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

The Artifact of the Cunning is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, required for summoning the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. It is located in the Central Cave, also known as the Lower South Cave, on The Island map. Obtaining this artifact involves navigating a dangerous cave system filled with hostile creatures, environmental hazards, and tight spaces. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to find and retrieve the Artifact of the Cunning, including preparation, strategies, and tips for success.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. The Central Cave is a relatively small but treacherous cave located in the southern part of The Island. It is filled with creatures like Araneo (giant spiders), Titanoboa, and Onyc (bats), which can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. The cave also features narrow pathways, low ceilings, and areas with reduced visibility, making it challenging to navigate. The Artifact of the Cunning is located deep within the cave, requiring players to traverse these hazards to reach it.

To prepare for this expedition, youÔÇÖll need the right equipment and resources. Bring a strong mount, such as a Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a pack of Direwolves, as they can handle the caveÔÇÖs creatures effectively. Alternatively, a high-level Baryonyx is an excellent choice due to its agility and ability to attack while swimming, which is useful for crossing water sections in the cave. Equip your mount with a saddle for added protection. For solo players, a good set of armor, weapons like a crossbow or shotgun, and plenty of ammunition are essential. Bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount during the journey. Torches or a mining helmet are recommended for visibility, as the cave is dark.

When entering the Central Cave, start by heading northeast from the cave entrance. The path will lead you through narrow tunnels and open chambers filled with hostile creatures. Use your mount to clear out enemies, but be cautious of tight spaces where larger mounts might get stuck. If youÔÇÖre on foot, use ranged weapons to take out enemies from a distance, especially Titanoboa, which can inflict torpor and knock you out. As you progress, youÔÇÖll encounter water sections. If youÔÇÖre using a Baryonyx, it can easily swim through these areas. Otherwise, dismount and swim carefully, as the water is home to Piranha and other threats.

The Artifact of the Cunning is located in a chamber near the end of the cave. Look for a glowing pedestal with the artifact resting on top. Be prepared for a final wave of enemies guarding the artifact. Clear them out before attempting to retrieve it. Once you have the artifact, make your way back to the entrance. Be mindful of respawning creatures, as they can ambush you on your return trip.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the caveÔÇÖs dangers and entering unprepared. Always bring sufficient supplies and a strong mount. Avoid using large dinosaurs like Rexes or Spinos, as they will get stuck in the caveÔÇÖs narrow passages. Another mistake is rushing through the cave without clearing enemies, which can lead to being overwhelmed. Take your time and methodically clear each area.

Advanced techniques include using grappling hooks to navigate tricky sections or to escape dangerous situations. If youÔÇÖre playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover each other and share resources. For solo players, consider taming a high-level Baryonyx specifically for cave exploration, as it is one of the most versatile mounts for this purpose.

Resource requirements include weapons, armor, healing items, and tools for navigation. Bring extra supplies in case the expedition takes longer than expected. For tribes, assign roles such as a scout, healer, and fighter to optimize your teamÔÇÖs efficiency.

In summary, retrieving the Artifact of the Cunning requires careful preparation, a strong mount, and a methodical approach to navigating the Central Cave. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully obtain the artifact and progress toward summoning the Broodmother Lysrix. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, this challenge is a rewarding step in your ARK journey.