Where can I find the artifact of the Devourer in the Swamp Cave on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Artifact of the Devourer is one of the key artifacts required to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the three main bosses on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved. This artifact is located in the Swamp Cave, which is one of the most challenging caves in the game due to its hostile environment and dangerous creatures. Here is a detailed guide on how to find and retrieve the Artifact of the Devourer, including preparation, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

The Swamp Cave is located in the Redwood Forest biome, near the center of The Island. The entrance is a small, unassuming hole in the ground, but once inside, you will encounter a maze-like cave filled with toxic gas, hostile creatures, and tight spaces. The cave is home to creatures like Arthropluera, Titanoboas, and Megalania, all of which can deal significant damage. Additionally, the cave is filled with toxic gas, which will rapidly drain your health if you are not properly prepared.

To prepare for the Swamp Cave, you will need a few key items. First, you will need a Gas Mask or a full set of SCUBA gear to protect yourself from the toxic gas. The Gas Mask is easier to craft and requires fewer resources, but it will break over time, so bring multiple masks or repair materials. SCUBA gear offers better protection and durability but requires more advanced resources like polymer and silica pearls. You will also need a strong weapon, such as a shotgun or a longneck rifle, to deal with the cave's creatures. Bring plenty of ammunition, as you will encounter many enemies. Additionally, bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself, as the cave's hazards and creatures can quickly deplete your health.

For dinosaur handling, the Swamp Cave is unique because it is one of the few caves where you cannot bring most dinosaurs due to the tight spaces and narrow passages. However, you can bring a Megatherium, which is highly effective against the cave's arthropod creatures like Arthropluera and Titanoboas. The Megatherium's Insect Killer buff makes it deal extra damage to these creatures, making it an excellent choice for clearing the cave. If you do not have a Megatherium, you will need to rely on your weapons and armor to survive.

Once you enter the cave, follow the main path, which will lead you through a series of tunnels and chambers. Be cautious of the Arthropluera, as they can spit acid that damages your armor and health. Use your weapon to take them out from a distance if possible. The Titanoboas are also dangerous, as they can knock you out with their venom. Keep your distance and use your weapon to eliminate them before they can attack. The Megalania are less dangerous but can still deal significant damage if you are not careful.

As you progress through the cave, you will eventually reach a large chamber with a pool of water in the center. The Artifact of the Devourer is located in this chamber, usually on a ledge or in a small alcove. Be prepared for a fight, as this area is often guarded by multiple creatures. Clear the area of enemies before attempting to retrieve the artifact. Once you have the artifact, make your way back to the entrance, being careful to avoid any respawned creatures or new threats.

Common mistakes to avoid include not bringing enough Gas Masks or SCUBA gear, as the toxic gas will quickly kill you if you are not protected. Another mistake is underestimating the cave's creatures, especially the Arthropluera and Titanoboas, which can quickly overwhelm you if you are not prepared. Additionally, do not rush through the cave, as the tight spaces and maze-like layout can easily disorient you, leading to unnecessary encounters with enemies.

Advanced techniques include using a Megatherium to clear the cave more efficiently, as its Insect Killer buff makes it highly effective against the cave's arthropod creatures. You can also use grappling hooks to navigate the cave's vertical sections more quickly, though this requires some practice and precision. If you are playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover each other and share resources, such as Gas Masks and medical supplies.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of materials to craft the necessary gear and weapons. For a Gas Mask, you will need fiber, hide, and silica pearls. For SCUBA gear, you will need polymer, silica pearls, and cementing paste. For weapons and ammunition, you will need metal, gunpowder, and other resources. Make sure to gather these materials before attempting the cave, as running out of supplies mid-cave can be disastrous.

Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, the Swamp Cave is a challenging but rewarding experience. Solo players will need to be extra cautious and well-prepared, as there is no one to revive you if you are knocked out or killed. Tribe players can divide responsibilities, such as having one player focus on combat while another handles healing and resource management. Regardless of your playstyle, careful preparation and strategy are key to successfully retrieving the Artifact of the Devourer.

In conclusion, the Swamp Cave is one of the most dangerous caves on The Island, but with the right preparation and strategy, you can successfully retrieve the Artifact of the Devourer. Bring the necessary gear, weapons, and supplies, and be prepared for a challenging fight. Use a Megatherium if possible, and be cautious of the cave's creatures and hazards. With careful planning and execution, you will be able to claim the artifact and move one step closer to summoning the Broodmother Lysrix.