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

Locating the Artifact of the Gatekeeper in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical step for players aiming to summon the Dragon boss, one of the game's most challenging encounters. This artifact is found in the Caverns of Lost Faith, a cave system located on the western side of the Island map. The process of obtaining the artifact involves navigating a dangerous underwater cave filled with hostile creatures, environmental hazards, and limited oxygen. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully retrieve the Artifact of the Gatekeeper.

The Caverns of Lost Faith is an underwater cave, which means you will need to prepare for an aquatic expedition. The first step is to gather the necessary resources and equipment. You will need scuba gear, including a scuba tank, mask, and flippers, to extend your underwater breathing time and improve mobility. Additionally, bring a strong underwater mount, such as a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Tusoteuthis, to help you navigate the cave and fend off hostile creatures. A Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the jellyfish and eels that can stun or dismount you. You should also bring weapons like a crossbow or harpoon gun for defense, as well as medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount.

Before entering the cave, ensure you have a clear path marked on your map. The entrance to the Caverns of Lost Faith is located at approximately 19.1 latitude and 85.5 longitude, near the western coast of the Island. The cave entrance is underwater, so you will need to dive down to find it. Once inside, the cave is a maze of tunnels filled with dangerous creatures like Megalodons, Eurypterids, and Cnidaria. These creatures can quickly overwhelm you if you are not prepared, so stay alert and use your mount to fight them off.

As you navigate the cave, keep an eye out for air pockets where you can surface and replenish your oxygen. These pockets are scattered throughout the cave and can be lifesavers if you run out of air. The Artifact of the Gatekeeper is located in a large chamber deep within the cave. To reach it, follow the main tunnel until you come to a fork. Take the left path, and you will eventually arrive at the artifact chamber. Be cautious, as this area is often guarded by powerful creatures.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of the cave. The underwater environment limits your mobility and makes combat more challenging. Additionally, the cave's tight spaces can make it difficult to maneuver, especially if you are using a large mount. To avoid getting stuck, use a smaller mount like a Basilosaurus or bring a cryopod to store and deploy your mount as needed. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of oxygen or healing items can quickly lead to death, so always bring extras.

Advanced players can optimize their approach by using a combination of mounts and tools. For example, a Tusoteuthis can be used to grab and kill smaller creatures, while a Basilosaurus provides immunity to stuns. You can also use grappling hooks to navigate tricky areas or escape dangerous situations. Additionally, bringing a tribe member can make the expedition easier, as you can divide tasks like fighting creatures and carrying supplies.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of materials to craft scuba gear and weapons. Metal, silica pearls, and hide are essential for crafting scuba gear, while polymer and cementing paste are needed for weapons. Make sure to stock up on these resources before attempting the cave. If you are playing solo, consider building a small outpost near the cave entrance to store supplies and respawn if needed.

In conclusion, retrieving the Artifact of the Gatekeeper requires careful preparation, a strong underwater mount, and a clear strategy. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully navigate the Caverns of Lost Faith and obtain the artifact. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, this expedition is a challenging but rewarding experience that will bring you one step closer to summoning the Dragon boss.