Where can I find the best metal spawns in the Crystal Isles map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, metal is one of the most important resources for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. On the Crystal Isles map, metal spawns are abundant, but some locations are far more efficient for farming than others. Understanding where to find the best metal spawns and how to optimize your farming process is crucial for progression, whether you are playing solo or as part of a tribe.

The best metal spawns on Crystal Isles are concentrated in specific regions, primarily in the high-altitude areas and volcanic biomes. The most notable locations include the Floating Islands, the Volcano, and the Emberfall region. These areas are rich in metal nodes, which appear as large, shiny rocks with a distinct metallic texture. To farm metal efficiently, you will need a strong gathering dinosaur, such as an Ankylosaurus, which has a high damage multiplier for harvesting metal. Alternatively, a Mantis with a high-quality pickaxe can also be effective, though it requires more preparation.

To begin farming metal, you should first prepare your equipment and dinosaurs. Ensure you have a high-level Ankylosaurus with points invested in melee damage, as this directly increases the amount of metal harvested per node. If you are playing solo, consider taming multiple Ankylosauruses or using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport them. For tribes, coordinating with teammates to bring multiple Ankylosauruses or using a Magmasaur, which can smelt metal while farming, can significantly increase efficiency.

Once you are ready, head to one of the high-yield metal locations. The Floating Islands, located in the northeastern part of the map, are one of the best spots. These islands are filled with metal nodes, and their elevated terrain makes it easier to spot and farm them. However, be cautious of the aggressive creatures in the area, such as Argentavis and Allosaurus. Bringing a strong combat dinosaur, like a Rex or Spino, to protect your Ankylosaurus is advisable.

The Volcano, located in the central-southern part of the map, is another excellent location for metal farming. This area is rich in metal nodes, but it is also extremely dangerous due to the high temperatures and hostile creatures like Carnotaurus and Raptors. Make sure to bring plenty of water and cooling items, such as Desert Cloth Armor or Medical Brews, to survive the heat. Additionally, the Emberfall region, near the Volcano, has dense metal spawns but requires careful navigation due to its rugged terrain.

When farming metal, it is important to avoid common mistakes. One major mistake is overloading your Ankylosaurus with too much metal, which can slow it down and make it vulnerable to attacks. Instead, use a weight-reducing dinosaur like a Argentavis or Quetzal to transport the metal back to your base. Another mistake is not bringing enough tools or backup dinosaurs. Always carry extra pickaxes or repair materials, as tools can break during extended farming sessions.

Advanced techniques can further optimize your metal farming. For example, using a Tek Parasaur with a resource scanner can help locate metal nodes more efficiently. Additionally, setting up a small outpost near high-yield metal areas with storage boxes and a forge can reduce travel time and allow you to smelt metal on-site. For tribes, assigning roles, such as one player gathering while another transports and smelts, can streamline the process.

Resource requirements and preparation are key to successful metal farming. Before heading out, ensure you have enough food, water, and tools for both yourself and your dinosaurs. Bring a Cryopod to store your Ankylosaurus if you need to travel long distances or escape danger. If you are farming in dangerous areas, consider bringing a few turrets or traps to defend your position.

In conclusion, the best metal spawns on Crystal Isles are found in the Floating Islands, Volcano, and Emberfall regions. Using a high-level Ankylosaurus or Magmasaur, along with proper preparation and strategy, will allow you to farm metal efficiently. Avoid common mistakes like overloading your dinosaurs or neglecting safety measures, and consider advanced techniques like setting up outposts or using Tek Parasaur scanners. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, these tips will help you gather the metal needed to progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.