What are the best resources to gather in the Wasteland Biome on Extinction in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Wasteland Biome in ARK: Survival Evolved's Extinction map is a harsh and dangerous environment, but it is also rich in valuable resources. Gathering resources here requires careful planning, the right tools, and a good understanding of the biome's unique challenges. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather the best resources in the Wasteland Biome, including step-by-step strategies, tips, and considerations.

The Wasteland Biome is characterized by its barren, post-apocalyptic landscape, filled with hostile creatures like corrupted dinosaurs, enforcers, and defense units. Despite the dangers, this biome is a prime location for gathering rare and high-value resources such as metal, oil, element dust, and corrupted nodules. These resources are essential for crafting advanced items, building structures, and progressing in the game.

To begin gathering resources in the Wasteland Biome, you will need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a strong and fast mount, such as a high-level Argentavis or a Tek Strider. These creatures can help you navigate the biome quickly and carry heavy loads of resources. Additionally, bring along a high-damage weapon, such as a longneck rifle or a shotgun, to defend yourself against the aggressive creatures that roam the area. It is also wise to carry medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself during encounters.

One of the most valuable resources in the Wasteland Biome is metal. Metal nodes are scattered throughout the biome, often found near rocky outcrops or cliffs. To gather metal efficiently, use a metal pick or a high-level Ankylosaurus. The Ankylosaurus is particularly effective because it can harvest large amounts of metal quickly and has a weight reduction for metal, allowing you to carry more. When gathering metal, be cautious of nearby corrupted creatures, as they can quickly overwhelm you if you are not prepared.

Oil is another crucial resource found in the Wasteland Biome. Oil nodes are typically located near the edges of the biome, close to the water or in the desert areas. To gather oil, use a metal pick or a high-level Dunkleosteus if you are near water. Oil is essential for crafting gasoline, which powers generators, fabricators, and other advanced machinery. When gathering oil, keep an eye out for corrupted creatures, as they are often attracted to the noise of harvesting.

Element dust is a rare and valuable resource that can be obtained by killing corrupted creatures or harvesting corrupted nodes. Corrupted nodes are glowing purple rocks found throughout the Wasteland Biome. Use a metal pick or a high-level Doedicurus to harvest these nodes. Element dust is used for crafting Tek-tier items and structures, making it a highly sought-after resource. When harvesting element dust, be prepared for a fight, as corrupted creatures will often spawn nearby to defend the nodes.

Corrupted nodules are another important resource found in the Wasteland Biome. These nodules can be harvested from corrupted creatures or found in small clusters on the ground. Use a metal pick or a high-level Therizinosaurus to gather corrupted nodules efficiently. These nodules are used for crafting advanced ammunition and explosives, making them essential for PvP and high-level PvE encounters. When gathering corrupted nodules, be cautious of the aggressive creatures that roam the biome, as they can quickly overwhelm you if you are not prepared.

One common mistake players make when gathering resources in the Wasteland Biome is underestimating the dangers of the environment. The biome is filled with hostile creatures that can quickly overwhelm an unprepared player. Always be on the lookout for corrupted dinosaurs, enforcers, and defense units, and be ready to defend yourself or flee if necessary. Additionally, avoid gathering resources at night, as visibility is low, and the dangers are even greater.

Advanced techniques for resource gathering in the Wasteland Biome include using a Tek Strider or a high-level Argentavis to carry large amounts of resources quickly. These creatures have weight reduction for certain resources, allowing you to gather more before needing to return to your base. Additionally, consider setting up a small outpost near the biome to store resources and restock on supplies. This can save you time and reduce the risk of losing valuable resources to hostile creatures.

Tribe considerations are also important when gathering resources in the Wasteland Biome. If you are part of a tribe, coordinate with your tribe members to gather resources more efficiently. Assign roles, such as one player gathering metal while another gathers oil, to maximize your resource yield. Additionally, consider bringing along a high-level Rex or Spino to defend against the aggressive creatures in the biome.

In conclusion, the Wasteland Biome in ARK: Survival Evolved's Extinction map is a challenging but rewarding environment for resource gathering. By preparing adequately, using the right tools and creatures, and being cautious of the dangers, you can efficiently gather valuable resources such as metal, oil, element dust, and corrupted nodules. Whether you are playing solo or as part of a tribe, careful planning and coordination are key to success in this harsh and unforgiving biome.