What are the best resources to gather in the Aberration mapÔÇÖs Red Zone in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Red Zone in Aberration is one of the most dangerous areas in ARK: Survival Evolved, but it is also one of the most resource-rich. This zone is filled with rare materials like metal, crystal, element shards, and gems, but it is also home to aggressive creatures like Reapers, Nameless, and Rock Drakes. To gather resources effectively in the Red Zone, you need to prepare thoroughly and understand the mechanics of the area.

First, you need to prepare your gear and tames. The Red Zone is highly radioactive, so you will need a Hazard Suit or a full set of Ghillie Armor combined with a Gas Mask to survive the radiation. Hazard Suits are more effective but require element shards to craft, which can be found in the Red Zone itself. If you donÔÇÖt have a Hazard Suit, Ghillie Armor and a Gas Mask will work temporarily, but you will need to monitor your health and radiation levels closely. Additionally, bring a strong light source like a Charge Lantern or a shoulder-mounted light pet such as a Bulbdog or Shinehorn. These are essential because the Nameless will spawn in the dark, and they can quickly overwhelm you if youÔÇÖre not prepared.

For tames, a high-level Rock Drake is the best option for navigating the Red Zone. Rock Drakes can climb walls, glide, and are resistant to radiation, making them ideal for this environment. If you donÔÇÖt have a Rock Drake, a high-level Megalosaurus or a pack of Ravagers can also work, but they are less efficient and more vulnerable to the dangers of the Red Zone. Make sure your tames are well-leveled in health, stamina, and damage, as you will encounter aggressive creatures like Reapers and Nameless.

Once youÔÇÖre prepared, head to the Red Zone. The entrance is typically through the Element Falls or the Spine, but be cautious as these areas are heavily populated with dangerous creatures. Use your Rock Drake to climb walls and avoid ground-level threats. When gathering resources, prioritize metal nodes, crystal formations, and element shards. Metal nodes are abundant and can be found on walls and cliffs, while crystal formations are scattered throughout the area. Element shards are rarer and often found near the edges of the Element River or in the deeper parts of the Red Zone.

One common mistake is underestimating the Nameless. These creatures spawn in the dark and can quickly overwhelm you if youÔÇÖre not careful. Always keep your light source active and avoid lingering in dark areas for too long. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. The Red Zone is far from most bases, so bring extra food, water, and medical brews to sustain yourself during long resource-gathering trips.

For advanced techniques, consider setting up a small outpost near the Red Zone entrance. This can serve as a respawn point and a storage area for resources. Use a Climbing Pick to create a hidden base on a cliff or wall, making it harder for hostile creatures to reach you. Additionally, use a Tek Shield or a series of Plant Species Z to create a safe zone where you can retreat if things get too dangerous.

Resource requirements for this endeavor include Hazard Suit materials, a strong light source, and high-level tames. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other from threats. Solo players should focus on stealth and mobility, using their Rock Drake to avoid direct confrontations.

In summary, gathering resources in the Red Zone requires careful preparation, strong tames, and constant vigilance. Prioritize metal, crystal, and element shards, and always keep your light source active to fend off Nameless. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating the dangers or not bringing enough supplies. With the right strategy, the Red Zone can become a valuable source of rare materials for your survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.