes in the Snow Dome, then plan a path that allows you to harvest multiple nodes in one trip. If you are in a tribe, assign roles to each member, such as one player scouting for nodes, another clearing threats, and others gathering obsidian. This teamwork can significantly increase efficiency.

Resource requirements for obsidian farming include a high-quality pick or a tamed Ankylosaurus, warm clothing, and a flying mount for transportation. If you are using a Mantis, you will also need metal picks to equip it. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players and creatures can make the process faster and safer. Solo players should focus on taming a high-weight creature like an Ankylosaurus and using Cryopods to manage their inventory.

In summary, obsidian farming in Extinction requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a solid strategy. The Snow Dome is the best location for finding obsidian, but it is also one of the most dangerous areas on the map. By using high-damage creatures, planning your route, and staying alert for threats, you can efficiently gather obsidian and advance your crafting capabilities in ARK: Survival Evolved.