How do I find and harvest rare resources like red gems in the Crystal Isles map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

Finding and harvesting rare resources like red gems in the Crystal Isles map of ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and knowledge of the map's unique features. Red gems are a valuable resource used in crafting advanced items and structures, and they are primarily found in specific locations on the Crystal Isles map. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you locate and harvest red gems effectively.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand where red gems are located. On the Crystal Isles map, red gems are primarily found in the Floating Islands biome, which is a visually stunning area filled with floating landmasses and crystal formations. These gems are embedded in the red crystal nodes scattered throughout this biome. To reach the Floating Islands, youÔÇÖll need a flying mount, such as an Argentavis, Pteranodon, or Wyvern, as the islands are high above the ground and inaccessible by foot.

Before heading to the Floating Islands, ensure you are well-prepared. Bring a strong pickaxe or a metal hatchet, as these tools are essential for harvesting red gems efficiently. Additionally, pack enough food, water, and medical supplies to sustain yourself during the trip. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider bringing a tamed creature like an Ankylosaurus or a Doedicurus to help carry the heavy resources. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks, such as one person gathering resources while another provides protection from hostile creatures.

When you arrive at the Floating Islands, look for the red crystal nodes. These nodes are large, glowing red crystals that stand out against the environment. Approach the node and use your pickaxe or hatchet to harvest it. Each node will yield a significant amount of red gems, but be prepared for the weight, as red gems are heavy. If youÔÇÖre using a mount, ensure it has enough weight capacity to carry the gems back to your base.

One important tip is to be cautious of the environment. The Floating Islands are home to dangerous creatures like Wyverns and other predators. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to defend yourself or retreat if necessary. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider taming a strong combat mount like a Rex or Spino to accompany you and provide protection. In a tribe, assign roles such as a scout to watch for threats while others focus on gathering resources.

A common mistake to avoid is overloading your inventory or mount with too many resources. Red gems are heavy, and carrying too many can slow you down or prevent you from flying. To avoid this, make multiple trips if necessary or use a weight-reducing mount like a Argentavis, which has a weight reduction for certain resources. Additionally, always have a backup plan in case you encounter unexpected dangers, such as a nearby base or a safe spot to retreat to.

For advanced players, consider setting up a small outpost near the Floating Islands to store resources and serve as a safe haven. This can save time and reduce the risk of losing resources during transit. You can also use a Quetzal with a platform saddle to create a mobile base, allowing you to harvest and store resources on the go. Another optimization is to use a Tek suit or other advanced equipment to increase your mobility and efficiency while gathering resources.

In terms of resource requirements, ensure you have enough tools and equipment to sustain your trip. Bring extra pickaxes or hatchets in case they break, and consider crafting a repair station on your mount or at your outpost. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, assign someone to manage the resources and ensure everyone has the necessary tools and supplies.

Finally, always be mindful of the time and effort required to gather red gems. While they are valuable, they are not always easy to obtain, especially in dangerous areas like the Floating Islands. Plan your trips carefully, and donÔÇÖt hesitate to retreat if the situation becomes too risky. With proper preparation and strategy, you can successfully harvest red gems and use them to advance your gameplay in ARK: Survival Evolved.