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 introduction of rare resources like element shards, which are essential for crafting element and advanced technology. Element shards are primarily found in the wasteland biome and around the city terminals, but farming them efficiently requires careful planning and preparation. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to find and farm element shards in Extinction.

Element shards are dropped by corrupted creatures, which are hostile, aggressive, and found throughout the wasteland biome. These creatures include corrupted dinosaurs like rexes, trikes, and raptors, as well as corrupted wyverns and other dangerous enemies. To farm element shards, you need to engage with these creatures, defeat them, and collect the shards they drop. The amount of shards dropped depends on the type of corrupted creature, with larger creatures like corrupted rexes and wyverns dropping more shards.

To begin farming element shards, you should first prepare your gear and tames. A strong combat mount is essential, such as a high-level rex, giga, or mana. These creatures have the health and damage output to handle the corrupted enemies effectively. Additionally, bring a good set of armor, weapons, and healing items like medical brews or cooked meat to sustain yourself during battles. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinating with teammates to bring multiple tames can make the process faster and safer.

Once youÔÇÖre prepared, head to the wasteland biome, which is the central area of the Extinction map. This biome is filled with corrupted creatures and is the primary location for farming element shards. Start by locating a group of corrupted creatures, but be cautious not to attract too many at once, as they can overwhelm you. Focus on taking down one creature at a time, using your mountÔÇÖs attacks and your weapons to deal damage. After defeating a corrupted creature, quickly collect the element shards it drops before moving on to the next target.

One effective strategy is to use a mana (Managarmr) for farming. Manas are fast, agile, and have powerful ranged attacks, making them ideal for kiting and taking down corrupted creatures without taking too much damage. Their ice breath attack can also slow enemies, giving you more control over the fight. If youÔÇÖre solo, a mana is one of the best options for farming shards efficiently.

Another advanced technique is to use a giga, which has immense damage output and can quickly dispatch corrupted creatures. However, gigas require careful handling, as their rage mechanic can make them dangerous if they take too much damage. Always keep an eye on your gigaÔÇÖs health and avoid engaging too many enemies at once.

When farming element shards, itÔÇÖs important to manage your inventory space. Element shards stack up to 100, so bring enough storage or a tame with a large inventory capacity, such as a paracer or a bronto, to carry the shards. This will allow you to farm for longer periods without needing to return to your base frequently.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the strength of corrupted creatures, especially in large groups. Always prioritize your safety and avoid engaging multiple corrupted rexes or wyverns at once. Additionally, donÔÇÖt forget to bring a cryopod or a way to recall your tame if things go wrong. This can save you from losing your mount in a dangerous situation.

For tribes, coordinating roles can optimize farming. For example, one player can focus on tanking damage with a strong mount like a giga, while another player uses a mana to deal ranged damage and collect shards. This teamwork can significantly increase efficiency and safety.

In summary, farming element shards in Extinction requires preparation, strong tames, and careful strategy. Focus on the wasteland biome, use mounts like manas or gigas, and manage your inventory effectively. Avoid common mistakes like overextending or underestimating corrupted creatures, and consider tribe coordination for optimal results. With these tips, youÔÇÖll be able to gather element shards efficiently and progress in the game.