How do I locate and harvest rare resources like blue gems in the Aberration map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating and harvesting rare resources like blue gems in the Aberration map of ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of preparation, strategy, and knowledge of the map's unique mechanics. Blue gems are a critical resource in Aberration, used for crafting high-tier items like hazard suits, charge lanterns, and other advanced equipment. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you efficiently gather blue gems.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand where blue gems are located. In Aberration, blue gems are primarily found in the Bioluminescent and Element regions of the map. The Bioluminescent region is the glowing blue area filled with bioluminescent plants and creatures, while the Element region is the dangerous, radiation-filled zone near the mapÔÇÖs core. Blue gems are often found in clusters on the walls and ceilings of these areas, and they emit a faint blue glow, making them easier to spot in the dark.

To harvest blue gems, youÔÇÖll need the right tools. A metal pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus is the most effective way to gather blue gems. The Ankylosaurus is particularly useful because it can carry a large amount of weight and has a high harvesting efficiency for gems. If youÔÇÖre using a pickaxe, make sure itÔÇÖs made of metal, as stone or primitive pickaxes will yield fewer resources. Additionally, having a high melee damage stat on your character or dinosaur will increase the amount of blue gems you harvest per node.

Preparation is key when venturing into the Bioluminescent and Element regions. These areas are filled with dangerous creatures like Ravagers, Karkinos, and Nameless, so youÔÇÖll need to be well-equipped. Bring a strong mount like a Rock Drake or a Megalosaurus to help you navigate and defend yourself. A hazard suit is also essential, especially in the Element region, to protect against radiation. If you donÔÇÖt have a hazard suit, bring plenty of mushrooms like Aggeravic or Aquatic mushrooms, which can temporarily protect you from radiation.

When youÔÇÖre ready to start harvesting, head to the Bioluminescent region first. This area is less dangerous than the Element region and is a good place to gather blue gems if youÔÇÖre not fully prepared for the hazards of the core. Look for glowing blue nodes on the walls and ceilings. Use your Ankylosaurus or metal pickaxe to harvest them. Be cautious of nearby creatures, as they can attack while youÔÇÖre harvesting. If youÔÇÖre using a mount, make sure itÔÇÖs set to neutral or aggressive to defend itself.

In the Element region, the process is similar, but the dangers are greater. The radiation in this area will quickly drain your health if youÔÇÖre not protected, so make sure your hazard suit is equipped or you have enough mushrooms. The blue gem nodes in this region are often found in higher concentrations, but theyÔÇÖre also more difficult to reach. A Rock Drake is highly recommended for navigating the vertical terrain and avoiding dangerous creatures. Harvest the nodes quickly and be ready to retreat if youÔÇÖre overwhelmed.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the Element region. Many players venture in without proper protection or a strong mount, leading to quick deaths and lost resources. Always prepare thoroughly before entering this area. Another mistake is not bringing enough carrying capacity. Blue gems are heavy, and youÔÇÖll quickly become over-encumbered if you donÔÇÖt have a mount with high weight or a way to transport the gems back to your base.

Advanced techniques include using a Karkinos to carry an Ankylosaurus into the Element region. The Karkinos can jump long distances and carry heavy loads, making it easier to transport large amounts of blue gems. You can also set up a small outpost near the Element region with storage boxes and a bed to respawn if you die. This allows you to store your gems and continue harvesting without having to travel back to your main base.

Resource requirements for this task include a metal pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus, a hazard suit or protective mushrooms, and a strong mount like a Rock Drake or Megalosaurus. YouÔÇÖll also need food, water, and medical supplies to sustain yourself during the trip. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and defend each other while harvesting. Solo players should focus on being as self-sufficient as possible, bringing extra supplies and a strong mount to handle the dangers alone.

In summary, harvesting blue gems in Aberration requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a good understanding of the mapÔÇÖs dangers. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can efficiently gather the blue gems needed for advanced crafting and progression in the game.