How do I navigate the lava cave on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Navigating the lava cave on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging tasks in the game due to its hazardous environment, tight spaces, and dangerous creatures. This cave, also known as the Upper South Cave, is located in the southern part of the map near the red obelisk. It is filled with lava pits, narrow pathways, and aggressive creatures like Onyc, Arthropluera, and Titanoboas. To successfully navigate this cave, you need careful preparation, the right equipment, and a solid strategy.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. The lava cave is a high-temperature environment with narrow passages and multiple levels. The lava itself is an instant kill if you fall into it, so avoiding it is critical. The cave is also home to high-level creatures that can deal significant damage, especially in tight spaces where maneuvering is difficult. Additionally, the cave contains an artifact, the Artifact of the Immune, which is required for summoning the Broodmother Lysrix boss. The caveÔÇÖs layout is complex, with multiple paths and dead ends, so having a plan is essential.

Preparation is key to surviving the lava cave. You will need a strong mount that can handle the caveÔÇÖs tight spaces and hostile creatures. A high-level Baryonyx is one of the best choices because it is small enough to fit through the caveÔÇÖs narrow passages, has good health and damage output, and can stun smaller creatures with its tail spin attack. Alternatively, a Megalosaurus or Thylacoleo can also work well, but they are harder to maneuver in tight spaces. Make sure your mount has a good saddle for added protection.

For equipment, bring a set of high-quality flak armor or better to protect against the caveÔÇÖs creatures and environmental hazards. A crossbow or longneck rifle with tranq darts is useful for dealing with threats from a distance. Bring plenty of medical brews, stimulants, and food to sustain yourself during the journey. Grappling hooks and climbing picks can help you navigate tricky sections of the cave, especially if you need to bypass lava or climb to higher levels. A cryopod can also be useful for storing your mount temporarily if you encounter areas where it cannot fit.

When entering the cave, start by clearing the entrance area of any creatures. Use your mount to take out Onyc and Arthropluera, as they can quickly overwhelm you if left unchecked. Proceed cautiously, as the caveÔÇÖs narrow pathways make it easy to get cornered. Use your mountÔÇÖs abilities to stun or knock back enemies, and avoid engaging multiple creatures at once if possible. Keep an eye out for lava pits and use your grappling hook or climbing picks to navigate around them safely.

One of the most important tips is to avoid rushing through the cave. Take your time to clear each section before moving forward. The lava cave is not a place where speed is your friend. Pay attention to the caveÔÇÖs layout and use landmarks to avoid getting lost. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a backup mount or a cryopod with a second creature in case your primary mount dies. For tribes, coordinate with your teammates to cover different roles, such as one person focusing on combat while another handles navigation and resource management.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the caveÔÇÖs creatures, especially Arthropluera, which can deal significant damage with their acid spit. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies, as the caveÔÇÖs length and difficulty can quickly deplete your resources. Finally, avoid taking unnecessary risks near lava pits, as one misstep can result in instant death.

Advanced techniques include using a grappling hook to bypass certain sections of the cave or to escape dangerous situations. You can also use a cryopod to store your mount temporarily and navigate on foot through tight spaces, then release it when you reach a safer area. For tribes, consider setting up a small outpost near the cave entrance to store extra supplies or respawn points in case of death.

Resource requirements for the lava cave include a strong mount, high-quality armor, weapons, medical supplies, and tools like grappling hooks and climbing picks. Make sure to bring extra resources in case of emergencies, as the caveÔÇÖs length and difficulty can quickly drain your supplies.

In conclusion, navigating the lava cave on The Island requires careful preparation, the right equipment, and a solid strategy. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, taking your time and being cautious is key to success. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully navigate the lava cave and retrieve the Artifact of the Immune.