What are the best resources to gather in the Scorched Earth mapÔÇÖs Dunes in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Dunes biome in the Scorched Earth map of ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most dangerous yet resource-rich areas in the game. It is a vast desert region filled with hostile creatures like Deathworms, Wyverns, and aggressive predators such as Raptors and Carnotaurus. However, it is also home to some of the most valuable resources, making it a prime location for advanced players. Gathering resources in the Dunes requires careful planning, preparation, and execution due to the harsh environment and constant threats.

One of the most important resources in the Dunes is metal. Metal nodes are scattered throughout the biome, often found near rocky outcrops or cliffs. These nodes are essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. To gather metal efficiently, you will need a high-quality metal pickaxe or a dinosaur with high melee damage, such as an Ankylosaurus. The Ankylosaurus is particularly effective because it can harvest large amounts of metal in a short time and has a weight reduction for metal, allowing you to carry more. When using an Ankylosaurus, make sure to level its melee damage and weight capacity to maximize efficiency.

Another valuable resource in the Dunes is crystal. Crystal nodes are often found in the same areas as metal nodes, typically on higher ground or near cliffs. Crystal is crucial for crafting advanced electronics, spyglasses, and other high-tier items. To gather crystal, you can use a metal pickaxe or a dinosaur like the Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus. The Doedicurus is especially useful for gathering stone, which is often found alongside crystal nodes, making it a versatile choice for resource gathering in the Dunes.

Oil is another key resource in the Dunes, primarily found in the form of oil nodes or by harvesting certain creatures like Trilobites or Basilosaurus. Oil is essential for crafting gasoline, which powers generators, fabricators, and other advanced machinery. In the Dunes, oil nodes are often located near water sources or in the deeper parts of the desert. To gather oil, you can use a metal pickaxe or a dinosaur like the Dunkleosteus, which is highly efficient at harvesting oil from nodes.

One of the most unique resources in the Dunes is sulfur. Sulfur nodes are found in the desert and are essential for crafting gunpowder, which is used in ammunition and explosives. Sulfur can be gathered using a metal pickaxe or a dinosaur like the Ankylosaurus. However, sulfur nodes are often located in dangerous areas, so it is important to be cautious and prepared for combat when gathering this resource.

When gathering resources in the Dunes, it is crucial to be prepared for the harsh environment and constant threats. The Dunes are extremely hot during the day, so you will need to bring plenty of water and wear desert-specific armor like the Desert Cloth Armor to reduce heatstroke. Additionally, the Dunes are home to dangerous creatures like Deathworms, which can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. To avoid these threats, it is recommended to travel with a strong combat dinosaur like a Rex or a Wyvern. These dinosaurs can provide protection and help you fend off attackers while you gather resources.

One common mistake players make when gathering resources in the Dunes is underestimating the dangers of the environment. The heat can quickly drain your health and stamina, and the aggressive creatures can catch you off guard if you are not paying attention. To avoid this, always bring plenty of water, food, and medical supplies. It is also a good idea to set up a small outpost or base near the Dunes to store resources and provide a safe retreat if needed.

Advanced players can optimize their resource gathering by using a Quetzal or Argentavis to transport large amounts of resources quickly. These flying dinosaurs can carry heavy loads and provide a safe way to transport resources back to your main base. Additionally, using a mining drill can significantly increase your resource gathering efficiency, but it requires gasoline and a reliable power source, so it is best used in a well-established base.

For solo players, gathering resources in the Dunes can be challenging due to the high level of danger. It is recommended to focus on smaller, safer areas and avoid venturing too deep into the desert without a strong combat dinosaur. Tribe players, on the other hand, can divide tasks, with some members gathering resources while others provide protection. This teamwork can make resource gathering in the Dunes much more efficient and safer.

In conclusion, the Dunes biome in Scorched Earth is a high-risk, high-reward area for resource gathering. By using the right dinosaurs, preparing for the environment, and staying vigilant against threats, you can efficiently gather valuable resources like metal, crystal, oil, and sulfur. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, careful planning and execution are key to surviving and thriving in this dangerous yet resource-rich region.