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

Locating the Artifact of the Lost in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful preparation and strategy. This artifact is one of the key items needed to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. The Artifact of the Lost is found in the Lower South Cave, also known as the Hunter Cave, located in the southern part of The Island map. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully retrieve this artifact.

The Lower South Cave is one of the easier caves in the game, but it still presents significant dangers, especially for unprepared players. The cave is filled with hostile creatures such as bats, spiders, and scorpions, which can quickly overwhelm you if you are not careful. The cave's layout is relatively straightforward, but it is dark and narrow in places, making navigation tricky. To prepare for this expedition, you will need a strong mount, good armor, weapons, and supplies.

First, you will need to gather the necessary resources and equipment. A good set of armor, such as chitin or flak armor, is essential to protect you from the cave's hostile creatures. You will also need weapons like a crossbow, pike, or shotgun to defend yourself. Bring plenty of ammunition, as well as healing items like medical brews or cooked meat to restore health. Torches or a mining helmet are crucial for lighting, as the cave is very dark. Additionally, bring grappling hooks and climbing picks to help navigate the cave's terrain.

For your mount, a high-level Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or Raptor is a good choice for this cave. These dinosaurs are fast and strong enough to handle the cave's creatures. Alternatively, a high-level Baryonyx is an excellent option due to its ability to attack while swimming, which can be useful in the cave's water sections. Make sure your mount has a good saddle to maximize its effectiveness.

Once you are prepared, head to the cave entrance located at approximately 68.1 latitude and 56.1 longitude on The Island map. The entrance is a small hole in the ground, so you will need to dismount and enter on foot. Inside, you will encounter bats, spiders, and scorpions almost immediately. Use your mount to clear these creatures, but be cautious of their attacks, as they can inflict torpor and poison.

As you progress through the cave, you will come to a series of narrow passages and water sections. The water is not deep, but it can slow you down and make you vulnerable to attacks. Use your mount to navigate these areas quickly and safely. Be prepared to fight off more creatures as you go. The cave's layout is relatively linear, but there are a few side passages that can lead to valuable loot or additional dangers.

The Artifact of the Lost is located in a chamber near the end of the cave. This chamber is guarded by a large number of creatures, so be ready for a tough fight. Clear the area with your mount and weapons, then approach the artifact. Interact with it to collect it, and then make your way back to the cave entrance. Be careful on your way out, as the creatures will respawn, and you may encounter more enemies.

One common mistake is underestimating the cave's dangers and going in unprepared. Even though the Lower South Cave is considered one of the easier caves, it can still be deadly if you are not properly equipped. Another mistake is not bringing enough healing items or ammunition, which can leave you vulnerable in the middle of a fight. Always overprepare when entering a cave, as it is better to have too much than not enough.

For advanced players, using a Baryonyx or other aquatic mount can make the cave much easier to navigate. These mounts can handle both land and water sections effectively, giving you an advantage over the cave's creatures. Additionally, using grappling hooks and climbing picks can help you bypass difficult terrain and avoid unnecessary fights.

In terms of tribe considerations, going with a group can make the cave much easier to handle. One player can focus on clearing enemies while another collects the artifact. However, solo players can still succeed with proper preparation and strategy. Make sure to communicate with your tribe if you are playing in a group, and coordinate your efforts to maximize efficiency.

In conclusion, retrieving the Artifact of the Lost requires careful preparation, strong equipment, and a good mount. The Lower South Cave is filled with dangers, but with the right strategy, you can successfully navigate it and claim the artifact. Always be prepared for the unexpected, and don't hesitate to retreat if things get too dangerous. With these tips and strategies, you will be well on your way to summoning the Broodmother Lysrix and progressing in ARK: Survival Evolved.