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 requires careful planning and preparation to navigate effectively. This region is known for its extreme heat, dangerous predators, and valuable resources, making it a high-risk, high-reward location for players. To gather the best resources in the Badlands, you need to understand the mechanics of the area, prepare adequately, and employ smart strategies to maximize efficiency and survival.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the key resources available in the Badlands. The area is rich in metal nodes, crystal, obsidian, and sulfur. Metal nodes are essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures, while crystal is used for electronics and other high-tier items. Obsidian is crucial for crafting polymer, and sulfur is a key ingredient for crafting explosives. These resources are scattered throughout the Badlands, often found on rocky outcrops and cliffs. However, the area is also home to dangerous creatures like Rock Elementals, Wyverns, and Carnotaurus, which can make resource gathering a challenging task.

To begin gathering resources in the Badlands, you need to prepare adequately. Start by crafting or acquiring a high-quality pickaxe or metal tools, as these will yield more resources per node. A strong mount is also essential for both transportation and protection. Ankylosaurus is an excellent choice for gathering metal and crystal, while a Doedicurus is ideal for stone. For obsidian, an Ankylosaurus is also effective. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider taming a high-level Argentavis, as it can carry heavy loads and provide aerial support. In a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to assign roles, such as one player gathering resources while others provide protection.

When entering the Badlands, always bring plenty of water and food to combat the extreme heat. Equip desert armor or other heat-resistant gear to reduce water consumption and prevent overheating. Bring a few water jars or a water skin to stay hydrated, as dehydration can quickly become a problem. Additionally, carry stimulants or stimberries to counteract the effects of heatstroke.

Once youÔÇÖre prepared, head to the Badlands and scout for resource nodes. Metal nodes are often found on rocky hillsides, while crystal nodes are typically located on cliffs or high ground. Obsidian can be found in similar locations, often mixed with metal nodes. Sulfur is usually found in the form of yellow rocks scattered across the ground. Use your mount to gather these resources efficiently, but always stay alert for predators. Rock Elementals, in particular, can be deadly if youÔÇÖre not careful. They are slow but deal massive damage, so keep your distance and avoid aggroing them.

A common mistake players make is overloading their mounts with resources, which slows them down and makes them vulnerable to attacks. To avoid this, regularly transfer resources to your inventory or a nearby storage container. If youÔÇÖre using an Argentavis, take advantage of its weight reduction for certain resources like metal and obsidian. This allows you to carry more without being overburdened.

Advanced techniques for resource gathering in the Badlands include setting up a small outpost or temporary base near the resource-rich areas. This allows you to store resources safely and reduce the need for frequent trips back to your main base. Use stone or metal structures to protect your outpost from predators and other players in PvP servers. Additionally, consider using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to create a mobile resource-gathering station. This allows you to transport large amounts of resources quickly and safely.

In terms of tribe considerations, communication and coordination are key. Assign roles to each tribe member, such as one player gathering resources, another providing protection, and a third managing logistics. Use voice chat or in-game messaging to stay in sync and respond quickly to threats. For solo players, focus on efficiency and safety. Always have an escape plan in case of an attack, and avoid engaging with dangerous creatures unless absolutely necessary.

In conclusion, gathering resources in the Badlands of Scorched Earth requires careful preparation, smart strategies, and constant vigilance. By understanding the mechanics of the area, preparing adequately, and employing advanced techniques, you can maximize your resource yield while minimizing risks. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or as part of a tribe, the Badlands offers a wealth of valuable resources for those willing to brave its dangers.