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

The Artifact of the Cunning is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, required for summoning the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. It is located in the Central Cave, also known as the Jungle Cave, on The Island map. This cave is one of the more challenging ones due to its tight spaces, hostile creatures, and environmental hazards. Below is a detailed guide on how to obtain the Artifact of the Cunning, including mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

The Central Cave is situated in the jungle biome, roughly at coordinates 41.5 latitude and 46.9 longitude. The entrance is a small hole in the ground, which can be easy to miss if you're not paying attention. Once inside, you'll encounter a variety of dangers, including high-level creatures like Onyc, Arthropluera, and Titanoboas. The cave is also filled with pitfalls, narrow pathways, and water sections, making navigation tricky. The artifact itself is located deep within the cave, requiring you to traverse through these hazards to reach it.

Before entering the cave, preparation is crucial. You will need a strong mount that can handle the tight spaces and combat. A high-level Baryonyx is an excellent choice due to its agility, ability to swim, and strong attack power. Alternatively, a pack of high-level Direwolves or Sabertooths can work well if you prefer a group approach. Make sure your mount has good health and damage stats, as well as a saddle for added protection. You should also bring weapons like a shotgun or crossbow, along with plenty of ammunition, as well as armor with high durability to protect against the cave's dangers.

Resource management is key when preparing for this cave. Bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount, as well as stimulants to counteract the torpor effects from Titanoboas. Grappling hooks can be useful for navigating tricky sections, and parachutes can help if you fall into a pit. Additionally, bring a few campfires and materials to craft more if needed, as the cave can be cold in certain areas.

When entering the cave, proceed carefully. The narrow pathways and sudden drops can catch you off guard, so take your time. Use your mount to clear out enemies, but be cautious of Arthropluera, as their acid spit can damage your armor and weapons. If you encounter a Titanoboa, try to take it out from a distance to avoid its torpor-inducing bite. The cave has several water sections, so having a mount like the Baryonyx that can swim and attack in water is a significant advantage.

One common mistake is underestimating the cave's difficulty. Players often rush in without proper preparation, leading to quick deaths or losing their mounts. Always scout the area before committing to a fight, and avoid engaging multiple enemies at once if possible. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of ammo or healing items mid-cave can leave you vulnerable, so always pack extra.

For advanced players, using a grappling hook to bypass certain sections of the cave can save time and reduce risk. You can also use a Cryopod to bring a larger mount into the cave, such as a Thylacoleo, which can climb walls and provide additional mobility. However, be mindful of the cave's tight spaces, as larger mounts can get stuck.

Tribe considerations are important as well. If you're playing with a tribe, coordinate roles before entering the cave. One player can focus on clearing enemies, while another handles navigation and artifact retrieval. Communication is key to avoid accidents, such as falling into pits or aggroing too many creatures at once. Solo players should focus on a single strong mount and prioritize survival over speed.

Once you reach the artifact chamber, you'll find the Artifact of the Cunning on a pedestal. Be cautious, as the area is often guarded by high-level creatures. Clear the area before attempting to take the artifact. After obtaining it, make your way back to the entrance carefully, as the cave's hazards remain active.

In summary, obtaining the Artifact of the Cunning requires careful preparation, a strong mount, and strategic navigation. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully retrieve the artifact and progress toward summoning the Broodmother Lysrix. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, patience and preparation are your best allies in conquering the Central Cave.