Where can I find the artifact of the Cunning in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Artifact of the Cunning is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, required for summoning the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. It is located in the Central Cave, also known as the Lower South Cave, on The Island map. Obtaining this artifact involves navigating a dangerous cave system filled with hostile creatures, environmental hazards, and tight spaces. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to find and retrieve the Artifact of the Cunning, including preparation, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

First, you need to prepare for the cave expedition. The Central Cave is one of the easier caves in the game, but it still poses significant threats, including high-level creatures like Onyc, Titanoboas, and Arthropleura. These creatures can deal heavy damage, and the caveÔÇÖs tight spaces make combat challenging. To prepare, you should gather essential resources and equipment. Bring a good set of armor, such as chitin or flak armor, to protect against attacks. A crossbow or longneck rifle with plenty of ammo is recommended for ranged combat. Additionally, bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal during the cave run. Grappling hooks can be useful for navigating tricky sections of the cave, and a few bolas can help immobilize smaller creatures like Titanoboas.

For dinosaur handling, smaller tames like the Sabertooth, Raptor, or Direwolf are ideal for this cave due to their agility and ability to fit through narrow passages. These creatures can help you fight off enemies and provide mobility. However, be cautious with larger tames, as some areas of the cave are too tight for them to pass through. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, a high-level Sabertooth or Raptor with good saddles can make the run much easier. In a tribe, coordinating with teammates to cover different roles, such as combat and healing, can improve your chances of success.

The Central Cave is located in the southern part of The Island, near the coordinates 41.5 latitude and 46.9 longitude. The entrance is a small opening in the side of a cliff, so look for a narrow passage leading into the cave. Once inside, youÔÇÖll need to navigate through a series of tunnels and chambers. The cave is relatively linear, but there are a few branching paths. Stick to the main path to avoid getting lost. Be prepared for ambushes from Onyc and Titanoboas, which often lurk in the shadows. Use your tames to clear out enemies, and keep an eye out for Arthropleura, as their acid spit can damage your armor.

As you progress deeper into the cave, youÔÇÖll encounter a large chamber with a pool of water. This area is a common spot for Titanoboas and Arthropleura, so proceed with caution. The Artifact of the Cunning is located in a small alcove near the back of this chamber. It is guarded by a few creatures, so clear them out before attempting to retrieve the artifact. Once you have the artifact, make your way back to the entrance. Be careful not to fall into the water, as it can slow you down and make you an easy target for enemies.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the caveÔÇÖs dangers and not bringing enough supplies. The Central Cave may seem easier compared to other caves, but the high-level creatures and tight spaces can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Another mistake is bringing tames that are too large for the cave, which can block your path or get stuck. Always test your tames in the cave entrance to ensure they can fit. Additionally, avoid rushing through the cave without scouting ahead, as this can lead to ambushes and unnecessary damage.

Advanced techniques for this cave include using grappling hooks to bypass dangerous areas or reach high ledges. This can help you avoid combat and save resources. Another strategy is to use a Cryopod to bring a strong mount into the cave, then release it once youÔÇÖre inside. This allows you to use larger tames like a Carnotaurus or Thylacoleo, which can handle the caveÔÇÖs threats more effectively. However, be mindful of the caveÔÇÖs tight spaces, as even these tames can get stuck in certain areas.

Resource requirements for this expedition include armor, weapons, ammo, medical supplies, and food. If youÔÇÖre using tames, make sure they have good saddles and are well-fed before entering the cave. For tribes, coordinating roles and sharing resources can make the run smoother. For example, one player can focus on combat while another handles healing and navigation.

In summary, obtaining the Artifact of the Cunning requires careful preparation, the right equipment, and a solid strategy. By bringing the right tames, staying alert for ambushes, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully navigate the Central Cave and retrieve the artifact. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, this guide should help you complete the challenge and progress toward summoning the Broodmother Lysrix.