What are the best locations to farm polymer in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming polymer in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for crafting advanced items like weapons, armor, and structures. Polymer is a versatile resource used in many high-tier recipes, and there are two main types: organic polymer and regular polymer. Organic polymer is a temporary resource that spoils over time, while regular polymer is crafted from obsidian and cementing paste and does not spoil. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently farm polymer, including strategies, tips, and considerations for both solo players and tribes.

Organic polymer is the easiest to obtain early in the game, as it can be harvested from certain creatures. The best sources are Kairuku (penguins) and Mantis. Kairuku are found in cold regions like the western shores of the Island or the snowy biome on Ragnarok. Using a chainsaw or a high-damage weapon like a metal hatchet, you can harvest large amounts of organic polymer from their bodies. Mantis, found in the desert biomes of Scorched Earth or Ragnarok, also drop organic polymer when killed. However, Mantis are more dangerous and require better gear to handle. For both creatures, it is recommended to bring a tamed creature like a Sabertooth or Direwolf to help with harvesting, as they can increase the yield.

Regular polymer requires more effort to craft but is more reliable since it does not spoil. To craft regular polymer, you need obsidian and cementing paste. Obsidian is found in mountainous regions or volcanic areas on most maps. The Island has large obsidian deposits in the volcano and the mountains near the Red Obelisk. Cementing paste is crafted from chitin or keratin and stone in a mortar and pestle or chemistry bench. Alternatively, you can farm cementing paste by harvesting beaver dams, which are found near rivers and lakes. Be cautious when looting beaver dams, as the beavers will become aggressive if you take their resources.

For efficient farming, preparation is key. Bring a high-weight creature like an Argentavis or a Quetzal to carry large amounts of obsidian. A Doedicurus is ideal for gathering stone, while a Megatherium or Sabertooth can help farm chitin from insects. If you are playing solo, prioritize taming these creatures to make resource gathering easier. Tribes can divide tasks, with one player gathering obsidian while another farms cementing paste.

One common mistake is not bringing enough preserving bins or refrigerators to store organic polymer. Since it spoils quickly, you need to either use it immediately or store it in a preserving bin with sparkpowder to extend its lifespan. Another mistake is underestimating the dangers of farming in certain areas. For example, the snowy biome where Kairuku spawn is also home to dangerous predators like wolves and yetis. Always bring a strong mount and weapons for protection.

Advanced techniques include using a Tek Dedicated Storage system to store large amounts of polymer efficiently. Tribes can also set up outposts near resource-rich areas to reduce travel time. For example, building a small base near the volcano on the Island allows quick access to obsidian. Additionally, using a Gacha, a creature from the Extinction DLC, can passively produce polymer and other resources if fed the right items.

In summary, farming polymer in ARK requires careful planning and preparation. Organic polymer is easier to obtain but spoils quickly, while regular polymer is more durable but requires more effort to craft. Use the right tools and creatures to maximize efficiency, and always be prepared for the dangers of the environment. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you gather the polymer needed to progress in the game.