Where are the best locations to find metal on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Finding metal on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved is crucial for progression, as metal is used to craft advanced tools, weapons, and structures. Scorched Earth is a harsh desert environment with unique challenges, but it also offers several prime locations for metal farming. Understanding the mechanics, strategies, and preparation required will help you gather metal efficiently.

Metal nodes on Scorched Earth are typically found in rocky or mountainous areas. These nodes appear as dark, shiny rocks and can be harvested using tools like a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. However, using a dinosaur like an Ankylosaurus is far more efficient, as it can gather large amounts of metal quickly and carry heavy loads. Before heading out, ensure you have the necessary tools or a tamed Ankylosaurus, as well as a strong mount like a Wyvern or a fast creature such as a Raptor to navigate the dangerous terrain.

One of the best locations for metal on Scorched Earth is the central mountain range, particularly around the coordinates 45, 45. This area is rich in metal nodes and is relatively accessible. However, it is also home to dangerous creatures like Carnotaurus and Rock Elementals, so be prepared for combat. Another excellent spot is the northern mountains near the coordinates 20, 30. This area has a high concentration of metal nodes but is colder at night, so bring appropriate gear like fur armor or a campfire to stay warm.

When farming metal, it is important to bring a weight-efficient dinosaur like an Argentavis or a Quetzal to transport the metal back to your base. Metal is heavy, and carrying too much can slow you down or prevent you from moving altogether. If you are playing solo, consider setting up a temporary forge near the metal nodes to smelt the metal into ingots on-site, reducing the weight you need to carry. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players to gather and transport metal can significantly speed up the process.

Preparation is key when farming metal on Scorched Earth. Bring plenty of water and food, as the desert heat can quickly drain your stamina and health. Additionally, pack weapons and armor to defend yourself against predators. If you are using an Ankylosaurus, ensure it has high melee damage and weight capacity to maximize efficiency. For advanced players, consider using a Tek Transmitter to teleport metal directly to your base, though this requires access to Tek-tier technology.

Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into metal-rich areas without proper preparation, such as lacking weapons or armor. Another mistake is overloading your inventory or dinosaur, which can leave you stranded in a dangerous area. Always monitor your weight and plan your route back to your base before gathering too much metal. Additionally, avoid farming metal during sandstorms, as visibility is reduced, and you may encounter more predators.

Advanced techniques for metal farming include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry an Ankylosaurus directly to metal nodes. This allows you to gather metal quickly and transport it efficiently. Another strategy is to build a small outpost near metal-rich areas, complete with a forge and storage, to reduce travel time. For tribes, assigning specific roles, such as one player gathering metal while another defends or transports, can optimize the process.

In summary, the best locations for metal on Scorched Earth are the central and northern mountain ranges. Use an Ankylosaurus for efficient gathering and a strong mount for transportation. Prepare adequately with food, water, and weapons, and avoid common mistakes like overloading or farming during sandstorms. Advanced techniques like using a Quetzal or building outposts can further enhance your metal farming efficiency. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and coordination will ensure you gather the metal needed for survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.