What are the safest routes to gather obsidian in the Volcano region in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering obsidian in the Volcano region of ARK: Survival Evolved can be a challenging but rewarding task. Obsidian is a crucial resource for crafting advanced items like polymer, electronics, and certain structures. The Volcano region is one of the best places to farm obsidian, but it is also one of the most dangerous due to the presence of hostile creatures, extreme temperatures, and the risk of falling into lava. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to safely gather obsidian in this area.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Obsidian nodes are large, black, glassy rocks that are found primarily in mountainous regions, with the Volcano being one of the richest sources. To harvest obsidian, you need tools like a metal pick or an Ankylosaurus. The Ankylosaurus is particularly efficient because it can gather large amounts of obsidian quickly and has high weight reduction for this resource. However, using a pick is also viable if you donÔÇÖt have access to an Ankylosaurus.

Before heading to the Volcano, preparation is key. You will need a strong mount, preferably a flying one like an Argentavis or a Quetzal, to carry the obsidian and navigate the treacherous terrain. The Argentavis is a good choice because it has decent weight capacity and can carry smaller creatures like the Ankylosaurus. You should also bring a good set of armor, preferably flak or better, to protect against the heat and potential attacks from creatures. Additionally, bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies to sustain yourself.

When approaching the Volcano, itÔÇÖs important to scout the area first. Fly around the perimeter to identify the safest landing spots and the locations of obsidian nodes. The safest routes are usually along the outer edges of the Volcano, where the terrain is less steep and there are fewer hostile creatures. Avoid landing near the lava flows or in areas with high concentrations of predators like Carnotaurus or Raptors.

Once youÔÇÖve identified a safe landing spot, dismount and start gathering obsidian. If youÔÇÖre using an Ankylosaurus, position it near the obsidian nodes and use its tail attack to harvest the resource. Be mindful of its weight limit, as obsidian is heavy. If youÔÇÖre using a pick, make sure to keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to defend yourself or retreat if necessary.

One common mistake is overloading your mount or yourself with too much obsidian, which can slow you down and make it difficult to escape if youÔÇÖre attacked. Always monitor your weight and make multiple trips if needed. Another mistake is not being prepared for the heat. The Volcano region can be extremely hot, so wearing desert armor or using items like the Otters or the Tek HelmetÔÇÖs climate control can help mitigate the effects.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport an Ankylosaurus directly to the obsidian nodes. This allows you to gather large amounts of obsidian quickly and safely, as you can stay mounted on the Quetzal while the Ankylosaurus does the harvesting. Another optimization is to build a small outpost near the Volcano with storage boxes and a bed. This allows you to store your obsidian and respawn nearby if you die.

For solo players, the key is to be cautious and methodical. Always have an escape plan and avoid taking unnecessary risks. For tribes, coordination is important. Assign roles, such as one player scouting and another gathering, to maximize efficiency and safety.

In summary, gathering obsidian in the Volcano region requires careful preparation, the right tools and mounts, and a strategic approach. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can safely and efficiently gather this valuable resource. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, the Volcano offers a rich source of obsidian that can significantly aid in your progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.