How do I locate obsidian on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating obsidian on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a good understanding of the map's geography and resource distribution. Obsidian is a crucial resource used for crafting advanced items like polymer, electronics, and certain structures. On Scorched Earth, obsidian is less abundant compared to other maps, but it can still be found in specific locations. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you locate and gather obsidian effectively.

First, you need to know where to look. On Scorched Earth, obsidian is primarily found in the mountainous regions and rocky outcrops. The most reliable locations are the high-altitude areas near the Red Obelisk and the surrounding cliffs. These areas are often rich in metal nodes and obsidian deposits. Another good spot is the canyon area near the Green Obelisk, where obsidian can be found alongside other valuable resources like crystal and metal. The dunes and desert areas generally do not contain obsidian, so focus your search on the rocky and elevated regions.

To gather obsidian, you will need the right tools. A metal pickaxe is essential for efficient harvesting. Using a stone pickaxe will yield significantly less obsidian, so prioritize crafting a metal pickaxe as soon as possible. Additionally, having a high-level Ankylosaurus can greatly increase your obsidian gathering efficiency. The Ankylosaurus has a natural affinity for harvesting metal and obsidian, making it an invaluable companion for resource runs. If you donÔÇÖt have an Ankylosaurus, a high-level Doedicurus can also be useful, though it is less efficient for obsidian specifically.

Preparation is key when venturing out to gather obsidian. Scorched Earth is a harsh environment with extreme temperatures, so ensure you have adequate supplies of water and food. Bring a water jar or canteen to stay hydrated, and consider wearing desert cloth armor to mitigate the heat. Additionally, bring a few beds or sleeping bags to set up temporary respawn points in case of emergencies. ItÔÇÖs also wise to bring a flying mount like an Argentavis or a Wyvern to carry heavy loads and navigate the terrain quickly.

When you arrive at the obsidian-rich areas, start by scouting the location for any potential threats. Scorched Earth is home to dangerous creatures like Rock Elementals, which can be found in the mountainous regions. These creatures are slow but extremely tough, so itÔÇÖs best to avoid them if possible. If you encounter a Rock Elemental, use your flying mount to stay out of its reach and lure it away from the resource nodes. Once the area is clear, dismount and start harvesting the obsidian with your metal pickaxe or Ankylosaurus.

One common mistake is not bringing enough storage capacity. Obsidian is heavy, and you can quickly become encumbered if you donÔÇÖt have a way to transport it efficiently. Use a high-weight mount like an Argentavis or a Paraceratherium to carry the obsidian back to your base. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider making multiple trips or setting up a temporary storage box near the resource nodes to store the obsidian until you can transport it.

Advanced techniques involve optimizing your resource gathering process. If you have a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to maximize efficiency. One player can focus on harvesting while another handles transportation and defense. Additionally, consider setting up a small outpost near the obsidian-rich areas with basic defenses and storage. This can serve as a staging point for your resource runs and reduce the time spent traveling back and forth.

In terms of resource management, prioritize gathering obsidian when you have a clear need for it. Obsidian is used in advanced crafting recipes, so itÔÇÖs not something youÔÇÖll need in large quantities early in the game. Focus on gathering other essential resources like metal and crystal first, and then move on to obsidian when youÔÇÖre ready to craft advanced items.

Finally, always be prepared for the unexpected. Scorched EarthÔÇÖs weather can change rapidly, and you may encounter sandstorms or heatwaves that can hinder your progress. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan your resource runs accordingly. If a sandstorm hits, seek shelter and wait it out before continuing your search for obsidian.

In summary, locating and gathering obsidian on Scorched Earth requires careful planning and preparation. Focus on the mountainous regions near the Red and Green Obelisks, use the right tools and mounts, and be mindful of the environment and potential threats. With these strategies, youÔÇÖll be able to efficiently gather obsidian and advance your crafting capabilities in ARK: Survival Evolved.