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

The Artifact of the Depths 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 Lower South Cave on The Island map. Obtaining this artifact 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 Depths, including preparation, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

First, you need to prepare for the cave expedition. The Lower South Cave is relatively accessible early in the game, but it is still dangerous due to the presence of creatures like Titanoboas, Arthropleuras, and Onyc. These creatures can deal significant damage, especially in the confined spaces of the cave. To prepare, you will need a strong mount, such as a Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a pack of Direwolves. These creatures are agile and can handle the tight spaces and enemies inside the cave. Alternatively, a high-level Baryonyx is an excellent choice due to its ability to swim and fight effectively in water, which is useful for navigating the caveÔÇÖs water sections.

You will also need proper gear. Bring a set of flak armor or better to protect yourself from enemy attacks. A crossbow or longneck rifle with plenty of ammo is essential for dealing with enemies from a distance. Additionally, bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount during the journey. Grappling hooks and climbing picks can be useful for navigating tricky sections of the cave, especially if you fall into water or need to bypass enemies.

The Lower South Cave is located in the southern part of The Island, near the coordinates 68.0, 56.0. The entrance is a small opening in a cliffside, so you may need to dismount and enter on foot if your mount is too large. Once inside, the cave is a linear path with some branching tunnels. Follow the main path, but be cautious of ambushes from creatures hiding in the shadows. Use your mount to clear out enemies, but be mindful of its health and stamina. If your mount is low on health, retreat to a safe area and let it recover.

The cave features several water sections, which can be dangerous due to the presence of Piranhas and other aquatic threats. If you are using a Baryonyx, you can easily handle these enemies. Otherwise, dismount and use ranged weapons to clear the water before proceeding. The Artifact of the Depths is located in a chamber at the end of the cave, guarded by a group of creatures. Clear the area, then approach the artifact pedestal to collect it.

One common mistake is underestimating the caveÔÇÖs difficulty. Even though it is one of the easier caves, it can still be deadly if you are unprepared. Avoid rushing in without proper gear or a strong mount. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of ammo or healing items mid-cave can leave you vulnerable. Always bring extra resources to ensure you can handle any situation.

For advanced players, consider using a Cryopod to bring a larger mount into the cave. This allows you to use a powerful creature like a Rex or Spino, which can easily clear the cave but would normally be too large to fit through the entrance. Cryopods can also be used to store your mount if you need to navigate tight spaces or water sections on foot.

If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover different roles. One player can focus on combat, while another handles healing and resource management. This division of labor can make the cave run smoother and safer. Solo players should focus on self-sufficiency, ensuring they have all the necessary tools and supplies to handle any situation alone.

In summary, obtaining the Artifact of the Depths requires careful preparation, a strong mount, and a cautious approach. Bring the right gear, clear enemies methodically, and be ready for the caveÔÇÖs challenges. With proper planning and execution, you can successfully retrieve the artifact and progress toward summoning the Broodmother Lysrix.