Where is the best location to find metal nodes on The Island map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Finding metal nodes on The Island map in ARK: Survival Evolved is crucial for progression, as metal is one of the most important resources in the game. It is used to craft advanced tools, weapons, armor, and structures, making it essential for both solo players and tribes. Metal nodes are primarily found in mountainous and rocky areas, and knowing where to look and how to efficiently gather metal can save you a lot of time and effort.

The best locations to find metal nodes on The Island are the mountains and hills scattered across the map. The most notable areas include the volcano in the center of the map, the mountain in the northwest (known as the Frozen Tooth), the mountain in the northeast (known as the Far's Peak), and the smaller hills near the Red Obelisk. These areas are rich in metal nodes, and you can often find clusters of them in close proximity. The volcano, in particular, is one of the most metal-rich areas on the map, but it is also dangerous due to the presence of predators like Carnotaurus, Raptors, and even the occasional Rex.

To gather metal efficiently, you will need the right tools and dinosaurs. A metal pick is the best tool for harvesting metal nodes, as it yields more metal than a stone pick. However, using a metal hatchet on metal nodes will give you more stone, so make sure you are using the correct tool. Once you have a metal pick, you can start gathering metal, but it is highly recommended to use a dinosaur to carry the metal for you. Ankylosaurus is the best dinosaur for gathering metal, as it has a high weight capacity and can harvest metal nodes much faster than a player. Other good options include the Argentavis, which can carry the Ankylosaurus to metal-rich areas, and the Doedicurus, which is excellent for gathering stone, another resource often found near metal nodes.

When venturing into metal-rich areas, preparation is key. Make sure you have enough food, water, and weapons to defend yourself against predators. It is also a good idea to bring a bed or sleeping bag so you can respawn nearby if you die. If you are playing solo, consider building a small outpost near the metal-rich area to store your resources and respawn if needed. For tribes, it is often more efficient to have one or two players gather metal while others defend or transport the resources back to the base.

One common mistake players make is not bringing enough carrying capacity. Metal is heavy, and you will quickly become encumbered if you are not using a dinosaur to carry it. Another mistake is not scouting the area before gathering metal. Predators can easily ambush you if you are not careful, so always keep an eye out for threats. Additionally, some players forget to bring a flyer like the Argentavis, which can make transporting metal much easier. Without a flyer, you may have to make multiple trips, which can be time-consuming and dangerous.

Advanced techniques for gathering metal include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport an Ankylosaurus to metal-rich areas. This allows you to gather metal quickly and efficiently without having to worry about predators. Another technique is to build a forge near the metal-rich area so you can smelt the metal on the spot, reducing the amount of weight you need to carry back to your base. For tribes, it is also possible to set up a mining operation with multiple Ankylosaurs and Argentavis, allowing you to gather large amounts of metal in a short amount of time.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a metal pick, a strong dinosaur like the Ankylosaurus, and a flyer like the Argentavis. You may also want to bring a Doedicurus for gathering stone, as it is often found near metal nodes. For tribes, it is a good idea to have a designated metal-gathering team with multiple dinosaurs and players to maximize efficiency.

In conclusion, finding and gathering metal on The Island map requires careful planning and preparation. The best locations are the mountains and hills, particularly the volcano, Frozen Tooth, and Far's Peak. Using the right tools and dinosaurs, such as the Ankylosaurus and Argentavis, will make the process much easier. Always be prepared for predators and consider building an outpost or using a Quetzal with a platform saddle for advanced techniques. By following these strategies, you can efficiently gather the metal you need to progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.