Where can I find metal nodes on The Island map in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Metal nodes are one of the most important resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, as they are essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. On The Island map, metal nodes are primarily found in mountainous and rocky areas, with some scattered in other regions. To efficiently gather metal, you need to understand the mechanics of resource gathering, prepare properly, and use the right strategies.
First, metal nodes are large, shiny rocks with a metallic appearance. They are most commonly found in the mountains, particularly in the northern and western parts of the map. Key locations include the volcano in the center of the map, the mountains near the Snow Biome, and the cliffs around the Redwood Forest. These areas are rich in metal nodes, but they are also dangerous due to the presence of aggressive creatures like Carnotaurus, Raptors, and even the occasional Rex. Always be prepared for combat when venturing into these areas.
To gather metal, you need the right tools. A metal pickaxe is the most efficient tool for harvesting metal nodes, but a stone pickaxe will work in a pinch. Using a pickaxe on a metal node yields metal ore, which must be smelted in a forge to produce metal ingots. A hatchet can also be used on metal nodes, but it yields more stone than metal, so it is not recommended. Once you have a forge, you can smelt the metal ore into ingots, which are used for crafting.
Preparation is key when gathering metal. Bring a strong mount, such as a Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a Rex, to protect you from predators. A flying mount, like an Argentavis, is highly recommended for transporting large amounts of metal ore back to your base. Argentavis also has a weight reduction bonus for metal, making it ideal for this task. Additionally, bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, as the mountainous regions can be harsh and unforgiving.
When gathering metal, it is important to prioritize efficiency. Focus on the larger metal nodes, as they yield more ore. Smaller nodes are less efficient and should only be harvested if you are in a pinch. Always clear the area of predators before starting to mine, as being attacked while gathering can be deadly. If you are playing solo, consider building a small outpost near a metal-rich area with a bed, storage, and a forge. This allows you to smelt the metal on-site and reduce the number of trips you need to make.
One common mistake is overloading your mount or inventory with metal ore. Metal ore is extremely heavy, and carrying too much can slow you down or even immobilize you. Always keep an eye on your weight limit and make multiple trips if necessary. Another mistake is venturing into metal-rich areas without proper preparation. The mountains are home to some of the most dangerous creatures in the game, and being caught off guard can result in losing your gear and mount.
Advanced players can optimize their metal gathering by using a Quetzal with a platform saddle. This allows you to build a mobile base with forges and storage, enabling you to smelt metal on the go. Another advanced technique is using a Doedicurus to gather stone while you focus on metal. This ensures you have a steady supply of both resources. Additionally, using a Tek Transmitter or Cryopods can help you quickly transport large amounts of metal back to your base.
In a tribe setting, metal gathering can be more efficient. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person gathering metal while another protects them. Use a convoy of Argentavis or Quetzals to transport metal back to your base. Communication and coordination are key to maximizing efficiency and safety.
In conclusion, gathering metal on The Island map requires careful planning, the right tools, and a strong mount. Focus on the mountainous regions, prioritize larger nodes, and always be prepared for combat. Avoid common mistakes like overloading your inventory and venturing unprepared. Advanced techniques, such as using a Quetzal or Doedicurus, can further optimize your metal gathering. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, efficient metal gathering is essential for progressing in ARK: Survival Evolved.
First, metal nodes are large, shiny rocks with a metallic appearance. They are most commonly found in the mountains, particularly in the northern and western parts of the map. Key locations include the volcano in the center of the map, the mountains near the Snow Biome, and the cliffs around the Redwood Forest. These areas are rich in metal nodes, but they are also dangerous due to the presence of aggressive creatures like Carnotaurus, Raptors, and even the occasional Rex. Always be prepared for combat when venturing into these areas.
To gather metal, you need the right tools. A metal pickaxe is the most efficient tool for harvesting metal nodes, but a stone pickaxe will work in a pinch. Using a pickaxe on a metal node yields metal ore, which must be smelted in a forge to produce metal ingots. A hatchet can also be used on metal nodes, but it yields more stone than metal, so it is not recommended. Once you have a forge, you can smelt the metal ore into ingots, which are used for crafting.
Preparation is key when gathering metal. Bring a strong mount, such as a Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a Rex, to protect you from predators. A flying mount, like an Argentavis, is highly recommended for transporting large amounts of metal ore back to your base. Argentavis also has a weight reduction bonus for metal, making it ideal for this task. Additionally, bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, as the mountainous regions can be harsh and unforgiving.
When gathering metal, it is important to prioritize efficiency. Focus on the larger metal nodes, as they yield more ore. Smaller nodes are less efficient and should only be harvested if you are in a pinch. Always clear the area of predators before starting to mine, as being attacked while gathering can be deadly. If you are playing solo, consider building a small outpost near a metal-rich area with a bed, storage, and a forge. This allows you to smelt the metal on-site and reduce the number of trips you need to make.
One common mistake is overloading your mount or inventory with metal ore. Metal ore is extremely heavy, and carrying too much can slow you down or even immobilize you. Always keep an eye on your weight limit and make multiple trips if necessary. Another mistake is venturing into metal-rich areas without proper preparation. The mountains are home to some of the most dangerous creatures in the game, and being caught off guard can result in losing your gear and mount.
Advanced players can optimize their metal gathering by using a Quetzal with a platform saddle. This allows you to build a mobile base with forges and storage, enabling you to smelt metal on the go. Another advanced technique is using a Doedicurus to gather stone while you focus on metal. This ensures you have a steady supply of both resources. Additionally, using a Tek Transmitter or Cryopods can help you quickly transport large amounts of metal back to your base.
In a tribe setting, metal gathering can be more efficient. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person gathering metal while another protects them. Use a convoy of Argentavis or Quetzals to transport metal back to your base. Communication and coordination are key to maximizing efficiency and safety.
In conclusion, gathering metal on The Island map requires careful planning, the right tools, and a strong mount. Focus on the mountainous regions, prioritize larger nodes, and always be prepared for combat. Avoid common mistakes like overloading your inventory and venturing unprepared. Advanced techniques, such as using a Quetzal or Doedicurus, can further optimize your metal gathering. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, efficient metal gathering is essential for progressing in ARK: Survival Evolved.