What are the best strategies for farming metal in the Highlands on the Ragnarok map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming metal in the Highlands on the Ragnarok map in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most efficient ways to gather large amounts of metal early and mid-game. The Highlands biome is rich in metal nodes, which are scattered across the rocky hills and cliffs. To maximize your metal farming efficiency, you need to understand the mechanics, prepare properly, and use the right strategies.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics. Metal nodes in the Highlands are large, shiny rocks that yield a significant amount of metal when harvested. These nodes are often found in clusters, making the Highlands a prime location for metal farming. To harvest metal, you need tools like a metal pick or a dinosaur with high melee damage, such as an Ankylosaurus. The Ankylosaurus is the best dinosaur for farming metal because it has a weight reduction for metal and can gather large amounts quickly. Additionally, using a high-level Ankylosaurus with a good melee stat will significantly increase your metal yield.

To start farming metal in the Highlands, you need to prepare properly. First, ensure you have a strong and fast mount, such as an Argentavis or a Wyvern, to carry the Ankylosaurus or transport the metal. Argentavis is particularly useful because it can carry the Ankylosaurus in its talons, allowing you to fly to metal-rich areas quickly. You should also bring a few storage containers or a weight-reducing dinosaur like a Paraceratherium to help transport the metal back to your base. Additionally, bring tools like a metal pick and a hatchet for backup harvesting.

Once youÔÇÖre prepared, head to the Highlands. The best metal farming spots are located in the rocky hills near the coast and the cliffs surrounding the area. Look for clusters of metal nodes, which are easy to spot due to their shiny appearance. If youÔÇÖre using an Ankylosaurus, dismount and attack the metal nodes with its tail swing. The Ankylosaurus will gather metal quickly, and its weight reduction will allow you to carry more metal before becoming encumbered. If youÔÇÖre using an Argentavis, pick up the Ankylosaurus and fly it to each metal node, then drop it to harvest. This method is faster and safer, as it reduces the risk of encountering predators.

One important tip is to always be aware of your surroundings. The Highlands is home to dangerous creatures like Allosaurus, Carnotaurus, and even the occasional Giganotosaurus. These predators can easily kill you or your dinosaurs if youÔÇÖre not careful. Always keep an eye out for threats and be ready to flee or fight if necessary. Additionally, avoid farming metal at night unless you have a light source, as visibility is reduced, making it harder to spot dangers.

A common mistake players make is overloading their dinosaurs with metal. While the Ankylosaurus has a weight reduction for metal, it can still become encumbered if you gather too much. To avoid this, use a combination of dinosaurs for transportation. For example, use the Ankylosaurus to gather metal and the Argentavis or Paraceratherium to carry it back to your base. This way, you can maximize your metal haul without slowing down.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry the Ankylosaurus. This allows you to farm metal more efficiently, as the Quetzal can hover over metal nodes while the Ankylosaurus harvests them. Another optimization is to build a small outpost near the metal farming area. This outpost can include storage boxes, a bed for respawning, and a forge to smelt the metal on-site. This reduces the need to transport raw metal back to your main base, saving time and effort.

For solo players, the strategies remain the same, but youÔÇÖll need to be more cautious. Always have a plan for escaping dangerous situations, and consider taming a high-level Argentavis or Wyvern for added safety. For tribes, coordination is key. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person gathering metal with the Ankylosaurus and another transporting it with an Argentavis. This division of labor will make the process faster and more efficient.

In conclusion, farming metal in the Highlands on the Ragnarok map is a highly effective way to gather large amounts of metal. By using the right dinosaurs, preparing properly, and staying aware of your surroundings, you can maximize your metal yield and avoid common pitfalls. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you gather the resources you need to progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.