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

The Aberration map in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging and unique environments in the game, and its Surface biome is no exception. The Surface is a dangerous area that is only accessible during specific times of the day, as it becomes uninhabitable due to extreme radiation during the night. However, it is also one of the best places to gather rare and valuable resources. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to effectively gather resources on the Surface, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The Surface biome is located at the top of the map, and it is divided into several zones. During the day, the Surface is relatively safe, but at night, it becomes irradiated, dealing massive damage to players and tamed creatures that are not protected by Hazard Suits or other radiation-resistant gear. The primary resources you can gather on the Surface include Element Ore, Red Gems, Blue Gems, and Metal. These resources are essential for advanced crafting and progression in Aberration.

To gather resources on the Surface, you need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a Hazard Suit or a set of Radiation-resistant armor. The Hazard Suit is the best option as it provides full protection against radiation and environmental hazards. You will also need a strong mount, such as a Rock Drake or a Karkinos, to navigate the terrain and carry resources. Rock Drakes are particularly useful because they can climb walls and glide, allowing you to access hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, bring a high-damage weapon, such as a shotgun or a longneck rifle, to defend yourself against the aggressive creatures that inhabit the Surface, such as Reapers and Nameless.

The best time to gather resources on the Surface is during the day when the radiation levels are low. You can check the time of day by looking at the sky or using a timer. Once you arrive at the Surface, focus on gathering Element Ore, which is found in large, glowing rocks. These rocks are scattered across the Surface and can be mined using a high-quality pickaxe or a mining drill. Red Gems and Blue Gems are also abundant on the Surface and are essential for crafting advanced items like charge batteries and light pets. Metal nodes are plentiful as well, and they can be harvested for large amounts of metal.

One common mistake players make is venturing onto the Surface without proper preparation. Without a Hazard Suit or radiation-resistant gear, you will quickly succumb to the radiation at night. Another mistake is underestimating the creatures on the Surface. Reapers and Nameless are extremely dangerous, and you should always be ready to fight or escape if necessary. Additionally, players often forget to bring a strong mount, which can make resource gathering much more difficult and time-consuming.

Advanced techniques for resource gathering on the Surface include using a Karkinos to carry large amounts of resources or a Rock Drake to quickly navigate the terrain and escape danger. You can also set up a small, temporary base near the Surface entrance to store resources and repair your gear. This base should be well-defended and equipped with turrets to deter hostile creatures. Another optimization is to use a mining drill, which can harvest resources much faster than a pickaxe. However, mining drills require fuel, so make sure to bring plenty of gasoline.

Resource requirements for Surface expeditions include Hazard Suit materials, such as polymer, cementing paste, and electronics, as well as ammunition for your weapons. You should also bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies to sustain yourself during the trip. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks, such as gathering resources, defending against creatures, and transporting items back to your base. Solo players should focus on efficiency and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

Specific examples of resource-rich areas on the Surface include the large open zones near the edges of the map, where Element Ore and gem nodes are abundant. These areas are also frequented by Reapers, so be prepared for combat. Another example is the central plateau, which has a high concentration of metal nodes and is relatively safe during the day. However, always be cautious and ready to retreat if the radiation levels start to rise.

In conclusion, gathering resources on the Surface in Aberration requires careful preparation, strong mounts, and effective strategies. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can efficiently harvest valuable resources and progress in the game. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the Surface offers some of the best resources in Aberration, making it a worthwhile challenge for experienced players.