Where are the artifact caves located in the Aberration map of ARK: Survival Evolved?
In ARK: Survival Evolved, the Aberration map is unique due to its hazardous environments, verticality, and lack of traditional flying creatures. This makes locating and navigating artifact caves more challenging compared to other maps. Aberration has three main artifact caves, each containing one of the artifacts required to summon the map's boss, Rockwell. These artifacts are the Artifact of the Depths, the Artifact of the Shadows, and the Artifact of the Stalker. Below is a detailed guide on how to locate and navigate these caves, along with tips and strategies for success.
The Artifact of the Depths is located in the Elemental Vault, which is one of the most dangerous areas on the map. To reach this cave, head to the northeastern part of the map, near the Fertile Lake. The entrance is a large, glowing blue cave that descends into the depths of Aberration. Inside, you will encounter radiation, so bringing a Hazard Suit or a full set of Radiation Armor is essential. The cave is filled with hostile creatures like Nameless, Reapers, and Rock Drakes, so having a strong mount like a Rock Drake or a high-level Megalosaurus is highly recommended. The artifact is located deep within the cave, past several hazardous areas, so proceed carefully and be prepared for combat.
The Artifact of the Shadows is found in the Shadow Cave, located in the southwestern part of the map, near the Edge of the Spine. This cave is less dangerous than the Elemental Vault but still poses significant threats. The entrance is a narrow, dark passage that leads into a series of tunnels filled with Ravagers, Carnotaurus, and other predators. A good strategy is to bring a pack of tamed Ravagers, as they are fast, agile, and can carry resources. The artifact is located in a chamber deep within the cave, so be prepared to navigate tight spaces and deal with ambushes. Using a light pet like a Bulbdog or Shinehorn can help illuminate the dark areas and deter Nameless spawns.
The Artifact of the Stalker is located in the Old Railway Cave, which is in the central part of the map, near the Fertile Lake. This cave is relatively easier to navigate compared to the others but still requires caution. The entrance is a large, open tunnel that leads into a series of interconnected chambers. Inside, you will encounter creatures like Karkinos, Ravagers, and occasional Reapers. A strong mount like a Spino or a pack of Ravagers is recommended for this cave. The artifact is located in a chamber with a large, glowing mushroom, so keep an eye out for this landmark. Using climbing picks or a Rock Drake can help you navigate the vertical sections of the cave more efficiently.
Preparation is key when attempting to retrieve artifacts in Aberration. Ensure you have a Hazard Suit or Radiation Armor to protect against radiation, especially in the Elemental Vault. Bring plenty of medical brews, food, and water to sustain yourself during the journey. A good mount is essential, with Rock Drakes being the best option due to their climbing abilities and combat prowess. Light pets are also highly recommended to deter Nameless and provide illumination in dark areas.
Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the dangers of the caves, especially the Elemental Vault. Radiation, hostile creatures, and environmental hazards can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies, as the caves can be lengthy and resource-intensive. Always plan ahead and bring extra resources, including backup armor and weapons.
Advanced techniques include using climbing picks or a Rock Drake to navigate vertical sections of the caves more efficiently. This can help you avoid dangerous areas and reach the artifact faster. Another technique is to use a pack of Ravagers for their speed and resource-carrying capabilities, making it easier to transport loot and navigate tight spaces.
Resource requirements include a Hazard Suit or Radiation Armor, medical brews, food, water, and a strong mount. For solo players, it is especially important to bring a light pet and a reliable mount to handle the dangers of the caves. For tribes, coordinating with teammates to cover different roles, such as combat, navigation, and resource management, can make the process smoother.
In conclusion, locating and navigating the artifact caves in Aberration requires careful preparation, strong mounts, and a good understanding of the map's hazards. By following the strategies and tips outlined above, you can successfully retrieve the artifacts and progress towards summoning the Rockwell boss. Always be prepared for the unexpected and adapt your approach based on the challenges you encounter.
The Artifact of the Depths is located in the Elemental Vault, which is one of the most dangerous areas on the map. To reach this cave, head to the northeastern part of the map, near the Fertile Lake. The entrance is a large, glowing blue cave that descends into the depths of Aberration. Inside, you will encounter radiation, so bringing a Hazard Suit or a full set of Radiation Armor is essential. The cave is filled with hostile creatures like Nameless, Reapers, and Rock Drakes, so having a strong mount like a Rock Drake or a high-level Megalosaurus is highly recommended. The artifact is located deep within the cave, past several hazardous areas, so proceed carefully and be prepared for combat.
The Artifact of the Shadows is found in the Shadow Cave, located in the southwestern part of the map, near the Edge of the Spine. This cave is less dangerous than the Elemental Vault but still poses significant threats. The entrance is a narrow, dark passage that leads into a series of tunnels filled with Ravagers, Carnotaurus, and other predators. A good strategy is to bring a pack of tamed Ravagers, as they are fast, agile, and can carry resources. The artifact is located in a chamber deep within the cave, so be prepared to navigate tight spaces and deal with ambushes. Using a light pet like a Bulbdog or Shinehorn can help illuminate the dark areas and deter Nameless spawns.
The Artifact of the Stalker is located in the Old Railway Cave, which is in the central part of the map, near the Fertile Lake. This cave is relatively easier to navigate compared to the others but still requires caution. The entrance is a large, open tunnel that leads into a series of interconnected chambers. Inside, you will encounter creatures like Karkinos, Ravagers, and occasional Reapers. A strong mount like a Spino or a pack of Ravagers is recommended for this cave. The artifact is located in a chamber with a large, glowing mushroom, so keep an eye out for this landmark. Using climbing picks or a Rock Drake can help you navigate the vertical sections of the cave more efficiently.
Preparation is key when attempting to retrieve artifacts in Aberration. Ensure you have a Hazard Suit or Radiation Armor to protect against radiation, especially in the Elemental Vault. Bring plenty of medical brews, food, and water to sustain yourself during the journey. A good mount is essential, with Rock Drakes being the best option due to their climbing abilities and combat prowess. Light pets are also highly recommended to deter Nameless and provide illumination in dark areas.
Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the dangers of the caves, especially the Elemental Vault. Radiation, hostile creatures, and environmental hazards can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies, as the caves can be lengthy and resource-intensive. Always plan ahead and bring extra resources, including backup armor and weapons.
Advanced techniques include using climbing picks or a Rock Drake to navigate vertical sections of the caves more efficiently. This can help you avoid dangerous areas and reach the artifact faster. Another technique is to use a pack of Ravagers for their speed and resource-carrying capabilities, making it easier to transport loot and navigate tight spaces.
Resource requirements include a Hazard Suit or Radiation Armor, medical brews, food, water, and a strong mount. For solo players, it is especially important to bring a light pet and a reliable mount to handle the dangers of the caves. For tribes, coordinating with teammates to cover different roles, such as combat, navigation, and resource management, can make the process smoother.
In conclusion, locating and navigating the artifact caves in Aberration requires careful preparation, strong mounts, and a good understanding of the map's hazards. By following the strategies and tips outlined above, you can successfully retrieve the artifacts and progress towards summoning the Rockwell boss. Always be prepared for the unexpected and adapt your approach based on the challenges you encounter.