Where are the best spots for farming metal on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming metal on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a good understanding of the map's layout, resource distribution, and the tools or creatures needed to gather metal efficiently. Metal is one of the most important resources in the game, used for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. On Scorched Earth, metal nodes are primarily found in rocky and mountainous areas, with some of the best spots located in the northern and western regions of the map.

To begin farming metal, you will need a few essential tools and creatures. A metal pickaxe is the most basic tool for harvesting metal, but using a creature like an Ankylosaurus or a Mantis with a high-damage pick is far more efficient. Ankylosaurus is particularly effective because it has a weight reduction for metal, allowing you to carry more before becoming encumbered. Additionally, having a flying mount like an Argentavis or a Wyvern is crucial for transporting heavy loads of metal back to your base. Argentavis is especially useful because it also has a weight reduction for metal and can carry an Ankylosaurus, making it a versatile choice for metal farming.

One of the best spots for farming metal on Scorched Earth is the northern mountains, specifically around the coordinates 20, 30. This area is rich in metal nodes and is relatively close to the central part of the map, making it accessible for most players. Another excellent location is the western mountains near the coordinates 10, 50. These areas are densely populated with metal nodes, but they are also more dangerous due to the presence of predators like Carnotaurus and Rock Elementals. It is essential to clear the area of threats before starting to farm metal.

When farming metal, it is important to have a strategy in place to maximize efficiency. Start by scouting the area with your flying mount to locate the metal nodes and identify any potential dangers. Once you have a clear path, land your Ankylosaurus near the nodes and begin harvesting. Use the Ankylosaurus's tail swipe attack to break the nodes quickly. After gathering a significant amount of metal, transfer it to your Argentavis to reduce the weight and make it easier to transport. If you are playing solo, you may need to make multiple trips to gather enough metal for your needs. However, if you are in a tribe, you can coordinate with other players to gather and transport metal more efficiently.

One common mistake to avoid is overloading your Ankylosaurus or Argentavis with too much metal. While these creatures have weight reductions for metal, they can still become encumbered if you gather too much at once. To avoid this, keep an eye on the weight limit and make sure to transfer metal to your inventory or storage containers as needed. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies, such as food, water, and tools for repairs. Scorched Earth is a harsh environment, and running out of supplies can leave you vulnerable to the elements or predators.

Advanced techniques for metal farming include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry an Ankylosaurus. This setup allows you to farm metal from the safety of the air, reducing the risk of encountering dangerous creatures. Additionally, you can use a Doedicurus to gather stone while farming metal, as stone is often found near metal nodes and is useful for crafting. Another optimization is to build a small outpost near the metal-rich areas with storage containers and a bed. This allows you to store metal on-site and respawn nearby if you die, saving time and resources.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial for successful metal farming. Before heading out, make sure you have enough food, water, and tools for repairs. Bring a few extra pickaxes or repair materials for your Ankylosaurus, as they can wear out quickly. If you are using an Argentavis, consider bringing a few extra saddles or repair materials for it as well. Additionally, bring a few parachutes in case you need to make a quick escape from a dangerous situation.

Tribe and solo considerations play a significant role in metal farming. In a tribe, you can divide tasks among members, with some players gathering metal while others transport it back to the base. This allows for faster and more efficient farming. Solo players, on the other hand, will need to manage all aspects of farming and transportation themselves. It is important to plan your trips carefully and make sure you have enough time and resources to complete the task.

Specific examples and scenarios can help illustrate the process of metal farming. For instance, imagine you are a solo player with an Ankylosaurus and an Argentavis. You fly to the northern mountains near coordinates 20, 30 and land your Ankylosaurus near a cluster of metal nodes. After harvesting the nodes, you transfer the metal to your Argentavis and fly back to your base. On the way, you encounter a Carnotaurus, but you manage to escape by flying high into the air. Once back at your base, you store the metal in a storage container and repair your tools before heading out again. This scenario highlights the importance of preparation, strategy, and adaptability when farming metal on Scorched Earth.

In conclusion, farming metal on the Scorched Earth map requires careful planning, the right tools and creatures, and a good understanding of the map's layout. By following the strategies and tips outlined above, you can efficiently gather metal and ensure your survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, metal farming is a crucial aspect of the game that can greatly enhance your ability to build, craft, and defend your base.