What are the best locations to farm metal on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming metal on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most important tasks for mid to late-game progression. Metal is essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, armor, and structures, making it a highly sought-after resource. The Island has several prime locations for metal farming, each with its own advantages and challenges. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently farm metal, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The first step in farming metal is understanding the mechanics. Metal nodes are large, shiny rocks that are typically found in mountainous or rocky areas. These nodes yield metal ore when harvested with the right tools. The most efficient tools for harvesting metal are a Metal Pick or an Ankylosaurus. A Metal Pick yields more metal than a Stone Pick, and an Ankylosaurus has a natural bonus to harvesting metal, making it the best option for large-scale farming. Additionally, using a high-level Ankylosaurus with points invested in Melee Damage will significantly increase the amount of metal you can gather.

One of the best locations for farming metal on The Island is the Volcano. The Volcano is located in the center of the map and is rich in metal nodes. However, this area is also dangerous due to the presence of predators like Carnotaurus and Raptors. To farm here safely, it is recommended to bring a strong mount, such as a Rex or a Spino, to protect you while you gather resources. Another excellent location is the mountains in the northwest part of the map, near the Snow Biome. These mountains are also rich in metal nodes but are colder and more dangerous due to the presence of predators like Sabertooths and Direwolves. Wearing Fur Armor or using a high-level Otter can help you survive the cold temperatures.

When farming metal, it is important to have a strategy in place. First, scout the area to identify the locations of metal nodes. Once you have located the nodes, clear the area of any threats using your mount. Then, use your Ankylosaurus to harvest the metal nodes. If you do not have an Ankylosaurus, a Metal Pick will work, but it will be less efficient. After harvesting the metal, you will need to transport it back to your base. This can be done using a high-weight mount like a Argentavis or a Quetzal. These flying mounts can carry large amounts of metal and are essential for efficient farming.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when farming metal. First, always be aware of your surroundings. Predators can quickly overwhelm you if you are not prepared. Second, make sure to bring enough food and water, especially if you are farming in the Snow Biome. Third, consider building a small outpost near your farming location. This outpost can serve as a storage area for your metal and a safe place to rest. Finally, always have a plan for transporting your metal back to your base. Flying mounts are the best option, but if you do not have one, consider using a raft or a Paracer with a platform saddle.

Common mistakes to avoid when farming metal include not bringing enough supplies, underestimating the dangers of the area, and not having a plan for transporting your metal. It is also important to avoid overloading your mount. If your mount is carrying too much weight, it will move slowly and be more vulnerable to attacks. Always monitor your mount's weight and make multiple trips if necessary.

Advanced techniques for farming metal include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle and a Ankylosaurus. This setup allows you to carry the Ankylosaurus to the metal nodes, harvest the metal, and then transport it back to your base in one trip. Another advanced technique is to use a Tek Transmitter to quickly transport large amounts of metal back to your base. However, this requires access to Tek Tier technology.

Resource requirements and preparation are key to successful metal farming. You will need a Metal Pick or an Ankylosaurus, a high-weight mount for transportation, and enough supplies to survive in the area. It is also a good idea to bring a few backup tools in case your primary tool breaks. If you are farming in a dangerous area, consider bringing a few extra mounts or tribe members for protection.

Tribe and solo considerations are also important. If you are playing solo, you will need to be extra cautious and plan your trips carefully. If you are in a tribe, consider dividing the tasks among tribe members. For example, one member can focus on harvesting metal while another focuses on protecting the group. This can make the process more efficient and safer.

In conclusion, farming metal on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for progression. By understanding the mechanics, choosing the right locations, and using the right tools and mounts, you can efficiently gather large amounts of metal. Always be prepared for the dangers of the area and have a plan for transporting your metal back to your base. With the right strategy and preparation, you can become a master metal farmer and advance quickly in the game.