How do I locate the artifact of the Depths in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating the Artifact of the Depths in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task, as this artifact is essential for summoning the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. The Artifact of the Depths is found in the Lower South Cave, also known as the Chitin Cave, located on The Island map. This cave is one of the easier caves to navigate, but it still requires careful preparation and strategy to successfully retrieve the artifact.

To begin, you need to locate the Lower South Cave. It is situated in the southern part of The Island, near the coastline. The cave entrance is at approximately 68.2 latitude and 56.1 longitude. The entrance is relatively small and can be easily missed if you are not paying attention. Once you find the entrance, you will need to prepare for the journey inside. The cave is filled with hostile creatures such as Araneo (giant spiders), Titanoboa (giant snakes), and Onyc (bats), so you will need to bring appropriate gear and possibly a strong dinosaur companion.

Before entering the cave, it is crucial to prepare adequately. You will need a good set of armor, preferably flak armor or better, to protect yourself from the cave's inhabitants. Bring a strong weapon, such as a shotgun or a longneck rifle, along with plenty of ammunition. It is also a good idea to bring medical brews or stimulants to counteract the torpor effects from the Araneo and Titanoboa. Additionally, bring a few grappling hooks and a parachute in case you need to escape quickly or navigate tricky terrain.

When it comes to dinosaur companions, a high-level Carnotaurus or Sabertooth is a good choice for this cave. These dinosaurs are fast and strong enough to handle the cave's creatures. Alternatively, a pack of high-level Direwolves can be very effective, as they can quickly take down enemies and provide a good amount of protection. Make sure your dinosaur is well-fed and has a saddle for added protection.

Once inside the cave, you will need to navigate through a series of tunnels and chambers. The cave is relatively linear, but there are a few twists and turns that can be confusing if you are not paying attention. Keep an eye out for the glowing blue artifact crate, which contains the Artifact of the Depths. The crate is usually located in a large chamber near the end of the cave. Be cautious as you approach the artifact, as this area is often heavily guarded by Araneo and Titanoboa.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the cave's inhabitants. The Araneo and Titanoboa can quickly overwhelm you if you are not prepared. Make sure to clear out the area around the artifact before attempting to retrieve it. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of ammunition or medical supplies in the middle of the cave can be disastrous, so always bring more than you think you will need.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations you can make to streamline the process. Using a high-level Baryonyx can be very effective, as it is fast, strong, and can swim, which is useful for navigating the cave's water sections. Additionally, using a grappling hook to bypass certain areas or quickly escape from danger can save you a lot of time and resources.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a good amount of metal, hide, and fiber to craft the necessary gear and ammunition. Make sure to stock up on these resources before attempting the cave. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure everyone is well-equipped and ready for the challenge. Solo players should take extra care to prepare thoroughly, as there is no backup if things go wrong.

In conclusion, locating the Artifact of the Depths in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strong gear, and a good strategy. By following these steps and tips, you can successfully navigate the Lower South Cave and retrieve the artifact. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, make sure to stay vigilant and be ready for anything the cave throws at you. Good luck, and happy hunting!