How do I locate the artifact of the Strong in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating the Artifact of the Strong in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful preparation and strategy. This artifact is one of the key items needed to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. The Artifact of the Strong is located in the Caverns of Lost Faith, an underwater cave on The Island map. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully retrieve this artifact.

First, let's discuss the mechanics involved. The Caverns of Lost Faith is an underwater cave system filled with dangerous creatures such as Megalodons, Electrophorus, and Cnidaria. The cave is dark, and navigating it requires proper equipment and preparation. The artifact itself is located deep within the cave, often guarded by hostile creatures. You will need to be well-equipped to handle the threats and navigate the underwater environment.

To begin, you will need to prepare the necessary resources and equipment. A strong underwater mount is essential. The Basilosaurus is highly recommended due to its immunity to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus. Alternatively, a high-level Megalodon or a well-bred Baryonyx can also be effective. You will also need scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. Bring a good supply of medical brews and food to sustain yourself during the journey. Additionally, consider bringing a few cryopods with backup creatures in case your primary mount is incapacitated.

Next, let's go through the step-by-step process. Start by heading to the coordinates 68.7, 56.1, which is the entrance to the Caverns of Lost Faith. This entrance is located underwater, so you will need to dive down to find it. Once inside, follow the cave's natural path, being cautious of the tight spaces and sharp turns. The cave is relatively linear, but it can be easy to get disoriented due to the darkness and the presence of hostile creatures.

As you progress deeper into the cave, you will encounter various threats. Megalodons are common and can deal significant damage if not dealt with quickly. Electrophorus can stun you and your mount, making you vulnerable to other attacks. Cnidaria are particularly dangerous as they can dismount you, leaving you stranded in the water. Use your mount's attacks to clear a path, and avoid lingering in one spot for too long.

The Artifact of the Strong is located in a large chamber towards the end of the cave. This chamber is often guarded by a group of hostile creatures, so be prepared for a fight. Once you have cleared the area, you can approach the artifact and collect it. Be sure to have enough inventory space, as the artifact will take up a slot.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, always be aware of your oxygen levels. Running out of air in the middle of the cave can be fatal. Use your scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your breathing time. Second, avoid engaging every creature you encounter. Sometimes it is better to swim past them and conserve your resources for the final chamber. Third, make sure your mount is well-fed and healed before entering the cave. A weakened mount can quickly become a liability.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the cave's dangers and not bringing enough supplies. Many players make the mistake of entering the cave without proper preparation, only to find themselves overwhelmed by the hostile creatures. Another common mistake is not having a backup plan. If your primary mount is killed, having a cryopod with a backup creature can save your life.

Advanced techniques and optimizations can make the process easier. For example, using a Baryonyx with high health and melee damage can allow you to quickly dispatch enemies and navigate the cave more efficiently. Additionally, using a GPS can help you keep track of your location and avoid getting lost. If you are playing with a tribe, coordinating with your teammates to cover different roles, such as healing and combat, can greatly increase your chances of success.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of food, medical brews, and possibly some armor repair kits. If you are using scuba gear, make sure it is in good condition and has enough durability to last the entire trip. For solo players, the challenge is greater, but with proper preparation, it is entirely possible to retrieve the artifact on your own.

Specific examples and scenarios can help illustrate the process. For instance, imagine you are playing solo with a Basilosaurus. You enter the cave and immediately encounter a group of Megalodons. Using your Basilosaurus's high health and damage output, you quickly dispatch them and continue deeper into the cave. As you progress, you encounter a Cnidaria that dismounts you. Fortunately, you have a cryopod with a backup Baryonyx, which you deploy to continue the journey. Finally, you reach the artifact chamber, clear the remaining threats, and successfully retrieve the Artifact of the Strong.

In conclusion, locating the Artifact of the Strong in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but achievable task with the right preparation and strategy. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully navigate the Caverns of Lost Faith, overcome its dangers, and retrieve the artifact. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, careful planning and resource management are key to your success.