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

The Artifact of the Hunter is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, required to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. It is located in the Hunter's Cave, also known as the Lower South Cave, on The Island map. This cave is one of the easier caves to navigate, but it still presents challenges, especially for unprepared players. Below is a detailed guide on how to find and retrieve the Artifact of the Hunter, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The Hunter's Cave is located in the southern part of The Island, near the coordinates 80.2 latitude and 53.5 longitude. The entrance is relatively easy to spot, as it is a large opening in a cliffside. However, the cave itself is filled with hostile creatures such as bats, spiders, and scorpions, which can quickly overwhelm an unprepared survivor. The cave is also dark, so bringing a light source like a torch or a flashlight is essential.

To prepare for the cave, you will need a few key items. First, bring a strong weapon like a shotgun or a crossbow, as well as plenty of ammunition. Armor is also important, with chitin or flak armor being the best options for protection. Bring medical supplies like stimulants and health potions to counteract the effects of poison from spiders and scorpions. A grappling hook can be useful for navigating tricky sections of the cave, and a pickaxe or hatchet will help you gather resources like crystal and chitin along the way.

One of the most important considerations is the choice of dinosaur to bring into the cave. While smaller creatures like raptors or sabertooths can fit, they may struggle against the large number of enemies. A strong mount like a Carnotaurus or a pack of direwolves can make the journey much easier. However, be aware that some sections of the cave are narrow, so larger dinosaurs may have difficulty navigating. If you are playing solo, a high-level direwolf or sabertooth is a good choice, as they are fast and deal significant damage. In a tribe, you can coordinate with teammates to bring a mix of dinosaurs for both combat and utility.

Once inside the cave, follow the main path, which will lead you deeper into the cavern. Be cautious of the narrow ledges and drops, as falling can result in significant damage or even death. The cave is filled with hostile creatures, so clear out enemies as you go to avoid being overwhelmed. The Artifact of the Hunter is located in a chamber near the end of the cave, guarded by a group of high-level creatures. Use your weapons and dinosaurs to clear the area before attempting to retrieve the artifact.

A common mistake is underestimating the number of enemies in the cave. Even with a strong dinosaur, you can quickly become surrounded and overwhelmed. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to retreat if necessary. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of ammunition or medical supplies in the middle of the cave can be disastrous, so always bring extra.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations you can make. Using a grappling hook to bypass certain sections of the cave can save time and reduce the risk of encountering enemies. Additionally, bringing a cryopod with a strong dinosaur can allow you to deploy it in tight spaces where larger mounts cannot fit. This can give you a significant advantage in combat.

In terms of resource management, the Hunter's Cave is a good source of chitin and crystal, which are valuable for crafting. Take the time to gather these resources while you are in the cave, but be mindful of your inventory space. The artifact itself does not take up much space, so prioritize carrying essential items like weapons and medical supplies.

Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, communication and preparation are key. In a tribe, assign roles to each member, such as one person focusing on combat while another gathers resources. Solo players should focus on efficiency and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Always have an escape plan in case things go wrong.

In conclusion, retrieving the Artifact of the Hunter requires careful preparation and strategy. By bringing the right equipment, dinosaurs, and supplies, you can navigate the Hunter's Cave and secure the artifact with minimal difficulty. Be mindful of the challenges and plan accordingly to ensure a successful mission.