Where can I find the artifact of the Strong in the Lava Cave of ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Artifact of the Strong is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, and it is located in the Lava Cave, also known as the Caverns of Lost Faith, on The Island map. This artifact is essential for summoning the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. Finding and retrieving the Artifact of the Strong can be a challenging task due to the cave's hostile environment, dangerous creatures, and environmental hazards. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully navigate the Lava Cave and obtain the artifact.

The Lava Cave is located in the southern part of The Island, near coordinates 70.6 latitude and 86.1 longitude. The entrance is a large, rocky opening that leads into a dark and treacherous underground system filled with lava flows, tight passages, and aggressive creatures such as Onyc, Arthropluera, and Titanoboas. The cave is also extremely hot, so proper preparation is crucial to survive the journey.

Before entering the Lava Cave, you need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a strong and fast mount, such as a Sabertooth, Direwolf, or Baryonyx. These creatures are ideal for navigating the cave's narrow passages and dealing with the hostile wildlife. A Baryonyx is particularly useful because it can swim and has a stun attack that can incapacitate smaller creatures. Additionally, bring a good set of armor, such as Ghillie or Flak, to protect against the heat and enemy attacks. A crossbow or longneck rifle with tranq darts is also recommended for dealing with threats from a distance.

Resource preparation is critical. Bring plenty of medical brews, stimulants, and food to sustain yourself during the expedition. The heat inside the cave can drain your stamina and health quickly, so having these items on hand is essential. You should also carry a few campfires or standing torches to provide light in the darker sections of the cave. A grappling hook can be a lifesaver for navigating tricky terrain or escaping dangerous situations.

Once you are prepared, head to the cave entrance and begin your descent. The Lava Cave is a linear path with a few branching tunnels, so it is relatively easy to navigate if you follow the main route. Be cautious of the lava flows, as they can cause significant damage if you fall into them. Use your mount to jump over gaps and avoid the lava. Along the way, you will encounter various creatures, so stay alert and use your weapons or mount to eliminate threats quickly.

The Artifact of the Strong is located in a chamber deep within the cave. To reach it, you will need to navigate through a series of narrow passages and cross a large lava-filled room. In this room, you will find a stone platform with the artifact resting on it. Be careful when approaching the artifact, as the area is often guarded by powerful creatures. Clear the area of enemies before attempting to retrieve the artifact.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the cave's heat and environmental hazards. Without proper preparation, you can quickly succumb to the heat or fall into lava, losing valuable items and progress. Another mistake is rushing through the cave without clearing enemies, which can lead to being overwhelmed by multiple creatures at once. Take your time, and always be aware of your surroundings.

For advanced players, using a Cryopod to bring a stronger mount, such as a Thylacoleo or Megatherium, can make the journey easier. These creatures have high damage output and can handle the cave's threats more effectively. Additionally, using a grappling hook to bypass certain sections of the cave can save time and reduce the risk of encountering dangerous creatures.

If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks, such as scouting, combat, and resource management. Having multiple players can make the expedition safer and more efficient. Solo players should focus on preparation and caution, as they will not have backup in case of emergencies.

In summary, obtaining the Artifact of the Strong in the Lava Cave requires careful preparation, a strong mount, and a cautious approach. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully retrieve the artifact and progress toward summoning the Broodmother Lysrix. Good luck, and may your journey through the Lava Cave be a successful one.