How do I locate and gather resources like sulfur and salt in the Desert Biome on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating and gathering resources like sulfur and salt in the Desert Biome on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of preparation, strategy, and understanding of the environment. The Desert Biome is one of the harshest areas in the game, with extreme heat, dangerous creatures, and limited water sources. However, it is also rich in valuable resources like sulfur and salt, which are essential for crafting explosives, preserving food, and other advanced recipes.

To begin, you need to prepare for the harsh conditions of the Desert Biome. The first step is to ensure you have adequate water supplies. The heat in the desert can quickly dehydrate you, so carry multiple water containers or a water jar. Additionally, wearing desert-specific armor like the Desert Cloth Armor will help you manage the heat and reduce water consumption. You should also bring a tent or a shelter to protect yourself from sandstorms, which can reduce visibility and damage your health over time.

Once you are prepared, you can start searching for sulfur and salt. Sulfur is typically found in rocky outcrops and can be harvested using a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. The best locations for sulfur are near the edges of the desert, where rocky formations are more common. Look for yellowish rocks, as these are the ones that contain sulfur. Be cautious when harvesting, as the desert is home to dangerous creatures like Deathworms and Rock Elementals. It is advisable to bring a tamed creature like a Wyvern or a Rock Elemental for protection and to help carry the resources.

Salt, on the other hand, is found in salt deposits scattered across the desert. These deposits appear as white, crystalline formations on the ground and can be harvested using a pickaxe. Salt is more abundant in the central and southern parts of the desert, so focus your search in these areas. Like sulfur, salt deposits are often guarded by hostile creatures, so having a strong mount is essential.

When gathering resources, it is important to manage your inventory efficiently. Sulfur and salt are heavy, so you may need to make multiple trips or use a pack animal to carry the resources back to your base. A Paraceratherium or a Mammoth can be useful for this purpose, as they have high weight capacity and can carry large amounts of resources. Additionally, consider setting up a temporary base or storage near the resource-rich areas to reduce travel time.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of the Desert Biome. The heat, sandstorms, and hostile creatures can quickly overwhelm an unprepared survivor. Always carry extra supplies, such as food, water, and medical items, and avoid venturing too far from your base without a reliable means of escape. Another mistake is not using the right tools for harvesting. Using a metal pickaxe will yield more sulfur and salt compared to a stone pickaxe, so make sure to upgrade your tools before heading into the desert.

Advanced techniques for resource gathering include using a Quetzal or an Argentavis to transport large quantities of resources. These flying creatures can carry heavy loads and provide a safe means of transportation across the desert. Additionally, using a mining drill can significantly increase your resource yield, but this requires advanced technology and a reliable power source.

Tribe considerations are also important when gathering resources in the Desert Biome. Working with a tribe can make the process more efficient, as multiple players can gather resources simultaneously and provide protection against hostile creatures. However, solo players can still succeed by carefully planning their trips and using strong mounts for protection.

In summary, gathering sulfur and salt in the Desert Biome on the Scorched Earth map requires careful preparation, efficient resource management, and a strong understanding of the environment. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully harvest these valuable resources and advance your survival in ARK: Survival Evolved.