Where are the best locations to find and farm rare resources like element shards in the Extinction map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, the Extinction map is unique for its post-apocalyptic setting and the availability of rare resources like element shards. Element shards are a crucial resource used to craft element, which is essential for advanced technology and tek-tier items. To efficiently farm element shards, you need to understand the mechanics, prepare adequately, and follow proven strategies.

Element shards are primarily found in the wasteland biome and the city biome of the Extinction map. They are dropped by corrupted creatures, which are hostile and aggressive. These creatures include corrupted dinosaurs like rexes, trikes, and raptors, as well as corrupted wyverns and other corrupted variants. The best way to farm element shards is by killing these corrupted creatures, as they drop shards upon death. Additionally, element shards can be found in orbital supply drops, which are special drops that appear in the wasteland biome and require defending against waves of corrupted creatures.

To begin farming element shards, you need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a strong and well-equipped dinosaur. A high-level rex, giga, or other powerful carnivore is ideal for taking down corrupted creatures. Equip your dinosaur with a good saddle to reduce damage taken. You should also bring along a flyer, such as an argentavis or wyvern, to help transport resources and provide mobility. Additionally, carry plenty of healing items like cooked meat or custom consumables to keep your dinosaur healthy during battles.

When farming element shards, focus on the wasteland biome, as it has the highest concentration of corrupted creatures. Start by locating a group of corrupted creatures and engage them one at a time to avoid being overwhelmed. Use your dinosaur's attacks to quickly dispatch the corrupted creatures and collect the element shards they drop. Be cautious of corrupted wyverns, as they are particularly dangerous and can deal significant damage. If you encounter a corrupted wyvern, try to lure it to a safe area where you can fight it without attracting additional enemies.

Orbital supply drops are another excellent source of element shards. These drops appear in the wasteland biome and require defending against waves of corrupted creatures. To successfully defend an orbital supply drop, you need a strong team or a well-prepared solo setup. Bring multiple dinosaurs and position them strategically around the drop to fend off incoming waves. Once the waves are cleared, you can access the drop and collect the element shards and other valuable resources inside.

One common mistake to avoid is underestimating the strength of corrupted creatures. They are more powerful than their regular counterparts and can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Always ensure your dinosaur is fully healed and ready for battle before engaging corrupted creatures. Another mistake is neglecting to bring a flyer, which can make transporting resources and escaping dangerous situations much easier.

Advanced techniques for farming element shards include using a tek rifle or tek saddle to deal extra damage to corrupted creatures. These tek-tier items are highly effective but require element to craft and use, so they are best suited for late-game players. Additionally, consider setting up a small outpost near the wasteland biome to store resources and provide a safe haven during farming sessions.

Resource requirements for farming element shards include a strong dinosaur, healing items, and possibly tek-tier equipment. If you are playing solo, focus on building a powerful dinosaur and bringing along a flyer for mobility. In a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to defend orbital supply drops and share resources efficiently.

In summary, farming element shards in the Extinction map involves killing corrupted creatures and defending orbital supply drops. Prepare with strong dinosaurs, healing items, and possibly tek-tier equipment. Focus on the wasteland biome for the best results, and avoid common mistakes like underestimating corrupted creatures or neglecting to bring a flyer. With proper preparation and strategy, you can efficiently farm element shards and progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.