How do I navigate the dangerous underwater caves to find artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Navigating the dangerous underwater caves in ARK: Survival Evolved to find artifacts requires careful preparation, strategy, and understanding of the game mechanics. These caves are some of the most challenging areas in the game due to the hostile environment, limited oxygen, and aggressive creatures. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you successfully explore these caves and retrieve the artifacts.

First, you need to prepare for the underwater environment. Oxygen is a critical factor, so you must either have a high oxygen stat or use scuba gear. Scuba gear is highly recommended as it provides extended oxygen, reduces drowning damage, and improves underwater mobility. You can craft scuba gear using materials like polymer, cementing paste, and silica pearls. Additionally, bring Lazarus Chowder or Fria Curry to further boost your oxygen and temperature resistance. These consumables can be crafted using rare flowers, rare mushrooms, and other ingredients.

Next, you need a strong underwater mount. Taming a high-level Basilosaurus or a Tuso (Tusoteuthis) is ideal. The Basilosaurus is immune to the stun effects of jellyfish and electric eels, making it a safe choice for navigating dangerous waters. The Tuso, on the other hand, is a powerful predator that can handle most threats in the caves. If you donÔÇÖt have access to these creatures, a high-level Megalodon or Manta can also work, but they are more vulnerable to the caveÔÇÖs dangers.

Before entering the cave, stock up on essential supplies. Bring medical brews or custom consumables for healing, as well as stimulants to counteract torpor from jellyfish or other creatures. You should also carry a crossbow or harpoon gun with tranq arrows or spears to deal with aggressive creatures. A good set of flippers will improve your swimming speed, and a GPS or compass will help you navigate the caveÔÇÖs complex layout.

When entering the cave, proceed cautiously. Underwater caves are often dark, so bring a strong light source like a mining helmet or a glow pet. Keep an eye out for hostile creatures like Piranhas, Eels, and Jellyfish. These creatures can quickly overwhelm you if youÔÇÖre not careful. Use your mount to clear out threats before dismounting to explore narrow passages or collect resources.

One common mistake is underestimating the caveÔÇÖs layout. Many underwater caves have tight spaces and dead ends, so itÔÇÖs easy to get lost. Always mark your path or use the GPS to track your location. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of oxygen or healing items can be fatal, so always overprepare.

Advanced techniques include using cryopods to bring multiple mounts. For example, you can use a Basilosaurus for general exploration and a Tuso for combat. Cryopods allow you to switch mounts as needed without leaving the cave. Additionally, you can use grappling hooks to navigate tricky areas or escape dangerous situations.

Resource requirements for underwater cave exploration include scuba gear, medical brews, stimulants, and weapons. YouÔÇÖll also need a strong mount and possibly cryopods. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, preparation is even more critical since you wonÔÇÖt have backup. In a tribe, you can divide roles, with one player focusing on combat and another on navigation.

A specific example is the Caverns of Lost Faith on The Island map. This cave is home to the Artifact of the Cunning. To reach it, youÔÇÖll need to navigate through narrow passages filled with hostile creatures. Using a Basilosaurus, you can clear out threats and safely retrieve the artifact. Another example is the Caverns of Lost Hope, which contains the Artifact of the Brute. This cave is more challenging due to its deeper waters and stronger creatures, so a Tuso is recommended.

In conclusion, successfully navigating underwater caves in ARK requires thorough preparation, the right equipment, and a strong mount. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can safely retrieve the artifacts and progress in the game. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and execution are key to conquering these dangerous environments.