How do I locate and harvest sulfur in the Valguero map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating and harvesting sulfur in the Valguero map of ARK: Survival Evolved requires a good understanding of the map's geography, resource distribution, and the tools or creatures needed to efficiently gather this resource. Sulfur is a valuable material used in crafting explosives, such as grenades and C4, making it essential for both PvP and PvE gameplay. Below is a detailed guide to help you find and harvest sulfur effectively.

First, it is important to know where sulfur spawns on the Valguero map. Sulfur is primarily found in the Chalk Hills region, which is located in the southwestern part of the map. This area is characterized by its white, chalky cliffs and is home to dangerous creatures like Allosaurus, Carnotaurus, and occasionally even a Giganotosaurus. The sulfur nodes in this region are bright yellow and stand out against the white terrain, making them relatively easy to spot once you are in the area. Additionally, sulfur can also be found in smaller quantities in the Aberration Trench, a cave-like biome located in the northwest part of the map. However, the Chalk Hills are the most reliable and abundant source of sulfur.

To harvest sulfur, you will need the right tools or creatures. The most basic tool for gathering sulfur is a metal pickaxe, which can be crafted using metal ingots and wood. However, using a pickaxe is not the most efficient method, as it yields a lower amount of sulfur per node. For better results, consider using a creature with high melee damage and harvesting capabilities, such as an Ankylosaurus or a Mantis. The Ankylosaurus is particularly effective because it has a natural bonus to harvesting metal and sulfur nodes, making it the go-to choice for many players. If you are using a Mantis, equip it with a high-quality pickaxe or hatchet in its hands to maximize the amount of sulfur you can gather.

Before heading to the Chalk Hills, it is crucial to prepare adequately. The area is dangerous, so bring a strong mount like a Rex, Spino, or even a Wyvern if you have one. These creatures will help you fend off predators and protect you while you harvest sulfur. Additionally, bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, as the Chalk Hills can be a harsh environment. If you are playing solo, consider setting up a small outpost nearby with a bed, storage, and a crafting station to minimize travel time. For tribes, coordinate with your teammates to ensure that someone is always on guard while others gather resources.

When you arrive at the Chalk Hills, start by scouting the area for sulfur nodes. They are usually found on the sides of cliffs or scattered across the ground. Once you locate a node, approach it with your Ankylosaurus or Mantis and begin harvesting. Be mindful of your surroundings, as predators can attack at any moment. If you are using an Ankylosaurus, its tail swipe can also damage nearby enemies, providing some level of protection while you gather. For Mantis users, keep an eye on the durability of the tool it is holding, as it will eventually break and need to be replaced.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of the Chalk Hills. The area is filled with aggressive creatures, and it is easy to get overwhelmed if you are not prepared. Always keep your mount close and be ready to fight or flee if necessary. Another mistake is not bringing enough tools or backup equipment. If your pickaxe or Mantis tool breaks, you will be unable to continue harvesting until you craft or find a replacement. To avoid this, bring multiple tools or repair materials with you.

For advanced players, consider using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport an Ankylosaurus or other harvesting creatures to the Chalk Hills. This allows you to quickly move between nodes and avoid ground-based threats. Additionally, you can use a Tek Suit to fly around the area and harvest sulfur nodes more efficiently, though this requires access to Tek-tier technology.

In terms of resource management, sulfur is heavy, so make sure you have enough carrying capacity or a creature with high weight stats to transport it back to your base. If you are playing in a tribe, assign roles to different members, such as one person gathering sulfur while another guards or transports the resources. This division of labor can significantly increase your efficiency.

In summary, locating and harvesting sulfur in Valguero requires careful preparation, the right tools or creatures, and a good understanding of the map's geography. The Chalk Hills are the best location for sulfur, but they are also dangerous, so always be on guard. Use an Ankylosaurus or Mantis for efficient harvesting, and consider advanced techniques like using a Quetzal or Tek Suit if you have access to them. By following these strategies, you can gather sulfur effectively and use it to craft powerful explosives for your survival needs.