What are the best spots to farm element dust in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Farming element dust in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial activity for players looking to craft advanced items, such as Tek-tier equipment and structures. Element dust is a refined resource obtained by breaking down element shards or element itself, and it is primarily found in specific maps like Extinction, Genesis, and Genesis Part 2. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently farm element dust, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.
To start, element dust can be obtained in several ways. On Extinction, the most common method is by harvesting corrupted nodes, which are glowing purple rocks scattered across the map. These nodes yield element dust when mined with a pickaxe or a high-damage creature like a Mantis equipped with a pick. On Genesis and Genesis Part 2, element dust can be obtained by completing missions or harvesting specific resources in the lunar biome. Additionally, element dust can be crafted by placing element shards or element into a grinder, which breaks them down into dust.
For Extinction, the best spots to farm element dust are in the city biome and the desert biome. The city biome has a high concentration of corrupted nodes, especially around the edges of the map and near the Sanctuary. The desert biome also has a good number of nodes, but it is more dangerous due to the presence of corrupted creatures like Rexes and Wyverns. To farm efficiently, bring a high-damage creature like a Rex, Giga, or Mantis. A Mantis with a high-quality pickaxe is particularly effective because it can harvest multiple nodes quickly. Always carry a flyer like an Argentavis or Snow Owl to transport your loot and escape dangerous situations.
On Genesis and Genesis Part 2, element dust is more commonly obtained through missions. The lunar biome on Genesis Part 2 is a great place to farm element dust directly from the environment. Look for glowing purple rocks similar to the corrupted nodes on Extinction. These can be harvested with a pickaxe or a creature like a Mantis. Completing missions in the lunar biome also rewards element dust, so focus on missions that are quick and easy to complete, such as the "Star Dolphin" mission.
Preparation is key when farming element dust. Bring a high-damage tool or creature, as well as a flyer for mobility. Always carry plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, as corrupted creatures and hostile environments can quickly drain your health. If you are playing solo, consider taming a strong creature like a Rex or Giga to protect yourself while farming. In a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and defend each other from threats.
One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of corrupted creatures. These creatures are aggressive and can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Always scout the area before farming and clear out any threats. Another mistake is not bringing enough tools or creatures to harvest efficiently. A low-quality pickaxe or weak creature will yield less element dust, so invest in high-quality tools and strong tames.
Advanced techniques include using a Tek suit to farm element dust in dangerous areas. The Tek suit provides mobility and protection, making it easier to navigate hostile environments. Additionally, using a grinder to break down element shards or element into dust is a great way to maximize your resources. This is especially useful if you have excess element from boss fights or other activities.
In summary, farming element dust requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a good understanding of the map. Focus on high-yield areas like the city biome on Extinction or the lunar biome on Genesis Part 2. Use strong creatures and tools to harvest efficiently, and always be prepared for combat. With these strategies, you can gather plenty of element dust to fuel your Tek-tier advancements.
To start, element dust can be obtained in several ways. On Extinction, the most common method is by harvesting corrupted nodes, which are glowing purple rocks scattered across the map. These nodes yield element dust when mined with a pickaxe or a high-damage creature like a Mantis equipped with a pick. On Genesis and Genesis Part 2, element dust can be obtained by completing missions or harvesting specific resources in the lunar biome. Additionally, element dust can be crafted by placing element shards or element into a grinder, which breaks them down into dust.
For Extinction, the best spots to farm element dust are in the city biome and the desert biome. The city biome has a high concentration of corrupted nodes, especially around the edges of the map and near the Sanctuary. The desert biome also has a good number of nodes, but it is more dangerous due to the presence of corrupted creatures like Rexes and Wyverns. To farm efficiently, bring a high-damage creature like a Rex, Giga, or Mantis. A Mantis with a high-quality pickaxe is particularly effective because it can harvest multiple nodes quickly. Always carry a flyer like an Argentavis or Snow Owl to transport your loot and escape dangerous situations.
On Genesis and Genesis Part 2, element dust is more commonly obtained through missions. The lunar biome on Genesis Part 2 is a great place to farm element dust directly from the environment. Look for glowing purple rocks similar to the corrupted nodes on Extinction. These can be harvested with a pickaxe or a creature like a Mantis. Completing missions in the lunar biome also rewards element dust, so focus on missions that are quick and easy to complete, such as the "Star Dolphin" mission.
Preparation is key when farming element dust. Bring a high-damage tool or creature, as well as a flyer for mobility. Always carry plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, as corrupted creatures and hostile environments can quickly drain your health. If you are playing solo, consider taming a strong creature like a Rex or Giga to protect yourself while farming. In a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and defend each other from threats.
One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of corrupted creatures. These creatures are aggressive and can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Always scout the area before farming and clear out any threats. Another mistake is not bringing enough tools or creatures to harvest efficiently. A low-quality pickaxe or weak creature will yield less element dust, so invest in high-quality tools and strong tames.
Advanced techniques include using a Tek suit to farm element dust in dangerous areas. The Tek suit provides mobility and protection, making it easier to navigate hostile environments. Additionally, using a grinder to break down element shards or element into dust is a great way to maximize your resources. This is especially useful if you have excess element from boss fights or other activities.
In summary, farming element dust requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a good understanding of the map. Focus on high-yield areas like the city biome on Extinction or the lunar biome on Genesis Part 2. Use strong creatures and tools to harvest efficiently, and always be prepared for combat. With these strategies, you can gather plenty of element dust to fuel your Tek-tier advancements.