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

Locating the Artifact of the Shadows in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task, as this artifact is essential for summoning the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. The Artifact of the Shadows is found in the Lower South Cave, also known as the Hunter Cave, located on The Island map. This cave is one of the easier ones to navigate, but it still presents significant dangers, especially for unprepared players. Below is a detailed guide on how to locate and retrieve the artifact, including mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

The Lower South Cave is situated in the southern part of The Island, near the coastline. Its coordinates are approximately 68.2 latitude and 56.1 longitude. The cave entrance is relatively small and can be easily missed if you are not paying attention. Once inside, you will encounter a series of narrow tunnels filled with hostile creatures such as bats, spiders, and scorpions. These creatures can inflict torpor, which can knock you unconscious if you are not careful. The cave is also dark, so bringing a light source like a torch or a flashlight attachment for your weapon is highly recommended.

To prepare for this cave, you will need a few essential items. First, bring a good set of armor, preferably chitin or better, to protect against the cave's creatures. A weapon like a pike or a shotgun is ideal for close-quarters combat. Additionally, bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself, as well as stimulants or stimberries to counteract torpor effects. If you are playing solo, consider taming a strong creature like a Sabertooth or a Carnotaurus to help you fight through the cave. These creatures are small enough to fit inside and can handle the enemies effectively. If you are in a tribe, coordinating with your teammates to bring multiple dinos or specialized roles, such as a healer or a tank, can make the process smoother.

When entering the cave, proceed cautiously. The narrow tunnels can make it difficult to maneuver, especially if you are riding a dinosaur. Dismounting and fighting on foot may be necessary in some areas. Be prepared to deal with swarms of bats and spiders, as they can overwhelm you if you are not careful. Use your weapon to clear a path, and keep an eye on your torpor levels. If you start to get too high, use stimulants immediately to avoid being knocked out.

The Artifact of the Shadows is located deep within the cave, near the end of the main tunnel. You will need to navigate through several twists and turns, and you may encounter dead ends or branching paths. Pay attention to your surroundings and use the cave's natural landmarks to guide you. The artifact is placed on a pedestal in a small chamber, usually guarded by a few additional creatures. Clear the area before attempting to retrieve the artifact.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the cave's difficulty. While the Lower South Cave is considered one of the easier caves, it can still be deadly if you are not prepared. Another mistake is bringing the wrong type of dinosaur. Large creatures like Rexes or Spinos cannot fit inside the cave, so choosing a smaller, more agile dino is crucial. Additionally, forgetting to bring a light source can make navigation nearly impossible, as the cave is pitch black in many areas.

For advanced players, optimizing your approach can save time and resources. Consider using a grappling hook to bypass certain sections of the cave or to escape dangerous situations. If you have access to cryopods, you can bring a strong dino like a Thylacoleo or a Baryonyx, which are excellent for cave exploration. These creatures can be cryopodded and deployed inside the cave, giving you a significant advantage. Additionally, using a scouting mount like a Dimorphodon can help you identify enemy locations and plan your route more effectively.

Resource management is also critical. Make sure to bring enough supplies to last the entire trip, as running out of healing items or ammunition can leave you vulnerable. If you are in a tribe, assign roles to each member to ensure efficient use of resources. For example, one player can focus on healing, while another handles combat.

In conclusion, locating the Artifact of the Shadows requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and effective execution. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully navigate the Lower South Cave, retrieve the artifact, and prepare for the challenges ahead. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, understanding the cave's mechanics and being well-equipped will greatly increase your chances of success. Good luck, and may your journey through ARK: Survival Evolved be a prosperous one.