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

Farming metal on the Extinction map in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial activity for progression, as metal is essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. Extinction offers several high-yield metal farming locations, but understanding the mechanics and strategies for efficient farming is key. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you maximize your metal gathering efforts.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of metal farming. Metal nodes are the primary source of metal and can be found in specific areas of the map. These nodes are typically found in rocky or mountainous regions and are distinguishable by their metallic, shiny appearance. When harvested with a pickaxe, metal pick, or a creature with high melee damage like an Ankylosaurus, these nodes yield metal ore. Metal ore must then be smelted in a forge to produce metal ingots, which are used in crafting. On Extinction, metal nodes are abundant in certain biomes, particularly the Snow Dome, Desert Dome, and the Wasteland.

To begin farming metal, youÔÇÖll need the right tools and creatures. An Ankylosaurus is the best creature for harvesting metal due to its high melee damage and weight reduction for metal. If you donÔÇÖt have an Ankylo, a high-quality metal pick will suffice, though itÔÇÖs less efficient. Additionally, youÔÇÖll need a strong creature for protection, such as a Rex or a pack of Raptors, as some metal-rich areas are populated by dangerous predators.

One of the best spots for metal farming on Extinction is the Snow Dome. This biome is located in the northern part of the map and is filled with metal nodes. To access the Snow Dome, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for cold weather by crafting fur armor or using a creature like an Otter to provide insulation. Once inside, youÔÇÖll find clusters of metal nodes scattered throughout the biome. The Ankylosaurus is particularly effective here, as it can harvest large amounts of metal quickly. Be cautious of the aggressive creatures in the area, such as Direwolves and Yetis, and ensure your protective creatures are ready to defend you.

Another excellent location is the Desert Dome, located in the southern part of the map. This biome is hot, so youÔÇÖll need desert gear or a creature like a Rock Drake to regulate your temperature. The Desert Dome has fewer metal nodes compared to the Snow Dome, but they are still plentiful and often found near the edges of the biome. The Wasteland, the central area of the map, also contains metal nodes, but this region is more dangerous due to the presence of corrupted creatures. If you choose to farm here, bring a strong mount and be prepared for combat.

When farming metal, itÔÇÖs important to manage your inventory and weight. Metal ore is heavy, so using an Ankylosaurus with high weight capacity or a weight-reducing creature like a Paraceratherium with a platform saddle and storage boxes can help. Additionally, consider setting up a temporary base or storage area near your farming location to reduce travel time. A small outpost with a forge and storage can significantly improve efficiency.

Common mistakes to avoid include overloading your inventory or creature, which can slow you down or leave you vulnerable to attacks. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to retreat if necessary. Another mistake is neglecting to bring enough resources for repairs or protection. Ensure you have extra tools, armor, and food to sustain your farming session.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport your Ankylosaurus to remote metal nodes. This allows you to access hard-to-reach areas and maximize your metal yield. Additionally, using a Tek Suit or Tek Transmitter can help you quickly transport large amounts of metal back to your base.

For solo players, farming metal can be more challenging due to the lack of support. Focus on taming a strong Ankylosaurus and a protective mount to ensure your safety. For tribes, coordinating efforts can make farming more efficient. Assign roles, such as one player harvesting metal while another protects or transports resources.

In summary, farming metal on Extinction requires preparation, the right tools and creatures, and knowledge of the best locations. The Snow Dome and Desert Dome are prime spots, but the Wasteland can also yield significant amounts of metal if youÔÇÖre prepared for the dangers. Manage your inventory, protect yourself from threats, and consider advanced techniques to optimize your farming. With these strategies, youÔÇÖll be able to gather the metal needed to progress and thrive in ARK: Survival Evolved.