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 availability of rare resources like element shards. Element shards are a crucial resource used to craft element, which is essential for advanced technology and tek-tier items. Farming element shards efficiently requires understanding the map's mechanics, preparing the right tools and dinos, and knowing the best locations to gather them.

Element shards are primarily found in the wasteland biome and the city biome of the Extinction map. They are dropped by corrupted creatures, which are hostile, aggressive dinosaurs that spawn in these areas. Corrupted creatures include corrupted raptors, trikes, rexes, and more. Killing these creatures is the main way to obtain element shards. Additionally, element shards can be found in orbital supply drops and the king titan terminal, but these methods are more advanced and require significant preparation.

To farm element shards effectively, you need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have strong combat dinos, such as rexes, spinos, or gigas, as corrupted creatures can be tough to handle. A high-level rex with good saddles is a solid choice for solo players or small tribes. For larger tribes, a pack of well-bred and imprinted rexes or gigas can make the process faster and safer. Additionally, bring a high-damage weapon like a shotgun or assault rifle for backup, as well as plenty of ammo and healing items like med brews or cooked meat.

The wasteland biome is the most common area to farm element shards. Corrupted creatures spawn frequently here, especially near the edges of the city biome. A good strategy is to patrol the wasteland on a strong dino, killing corrupted creatures as you go. Focus on larger creatures like corrupted rexes and trikes, as they drop more shards. Be cautious of the environmental hazards in the wasteland, such as radiation and extreme weather, which can damage you and your dinos. Wearing a full set of hazard gear or using a tek suit can mitigate these effects.

Another effective method is to participate in orbital supply drops. These drops occur randomly in the wasteland and city biomes and are defended by waves of corrupted creatures. Completing the waves rewards you with element shards and other valuable loot. However, orbital drops are challenging and require a well-prepared team or a strong dino army. For solo players, it is recommended to focus on lower-tier drops, as they are easier to complete.

The king titan terminal is another source of element shards, but it is only accessible after defeating the king titan boss. This method is more suited for advanced players or large tribes with high-level tek gear and powerful dinos. Defeating the king titan is a significant challenge, so ensure your tribe is fully prepared with top-tier equipment and dinos before attempting it.

When farming element shards, it is important to manage your inventory and resources efficiently. Corrupted creatures drop a lot of shards, so bring a dino with high weight capacity, such as a brontosaurus or a tek stryder, to carry the loot. Additionally, consider setting up a small outpost near your farming area with storage boxes and a bed for respawning. This can save time and reduce the risk of losing your loot if you die.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating corrupted creatures, especially in large groups. Always be prepared for a fight and avoid engaging multiple corrupted creatures at once if you are not confident in your dino's strength. Another mistake is neglecting environmental hazards, which can quickly deplete your health and damage your dinos. Always wear appropriate gear or use tek suits to protect yourself.

Advanced techniques include using a tek stryder for farming. The tek stryder has a resource harvesting ability that can collect element shards from corrupted creatures more efficiently. Additionally, breeding and imprinting high-level rexes or gigas can significantly improve your farming speed and safety. For tribes, coordinating attacks and sharing resources can optimize the farming process.

In summary, farming element shards in Extinction requires preparation, strong dinos, and knowledge of the best locations. Focus on the wasteland biome, participate in orbital drops, and consider the king titan terminal for advanced players. Manage your resources carefully, avoid common mistakes, and use advanced techniques to optimize your farming. With the right strategy, you can gather element shards efficiently and progress in the game.