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

Locating the Artifact of the Cunning in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful preparation and strategy. This artifact is one of the key items needed to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. The Artifact of the Cunning is located in the Central Cave, also known as the Lower South Cave, on The Island map. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully retrieve this artifact.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. The Central Cave is a relatively small but dangerous cave system filled with hostile creatures such as bats, spiders, and scorpions. The cave is also dark, so youÔÇÖll need a light source to navigate effectively. The Artifact of the Cunning is located deep within the cave, and youÔÇÖll need to navigate through narrow passages and avoid or defeat the creatures that guard it. The caveÔÇÖs entrance is located at approximately 41.5 latitude and 46.9 longitude, near the southern part of the map.

To prepare for this expedition, youÔÇÖll need to gather the right resources and equipment. Bring a strong weapon like a shotgun or crossbow, as well as plenty of ammunition. Armor is essential, so craft a set of flak armor or better to protect yourself from the caveÔÇÖs inhabitants. A good light source, such as a torch or mining helmet, is crucial for visibility. Additionally, bring medical supplies like stimulants, antidotes, and healing items to counteract poison and heal from damage. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider taming a strong creature like a Sabertooth or Direwolf to help you fight through the cave. These creatures are fast and can handle the smaller enemies effectively.

When entering the cave, be cautious of the narrow pathways and sudden drops. The cave is filled with pitfalls, so move carefully to avoid falling. As you progress, youÔÇÖll encounter groups of bats, spiders, and scorpions. Use your weapon or tamed creature to clear them out. Be mindful of the spidersÔÇÖ poison, which can slow you down and drain your health. Use antidotes or stimulants to counteract these effects. The caveÔÇÖs layout can be confusing, so take your time to navigate and avoid getting lost.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the caveÔÇÖs difficulty. Even though itÔÇÖs one of the easier caves, the creatures inside can overwhelm you if youÔÇÖre not prepared. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of ammunition or healing items mid-cave can leave you vulnerable. Always overprepare when venturing into caves, as itÔÇÖs better to have extra supplies than to be caught off guard.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations you can make. If you have access to cryopods, consider bringing a larger creature like a Baryonyx or Thylacoleo. These creatures are excellent for cave exploration due to their mobility and combat abilities. Additionally, using grappling hooks can help you navigate tricky areas and avoid falls. If youÔÇÖre playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover different roles, such as one person focusing on combat while another handles healing and navigation.

Resource management is key during this expedition. Make sure you have enough food, water, and stamina to last through the cave. If youÔÇÖre using a tamed creature, bring extra food for it as well. Keep an eye on your inventory space, as the cave contains valuable resources like crystal and metal that you may want to collect on your way out.

In summary, retrieving the Artifact of the Cunning requires careful preparation, strong equipment, and a good strategy. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, make sure to bring the right tools and creatures to handle the caveÔÇÖs challenges. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating the caveÔÇÖs difficulty or running out of supplies. With the right approach, youÔÇÖll be able to navigate the Central Cave, defeat its inhabitants, and claim the Artifact of the Cunning for your collection.