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

The Artifact of the Skylord is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, required to summon the Dragon boss on The Island map. It is located in the North West Cave, also known as the Skylord Cave, which is situated in the northwestern part of the map. This cave is known for its challenging environment, including tight spaces, dangerous creatures, and environmental hazards. Below is a detailed guide on how to obtain the Artifact of the Skylord, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

To begin, you need to locate the North West Cave. The entrance is found at approximately 19.1 latitude and 19.0 longitude, near the snowy biome. The cave is marked by a large ice formation and is relatively easy to spot. Before entering, it is crucial to prepare adequately. The cave is filled with high-level predators such as Direwolves, Sabertooths, and Purlovias, as well as environmental hazards like slippery ice and narrow pathways. Bringing the right equipment and tames is essential.

For solo players, a strong mount like a Sabertooth, Thylacoleo, or Baryonyx is recommended. These creatures are agile and can handle the tight spaces and combat within the cave. If you are in a tribe, coordinating with teammates to bring multiple tames can make the journey easier. A pack of Direwolves or a group of Baryonyx can clear the cave efficiently. Additionally, having a high-level mount with good health and damage stats is crucial for surviving the cave's challenges.

Before entering the cave, ensure you have the necessary supplies. Bring plenty of food, water, and medical brews to sustain yourself. Armor with high insulation is recommended due to the cold temperatures in the cave. Weapons like shotguns, crossbows, or pikes are useful for dealing with enemies. Grappling hooks can also be helpful for navigating tricky sections of the cave. Torches or a light source are essential, as the cave is dark and visibility is limited.

Once inside the cave, proceed carefully. The path is narrow and winding, with many twists and turns. Be prepared to encounter enemies around every corner. Use your mount to fight off predators, but be cautious of their health. If your mount is low on health, consider retreating to a safe spot to heal before continuing. The cave also has several jumps and drops, so take your time to avoid falling into dangerous areas.

The Artifact of the Skylord is located deep within the cave, near the end of the path. You will need to navigate through several chambers and overcome multiple enemies to reach it. Once you arrive at the artifact chamber, be prepared for a final wave of enemies. Clear the area before attempting to retrieve the artifact. The artifact itself is found on a pedestal, and you can simply interact with it to collect it.

Common mistakes to avoid include rushing through the cave without proper preparation. The cave's enemies and environmental hazards can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Another mistake is bringing mounts that are too large or slow, as they can get stuck in the narrow passages. Always test your mount's agility and size before entering the cave. Additionally, failing to bring enough supplies can lead to starvation or dehydration, especially in longer cave runs.

Advanced techniques include using grappling hooks to bypass difficult sections or to escape dangerous situations. If you are in a tribe, assigning roles to each member can optimize your run. For example, one player can focus on combat while another handles navigation and healing. Using cryopods to bring multiple tames into the cave can also be beneficial, allowing you to switch mounts if one becomes injured.

Resource requirements for this cave run include high-quality armor, weapons, and medical supplies. Ensure you have enough materials to repair your gear if it gets damaged. Bringing extra ammunition and healing items is also recommended. If you are in a tribe, coordinating resource sharing can help distribute the load and ensure everyone is adequately equipped.

In conclusion, obtaining the Artifact of the Skylord requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and effective execution. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully navigate the North West Cave and retrieve the artifact. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the key to success lies in being well-prepared and adaptable to the challenges you will face. With the right approach, you can secure the Artifact of the Skylord and progress towards summoning the Dragon boss.