How do I locate the artifact of the Strong in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating the Artifact of the Strong in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful preparation, exploration, and combat readiness. This artifact is one of the key items needed to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. The Artifact of the Strong is located in the Caverns of Lost Faith, an underwater cave on The Island map. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully retrieve this artifact.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. The Caverns of Lost Faith is an underwater cave, meaning youÔÇÖll need to navigate through water-filled tunnels filled with hostile creatures like Megalodons, Eurypterids, and Cnidaria. The cave is dark, so youÔÇÖll need a light source, and the underwater environment means youÔÇÖll need to manage your oxygen levels carefully. The artifact itself is located deep within the cave, guarded by dangerous creatures and environmental hazards. YouÔÇÖll need to be well-prepared with the right gear, tames, and resources to survive the journey.

To begin, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for the expedition. Start by gathering the necessary resources. YouÔÇÖll need scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your oxygen supply, as well as flippers to increase your swimming speed. A strong underwater mount is essential. The Basilosaurus is highly recommended because it is immune to the stun effects of Cnidaria and can handle the caveÔÇÖs threats effectively. Alternatively, a high-level Megalodon or a pack of Ichthyosaurs can work, though they are more vulnerable to cave dangers. Bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount during the journey. YouÔÇÖll also need weapons like a crossbow or harpoon gun to deal with hostile creatures, as well as a pickaxe or hatchet to harvest resources like silica pearls and oil found in the cave.

Next, locate the cave entrance. The Caverns of Lost Faith is found in the western part of The Island, near coordinates 68.7, 56.1. The entrance is underwater, so youÔÇÖll need to dive down to find it. Once inside, follow the caveÔÇÖs winding tunnels. Be cautious of tight spaces and sharp turns, as they can disorient you and make it difficult to navigate. Use your light source to illuminate the area and watch for glowing jellyfish (Cnidaria) and other threats. If youÔÇÖre using a Basilosaurus, its immunity to stun will make this part easier, but still, avoid unnecessary fights to conserve health and stamina.

As you progress deeper into the cave, youÔÇÖll encounter Eurypterids, which can deal significant damage and reduce your oxygen levels. Use your mount to kill them quickly or swim past them if possible. The artifact chamber is located near the end of the cave, and youÔÇÖll need to dismount to retrieve it. Be prepared for a final fight, as the area is often guarded by multiple creatures. Once youÔÇÖve cleared the area, approach the artifact pedestal and interact with it to claim the Artifact of the Strong.

Here are some important tips and considerations. Always bring a backup mount or tame in case your primary one dies. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider bringing a few high-level tames to help with combat. For tribes, coordinate with your teammates to cover each other during the journey. Avoid bringing land-based tames, as they will drown in the underwater environment. Additionally, make sure your gear is repaired and your inventory is organized before entering the cave to avoid unnecessary delays.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the caveÔÇÖs dangers, not bringing enough healing items, or using the wrong mount. For example, using a Spino or Sarco might seem like a good idea, but their size can make navigation difficult in tight spaces. Another mistake is rushing through the cave without scouting ahead, which can lead to ambushes by hostile creatures.

Advanced techniques include using a Cryopod to bring a land-based mount into the cave for additional firepower, though this requires careful planning. You can also use grappling hooks to navigate tricky areas or escape dangerous situations. For resource optimization, harvest silica pearls and oil while in the cave to make the most of your trip.

In conclusion, retrieving the Artifact of the Strong requires thorough preparation, the right tames, and careful navigation. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, following these steps and tips will help you succeed in this challenging task. Good luck, survivor!