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

The Badlands in the Scorched Earth map of ARK: Survival Evolved is a harsh and resource-rich area that offers a variety of valuable materials. However, it is also one of the most dangerous regions due to the presence of aggressive creatures like Rock Elementals, Wyverns, and other predators. Gathering resources here requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather resources in the Badlands, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The Badlands is primarily known for its abundance of metal, crystal, and obsidian. These resources are essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. Metal nodes are scattered throughout the rocky terrain, often appearing as large, dark boulders. Crystal nodes are shiny and can be found on cliffs or rocky outcrops. Obsidian nodes are black and glassy, typically located in higher elevations or near volcanic areas. To gather these resources, you will need a metal pickaxe or a high-level dinosaur with good harvesting capabilities, such as an Ankylosaurus for metal and obsidian, or a Doedicurus for stone.

Before venturing into the Badlands, it is crucial to prepare adequately. Ensure you have a strong mount, preferably a high-level Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a Wyvern if you have one. These creatures can help you fend off predators and carry heavy loads of resources. Equip yourself with a good set of armor, preferably flak armor, and bring plenty of water and food, as the heat in the Badlands can quickly drain your stamina and health. Additionally, carry a few bolas and a ranged weapon like a crossbow or longneck rifle to deal with smaller threats like Raptors or Terror Birds.

When gathering resources, always be aware of your surroundings. The Badlands is teeming with dangerous creatures, so it is essential to scout the area before settling in to harvest. Use your mount to clear out any nearby threats, and try to stay on high ground to avoid being ambushed. If you encounter a Rock Elemental, it is best to avoid it unless you are well-prepared with a high-level mount and strong weapons. Rock Elementals are extremely tough and can easily destroy your equipment and mounts if not handled carefully.

One common mistake players make is overloading their mounts with resources, which can slow them down and make it difficult to escape from danger. Always keep an eye on your mount's weight limit and consider bringing a second mount or a pack animal like a Paraceratherium to carry additional resources. Another mistake is not bringing enough water. The Badlands is extremely hot, and dehydration can quickly become a problem. Always carry a few water jars or a water skin, and consider building a small outpost with a water reservoir if you plan to stay in the area for an extended period.

For advanced players, optimizing resource gathering in the Badlands can involve using a Quetzal with a platform saddle. This allows you to transport an Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus to the resource nodes, making it easier to harvest large quantities of metal, crystal, and obsidian. Additionally, using a whip can help you gather resources more efficiently by knocking them off the nodes without having to dismount. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinating with your teammates to protect each other while gathering resources can significantly increase your efficiency and safety.

In terms of resource management, it is important to prioritize what you need most. Metal is essential for crafting advanced tools and weapons, while crystal is needed for electronics and other high-tech items. Obsidian is used in crafting polymer and other advanced materials. Plan your trips to the Badlands based on what resources you need, and try to gather as much as possible in one trip to minimize the risk of encountering dangerous creatures.

Finally, always have an escape plan. The Badlands is a dangerous place, and things can go wrong quickly. Make sure you have a clear path back to your base or a safe location, and be ready to flee if necessary. If you are playing solo, consider building a small, fortified outpost near the Badlands to store your resources and provide a safe haven in case of emergencies.

In conclusion, gathering resources in the Badlands of Scorched Earth requires careful preparation, awareness, and efficient use of tools and mounts. By following these strategies and tips, you can maximize your resource gathering while minimizing the risks associated with this dangerous region. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, the Badlands offers a wealth of valuable materials that can help you progress and thrive in ARK: Survival Evolved.