Where can I find the best metal spawns in the Center map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, metal is one of the most important resources for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. On The Center map, metal nodes are abundant in specific locations, and knowing where to find them is crucial for efficient resource gathering. The best metal spawns on The Center map are primarily found in mountainous regions, caves, and certain islands. Below is a detailed guide on how to locate and farm metal effectively, along with tips and strategies to optimize your efforts.

The most reliable metal spawns on The Center map are located in the high-altitude areas, particularly around the floating islands and the central mountain. The floating islands, located in the northwest part of the map, are one of the richest sources of metal. These islands are elevated and contain large clusters of metal nodes. The central mountain, located near the middle of the map, is another excellent spot for metal farming. Both areas are densely populated with metal nodes, making them ideal for gathering large quantities of metal in a short amount of time.

To begin farming metal, you will need a few essential tools and preparations. First, ensure you have a metal pickaxe, as it yields more metal per node compared to a stone pickaxe. If you are early in the game and do not yet have access to metal tools, prioritize taming a dinosaur that can harvest metal efficiently. Ankylosaurus is the best dinosaur for this purpose, as it can gather large amounts of metal with its tail attack. Additionally, bring a strong mount, such as an Argentavis or a Quetzal, to carry the Ankylosaurus and the harvested metal. These flying dinosaurs are essential for transporting heavy loads across the map.

When farming metal, it is important to plan your route carefully. Start by scouting the area for metal nodes and mark their locations on your map. This will help you create an efficient farming loop. On the floating islands, metal nodes are scattered across the rocky terrain, so fly your mount around the islands to locate them. On the central mountain, metal nodes are concentrated near the peak and along the slopes. Once you have identified the nodes, use your Ankylosaurus to harvest the metal. Be sure to clear the area of any hostile creatures before starting, as predators like Carnotaurus and Raptors can pose a threat.

One common mistake players make is overloading their inventory or their mountÔÇÖs inventory with metal. Metal is extremely heavy, and carrying too much can slow you down or prevent you from moving altogether. To avoid this, use a weight-reducing strategy. For example, Argentavis has a weight reduction bonus for metal, making it an excellent choice for transporting large quantities. Alternatively, you can use a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry the Ankylosaurus and the metal simultaneously. This setup allows you to farm and transport metal without needing to make multiple trips.

Advanced players can optimize their metal farming by setting up a temporary base or storage near the metal-rich areas. This reduces the time spent traveling back and forth to your main base. You can also use a Tek Transmitter or a Cryopod to quickly transport your Ankylosaurus and harvested metal. Additionally, consider using a mining drill if you have access to Tek-tier equipment. The mining drill is highly efficient and can harvest metal nodes quickly, though it requires fuel and advanced resources to craft.

For solo players, metal farming can be challenging due to the weight and logistics involved. However, with proper preparation and the right dinosaurs, it is entirely manageable. Focus on taming an Ankylosaurus and a strong flying mount early in the game. For tribes, metal farming can be a coordinated effort. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person scouting for nodes, another harvesting with the Ankylosaurus, and a third transporting the metal back to base. This division of labor can significantly increase efficiency.

In summary, the best metal spawns on The Center map are found on the floating islands and the central mountain. Use an Ankylosaurus to harvest metal efficiently and a flying mount like an Argentavis or Quetzal to transport it. Plan your route, clear the area of threats, and avoid overloading your inventory. Advanced techniques like setting up temporary bases or using Tek equipment can further optimize your metal farming. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, proper preparation and strategy will ensure you gather metal effectively and progress in the game.