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

Locating the Artifact of the Gatekeeper in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial step for players aiming to summon the Dragon boss, one of the game's most challenging encounters. This artifact is found in the Caverns of Lost Faith, a cave system located on the western side of the Island map. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully navigate this task, covering mechanics, strategies, and important considerations.

The Caverns of Lost Faith is an underwater cave, which means you will need to prepare for aquatic exploration. The cave is home to dangerous creatures such as Megalodons, Eurypterids, and Cnidaria, so proper preparation is essential. Before entering the cave, ensure you have a strong aquatic mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a high-level Megalodon. These creatures provide both mobility and protection in the water. Additionally, bring scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. A good crossbow or harpoon gun with tranq arrows is also useful for dealing with aggressive creatures.

To locate the cave, head to the western coast of the Island map, near coordinates 19.1 latitude and 19.1 longitude. The entrance is underwater, marked by a large rock formation. Once inside, follow the cave's winding paths, being cautious of tight spaces and hostile creatures. The artifact is located in a small chamber near the end of the cave. It is guarded by a group of creatures, so be prepared for a fight. Clear the area before attempting to retrieve the artifact.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the cave's dangers. The Caverns of Lost Faith is not only filled with aggressive creatures but also has narrow passages that can trap you or your mount. Always scout ahead and avoid rushing into unknown areas. Another mistake is neglecting to bring enough supplies. Running out of oxygen or food while deep in the cave can be fatal. Always carry extra resources, such as medical brews and food, to sustain yourself during the expedition.

Advanced techniques include using a Baryonyx or a Tuso (Tusoteuthis) for cave exploration. The Baryonyx is highly maneuverable and can stun smaller creatures with its tail spin attack, making it ideal for navigating tight spaces. The Tuso, on the other hand, is a powerful aquatic mount that can grab and incapacitate enemies, providing excellent crowd control. Both mounts can make the cave exploration significantly easier.

Resource requirements for this task include a strong aquatic mount, scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder, weapons, and medical supplies. If you are playing solo, consider taming a Basilosaurus, as it is immune to the stun effects of Cnidaria and provides a good balance of health and damage. For tribes, coordinating with teammates to bring multiple mounts and supplies can make the expedition smoother. Assign roles, such as one player focusing on combat while another handles navigation and resource management.

In specific scenarios, you might encounter a large group of Eurypterids or a high-level Alpha Megalodon. In such cases, use hit-and-run tactics to whittle down their health without getting overwhelmed. If you are using a Basilosaurus, its immunity to stun effects will be invaluable against Cnidaria. For tribes, having a Tuso can help control the battlefield by grabbing and incapacitating dangerous creatures, allowing other players to focus on retrieving the artifact.

In conclusion, locating the Artifact of the Gatekeeper requires careful preparation, a strong aquatic mount, and a clear strategy. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully navigate the Caverns of Lost Faith and retrieve the artifact. Always be mindful of the cave's dangers, bring enough supplies, and consider using advanced techniques and mounts to optimize your chances of success. Whether playing solo or with a tribe, proper planning and execution are key to overcoming this challenging task in ARK: Survival Evolved.