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 to 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 talk about 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 particularly effective 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 increase the yield per node.

To start farming metal in the Highlands, you need to prepare. 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 ideal because it can carry the Ankylosaurus with its beak, allowing you to fly to metal nodes and drop the Ankylosaurus to harvest. You should also bring a weight-reducing dinosaur like a Paracer or a Mammoth to help transport the metal back to your base. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, you may need to make multiple trips, so plan accordingly.

When you arrive in the Highlands, scout the area for metal nodes. The best spots are the rocky hills near the coast and the cliffs overlooking the ocean. These areas have dense clusters of metal nodes. Once you find a good spot, drop your Ankylosaurus and start harvesting. Make sure to clear any nearby predators, such as Allosaurus or Carnotaurus, before you begin farming. These creatures can be dangerous, especially if youÔÇÖre focused on harvesting.

After harvesting the metal, load it onto your transport dinosaur. If youÔÇÖre using an Argentavis, you can carry the Ankylosaurus back to your base while it holds the metal. Alternatively, you can use a Paracer or Mammoth to carry the metal while you ride the Ankylosaurus. Once you return to your base, unload the metal into a forge or storage box. If you have a refining forge, you can smelt the metal into ingots for crafting.

There are several important tips to consider when farming metal in the Highlands. First, always bring a backup mount or a flyer in case your primary mount gets killed. The Highlands can be dangerous, and losing your Ankylosaurus or Argentavis can set you back significantly. Second, avoid farming during storms or at night, as visibility is reduced, and you may encounter more predators. Third, consider building a small outpost near the Highlands with a bed, storage, and a forge. This will allow you to respawn nearby and store your metal without traveling long distances.

Common mistakes to avoid include overloading your dinosaurs and not clearing predators before farming. Overloading your dinosaurs can make them slow and vulnerable to attacks. Always monitor their weight and avoid carrying more than they can handle. Additionally, failing to clear predators can result in your dinosaurs being attacked while youÔÇÖre harvesting, leading to potential losses.

Advanced techniques for optimizing metal farming include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry the Ankylosaurus. This allows you to hover over metal nodes and harvest without dismounting. You can also use a Tek Transmitter to teleport the metal back to your base, saving time and effort. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to maximize efficiency. One player can focus on harvesting while another transports the metal.

In terms of resource requirements, youÔÇÖll need a strong Ankylosaurus, a flyer like an Argentavis or Wyvern, and a transport dinosaur like a Paracer or Mammoth. You should also bring weapons and armor to defend against predators. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider taming multiple Ankylosauruses to increase your farming speed.

In conclusion, farming metal in the Highlands on the Ragnarok map is a highly efficient way to gather large amounts of metal. By using the right dinosaurs, preparing properly, and following these strategies, you can maximize your metal yield and progress quickly in the game. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and optimize your farming efforts.