Where can I find the artifact of the Skylord in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Artifact of the Skylord is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, required for summoning the Dragon boss on The Island map. It is located in the North West Cave, also known as the Skylord Cave, which is situated in the northwest region of the map, near the coast. This cave is known for its challenging environment, including narrow pathways, dangerous creatures, and environmental hazards. Below is a detailed guide on how to obtain the Artifact of the Skylord, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

To begin, you need to prepare adequately for the cave. The North West Cave is one of the more difficult caves in the game due to its tight spaces, high-level creatures, and the presence of Arthropluera, which can spit acid and damage your armor. You will need a strong mount that can navigate tight spaces, such as a Sabertooth, Thylacoleo, or a pack of Direwolves. These creatures are agile and can handle the cave's terrain and enemies effectively. Alternatively, if you have access to a high-level Baryonyx, it can be a great choice due to its ability to stun smaller creatures with its tail spin attack.

Before entering the cave, ensure you have the necessary gear. Bring a good set of armor, preferably flak armor, as it provides solid protection against the cave's threats. Carry a ranged weapon like a crossbow or a shotgun for dealing with enemies from a distance, as well as a melee weapon like a pike or sword for close combat. Bring plenty of medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount during the journey. Additionally, bring grappling hooks and climbing picks, as they can help you navigate tricky sections of the cave.

The entrance to the North West Cave is located at approximately 19.1 latitude and 19.0 longitude. The cave is marked by a large rock formation with a narrow opening. Once inside, you will encounter a series of tunnels filled with hostile creatures such as Onyc, Arthropluera, and Titanoboas. These creatures can be dangerous, especially in large numbers, so proceed cautiously. Use your mount to clear out enemies, and dismount only when necessary to avoid being overwhelmed.

As you progress through the cave, you will come across several tight passages and drops. Be careful when navigating these areas, as falling can result in significant damage or even death. Use your grappling hook to cross gaps or climb up ledges if needed. The cave also has water sections, so be prepared to swim if your mount cannot handle water. A Baryonyx is particularly useful here, as it can swim and attack underwater creatures effectively.

The Artifact of the Skylord is located deep within the cave, near the end of the main tunnel. You will need to navigate through a series of twists and turns, fighting off enemies along the way. Once you reach the artifact chamber, you will find the Artifact of the Skylord on a pedestal. Be cautious, as this area is often guarded by high-level creatures. Clear the area before attempting to retrieve the artifact.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the cave's difficulty. The North West Cave is not a place to rush into unprepared. Ensure you have a strong mount, good gear, and plenty of supplies before attempting the cave. Another mistake is not bringing enough healing items. The cave's enemies can deal significant damage, and you will need to heal frequently to survive.

For advanced players, consider using a Cryopod to bring a larger mount into the cave. While the cave is tight, some larger creatures like the Thylacoleo or Baryonyx can still be useful if deployed strategically. Additionally, using a grappling hook to bypass certain sections of the cave can save time and reduce the risk of encountering enemies.

In terms of tribe considerations, going solo is possible but challenging. If you are in a tribe, consider bringing a teammate to help clear enemies and provide backup. A well-coordinated team can make the cave much easier to navigate. For solo players, focus on using a strong mount and taking your time to clear enemies carefully.

In conclusion, obtaining the Artifact of the Skylord requires careful preparation, a strong mount, and a cautious approach. The North West Cave is a dangerous place, but with the right strategy and gear, you can successfully retrieve the artifact and progress toward summoning the Dragon boss. Always be prepared for the unexpected, and don't hesitate to retreat if the situation becomes too dangerous. Good luck, survivor.