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

The Artifact of the Shadows is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, required to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. This artifact is located in the Lower South Cave on The Island map. Obtaining it 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 Shadows, including preparation, strategies, and tips for success.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. The Lower South Cave is one of the easier caves in the game, but it still poses significant challenges. The cave is filled with creatures like Araneo (giant spiders), Titanoboa (giant snakes), and Onyc (bat-like creatures). These creatures are aggressive and can overwhelm unprepared players. The cave also has narrow passages, making it difficult to maneuver larger dinosaurs. The artifact itself is located deep within the cave, often requiring players to navigate through water and tight spaces to reach it.

To prepare for this cave, youÔÇÖll need the right equipment and resources. A good set of armor, such as chitin or flak armor, is essential to protect against the caveÔÇÖs creatures. Bring weapons like a crossbow, pike, or shotgun for close-quarters combat. Torches or a mining helmet are necessary for visibility, as the cave is dark. Medical brews or cooked meat can help sustain your health during the journey. Additionally, consider bringing a grappling hook to help navigate tricky areas or escape dangerous situations.

For dinosaur handling, smaller, agile creatures like the Sabertooth or Raptor are ideal for this cave. They can fit through the narrow passages and are effective against the caveÔÇÖs inhabitants. Alternatively, a pack of Dimorphodons can be useful for dealing with Onyc and other flying creatures. Avoid bringing larger dinosaurs like the Rex or Spino, as they wonÔÇÖt fit in the cave and will be ineffective.

Now, letÔÇÖs go through the step-by-step process of retrieving the artifact. Start by heading to the Lower South Cave, located at approximately 80.1 latitude and 53.5 longitude on The Island map. The entrance is a small opening in a cliffside, so youÔÇÖll need to dismount and enter on foot or with a small dinosaur. Once inside, follow the main path, being cautious of Araneo and Titanoboa. Use your weapons to clear a path, and keep an eye out for Onyc flying overhead.

As you progress, youÔÇÖll encounter water sections. These areas can be tricky, as they limit your movement and visibility. Swim carefully, and be prepared to fight off any creatures that attack. The artifact chamber is located at the end of the cave, often requiring you to navigate through a series of tunnels and water passages. Once you reach the chamber, youÔÇÖll find the Artifact of the Shadows on a pedestal. Approach it carefully, as there may still be creatures nearby. Grab the artifact, and then make your way back to the entrance.

Here are some important tips and considerations. Always bring extra supplies, as the cave can be unpredictable. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider bringing a few tamed creatures to help with combat. For tribes, coordinate with your teammates to cover all angles and protect each other. Be mindful of your surroundings, as the caveÔÇÖs tight spaces can make it easy to get cornered. If youÔÇÖre struggling, consider using a grappling hook to bypass difficult sections or escape dangerous situations.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the caveÔÇÖs creatures, not bringing enough supplies, and attempting to bring large dinosaurs into the cave. These mistakes can lead to unnecessary deaths and lost resources. Additionally, avoid rushing through the cave, as this can result in getting overwhelmed by enemies or falling into traps.

For advanced techniques, consider using a Baryonyx, a medium-sized dinosaur that excels in caves. Its ability to stun creatures with its tail spin and its effectiveness in water make it a great choice for the Lower South Cave. Another optimization is to use a Cryopod to bring a strong creature into the cave, then release it once inside. This can give you an edge in combat without the limitations of the caveÔÇÖs narrow passages.

In terms of resource requirements, youÔÇÖll need a good supply of weapons, armor, and healing items. For tribes, coordinating resource gathering and crafting can make the preparation process smoother. Solo players should focus on gathering enough materials to ensure theyÔÇÖre well-equipped for the journey.

In conclusion, retrieving the Artifact of the Shadows from the Lower South Cave requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and effective execution. By following this guide, youÔÇÖll be well-equipped to navigate the caveÔÇÖs challenges and secure the artifact for your boss summoning needs. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, the key to success lies in being prepared, staying vigilant, and adapting to the caveÔÇÖs dangers. Good luck, and may your journey be successful.