How do I locate the artifact of the Brute in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating the Artifact of the Brute in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful preparation, exploration, and combat readiness. The Artifact of the Brute is one of the key artifacts needed to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. It is found in the Caverns of Lost Faith, a cave system located on the western side of The Island map. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully locate and retrieve this artifact.

The Caverns of Lost Faith is an underwater cave, which means you will need to prepare for underwater exploration. This cave is home to dangerous creatures such as Megalodons, Electrophorus, and Cnidaria, so you must be equipped to handle these threats. Before entering the cave, ensure you have a strong underwater mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a high-level Megalodon. Basilosaurus is particularly recommended because it is immune to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Electrophorus, making it easier to navigate the cave safely. Additionally, bring scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your oxygen supply, as the cave is deep and requires prolonged underwater travel.

To reach the Caverns of Lost Faith, head to the western coast of The Island, near coordinates 19.1 latitude and 85.7 longitude. The cave entrance is underwater and marked by a large rock formation. Once inside, follow the cave's winding paths, being cautious of tight spaces and aggressive creatures. The artifact is located in a chamber deep within the cave, so you will need to navigate through multiple tunnels and chambers to reach it. Use your mount to clear out any hostile creatures along the way, and avoid getting dismounted, as this can leave you vulnerable to attacks.

Preparation is key to successfully retrieving the Artifact of the Brute. Before entering the cave, stock up on healing items, such as Medical Brews or Cooked Meat, to restore health if you take damage. Bring weapons like a Crossbow or Harpoon Launcher for ranged combat, as well as a Pike or Sword for close-quarters fighting. Additionally, pack a few Grappling Hooks in case you need to escape quickly or recover from a dismount. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a few extra supplies, as you won't have tribe members to assist you in case of emergencies.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of the cave's inhabitants. Electrophorus, for example, can drain your stamina and dismount you, leaving you vulnerable to other predators. To avoid this, keep your distance from Electrophorus and use ranged weapons to take them out before they get too close. Another mistake is not bringing enough oxygen supplies, which can lead to drowning if you get lost or delayed in the cave. Always double-check your gear before entering to ensure you have enough oxygen and stamina-boosting items.

For advanced players, consider breeding and imprinting a high-level Basilosaurus for the cave run. An imprinted Basilosaurus will have increased stats and better survivability, making the journey easier. Additionally, you can use a Cryopod to bring a backup mount in case your primary mount is killed or incapacitated. If you are playing with a tribe, coordinate roles before entering the cave. For example, one player can focus on clearing enemies while another handles navigation and artifact retrieval.

Resource management is crucial for this task. Ensure you have enough materials to repair your gear and weapons, as the cave's creatures can cause significant damage. Bring a few extra sets of scuba gear in case one gets destroyed. If you are playing solo, consider setting up a small outpost near the cave entrance with a bed and storage box. This will allow you to respawn and restock if you die during the attempt.

In summary, locating the Artifact of the Brute requires careful preparation, a strong underwater mount, and combat readiness. Navigate the Caverns of Lost Faith cautiously, clear out hostile creatures, and retrieve the artifact from its chamber. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating the cave's dangers or running out of oxygen. Use advanced techniques like breeding imprinted mounts or coordinating with tribe members to optimize your chances of success. With the right preparation and strategy, you can successfully retrieve the Artifact of the Brute and progress toward summoning the Broodmother Lysrix.