Where can I find oil nodes on the Ragnarok map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Oil nodes are a crucial resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, especially on the Ragnarok map, as they are used to craft advanced items like gasoline, polymer, and various industrial structures. Finding oil nodes on Ragnarok requires knowledge of the map's geography and the specific biomes where these resources are concentrated. Below is a detailed guide to help you locate and harvest oil nodes effectively.

Oil nodes on Ragnarok are primarily found in two main areas: the desert biome and the snowy mountains. In the desert biome, oil nodes are scattered across the sandy dunes, often near the edges of cliffs or in rocky outcrops. These nodes are easy to spot due to their black, tar-like appearance. In the snowy mountains, oil nodes are located in the higher elevations, often near metal and crystal deposits. These nodes are harder to access due to the cold weather and the presence of dangerous creatures like direwolves and yetis.

To harvest oil nodes, you will need a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. A pickaxe yields more oil per node, but a hatchet can also be used if you donÔÇÖt have a pickaxe available. For more efficient harvesting, consider using a high-level Ankylosaurus or a Mantis with a pickaxe attachment. These creatures can gather oil much faster and in larger quantities than hand tools. Additionally, if you have access to a Tek Stryder, it can be equipped with a mining drill to harvest oil nodes with extreme efficiency.

Preparation is key when venturing into the desert or snowy mountains for oil. In the desert, bring plenty of water and wear desert cloth armor to combat the heat. In the snowy mountains, wear fur armor and carry medical brews or cooked meat to counteract the cold and heal from potential attacks by predators. ItÔÇÖs also wise to bring a flying mount like an Argentavis or a Wyvern to carry the harvested oil back to your base, as oil is heavy and can quickly encumber you.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of these biomes. The desert is home to creatures like Deathworms and Rock Elementals, while the snowy mountains are filled with aggressive predators. Always scout the area before landing and ensure you have a clear escape route. Another mistake is not bringing enough tools or backup equipment. Oil nodes can take a while to harvest, and your tools may break, leaving you stranded without a way to gather resources.

For advanced players, consider setting up a small outpost near oil-rich areas. This can include a bed for respawning, storage boxes for resources, and a forge to smelt metal on-site. This reduces the need for multiple trips and allows you to process materials immediately. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to establish a permanent mining operation. Assign roles such as defenders, gatherers, and transporters to maximize efficiency.

Resource requirements for oil gathering are relatively simple. YouÔÇÖll need a pickaxe or hatchet, a flying mount, and appropriate armor for the biome. If youÔÇÖre using a creature like an Ankylosaurus, ensure it has enough health and stamina to survive encounters with predators. For solo players, itÔÇÖs especially important to plan your route carefully and avoid overextending. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to retreat if necessary.

In specific scenarios, such as early-game oil gathering, you may not have access to advanced tools or mounts. In this case, focus on the desert biome, as it is generally safer than the snowy mountains. Use a Parasaur or Raptor to carry the oil back to your base, and avoid areas with high predator density. As you progress, upgrade to better tools and mounts to increase your efficiency.

In conclusion, finding and harvesting oil nodes on the Ragnarok map requires careful planning, the right equipment, and an understanding of the mapÔÇÖs biomes. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, prioritize safety and efficiency to ensure a steady supply of this valuable resource. With the right strategy, you can dominate the oil-rich regions of Ragnarok and fuel your progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.