Where can I find element dust on the Extinction map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Element Dust is a crucial resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, especially on the Extinction map, as it is used to craft advanced items like Element and Tek gear. On Extinction, Element Dust can be obtained in several ways, each requiring different strategies and preparations. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to find and farm Element Dust effectively.

First, Element Dust can be obtained by harvesting the remains of corrupted creatures. Corrupted creatures are hostile, aggressive versions of regular dinosaurs that spawn in the Wasteland biome. These creatures drop Element Dust when killed, and the amount varies depending on the creatureÔÇÖs size. For example, a Corrupted Parasaur will drop a small amount, while a Corrupted Rex will drop significantly more. To farm Element Dust this way, youÔÇÖll need to venture into the Wasteland, which is a dangerous area filled with high-level threats. ItÔÇÖs recommended to bring a strong tamed dinosaur, such as a Rex, Spino, or Giga, to handle the corrupted creatures. A high-damage weapon like a shotgun or assault rifle can also be useful for finishing off smaller corrupted creatures quickly.

Another method to obtain Element Dust is by harvesting the purple crystals found in the Wasteland and the Desert biomes. These crystals can be mined using a pickaxe or a mining drill. The mining drill is more efficient and yields more Element Dust per crystal, but it requires fuel and is a late-game item. If youÔÇÖre early in the game, a metal pickaxe will suffice, though it will take longer to gather a significant amount of dust. Be cautious when mining these crystals, as they are often guarded by corrupted creatures or other hostile dinosaurs. Bringing a tamed creature for protection is highly recommended.

A third way to acquire Element Dust is by breaking down Element Shards. Element Shards are a more common resource on Extinction and can be found in the Orbital Supply Drops or by defeating certain creatures like the Titans. Once you have Element Shards, you can place them in a Mortar and Pestle or a Chemistry Bench to grind them into Element Dust. This method is particularly useful if you have a surplus of Element Shards and need to convert them into dust for crafting purposes.

When farming Element Dust, preparation is key. Ensure you have a strong tamed dinosaur to protect you from the corrupted creatures and other threats in the Wasteland. A high-level Rex or Giga is ideal for this purpose. Additionally, bring plenty of healing items, such as medical brews or cooked meat, to keep yourself and your dinosaur alive during prolonged farming sessions. If youÔÇÖre mining crystals, make sure your tools are in good condition, and consider bringing a repair station or extra materials to repair them on the go.

For solo players, farming Element Dust can be challenging due to the high level of danger in the Wasteland. ItÔÇÖs advisable to start with smaller corrupted creatures and work your way up to larger ones as you gain confidence and better equipment. Solo players should also consider building a small outpost near the Wasteland to store resources and serve as a respawn point in case of death. For tribes, coordinating with teammates to cover each other and share resources can make the process much more efficient. Tribes can also assign roles, such as one player handling combat while another focuses on mining or harvesting.

Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into the Wasteland unprepared. The corrupted creatures are relentless and can quickly overwhelm you if youÔÇÖre not equipped with strong weapons or tames. Another mistake is neglecting to bring enough supplies, such as food, water, and repair materials, which can cut your farming session short. Additionally, avoid engaging multiple corrupted creatures at once, as they can swarm you and your tames, leading to a quick defeat.

Advanced techniques for farming Element Dust include using a Tek Suit to fly over the Wasteland and quickly locate corrupted creatures or crystals. The Tek SuitÔÇÖs mobility allows you to avoid ground threats and focus on your targets. Another advanced strategy is to use a Tek Rifle or Tek Sword to deal high damage to corrupted creatures, making the farming process faster and more efficient. However, these items require Element to craft and maintain, so they are best used by players who already have a steady supply of Element Dust.

In summary, Element Dust is a valuable resource on the Extinction map, and there are multiple ways to obtain it. Whether youÔÇÖre harvesting corrupted creatures, mining crystals, or breaking down Element Shards, preparation and strategy are key to success. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can efficiently farm Element Dust and progress further in the game.