Where are the best spots for farming obsidian in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming obsidian in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for players looking to craft advanced items like polymer, electronics, and high-tier structures. Obsidian is a rare resource found in specific locations across the maps, and gathering it efficiently requires preparation, strategy, and the right tools. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm obsidian effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Obsidian is primarily found in mountainous regions and volcanic areas. On The Island map, the best spots for obsidian are the volcano in the center of the map, the mountains in the northwest (Snow Biome), and the mountain near the Red Obelisk. On other maps like Scorched Earth, obsidian is found in the mountains and rocky areas, while on Ragnarok, it is abundant in the highlands and the volcano region. Obsidian nodes are black, shiny rocks that stand out from regular stone nodes. To harvest obsidian, you need a tool with high gathering efficiency, such as a metal pickaxe, an Ankylosaurus, or a Magmasaur. The Ankylosaurus is particularly effective because it has a weight reduction for obsidian and can gather large amounts quickly.

Before heading out to farm obsidian, you need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have the right tools or dinosaurs. If you are using an Ankylosaurus, level its melee damage and weight to maximize efficiency. If you are solo, consider taming a high-level Ankylosaurus and equipping it with a platform saddle to carry additional weight. For tribes, multiple players can use Ankylosauruses or Magmasaurs to speed up the process. Bring a flying mount like an Argentavis or a Quetzal to transport the Ankylosaurus and carry the obsidian back to your base. Argentavis is ideal because it has a weight reduction for metal and obsidian, making it easier to transport large quantities.

When farming obsidian, always scout the area first to ensure it is safe. Mountainous regions are often populated by dangerous creatures like Rexes, Carnotaurus, and Raptors. Clear the area of threats before starting to farm. If you are using an Ankylosaurus, position it near the obsidian nodes and use its tail attack to harvest the resource. Be mindful of its weight limit, as obsidian is heavy. If you are solo, you may need to make multiple trips or use a Quetzal to carry the Ankylosaurus and the obsidian. For tribes, one player can focus on harvesting while another transports the resources using a flying mount.

One common mistake is not bringing enough weight capacity or forgetting to clear the area of threats. Always bring a strong mount or weapon to defend yourself and your dinosaurs. Another mistake is not using the right tools. A metal pickaxe is better than a stone one, but an Ankylosaurus is far more efficient. Additionally, avoid overloading your dinosaurs, as this will slow them down and make them vulnerable to attacks. Always monitor your surroundings and be ready to retreat if necessary.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry an Ankylosaurus directly to the obsidian nodes. This allows you to farm obsidian in hard-to-reach areas without worrying about ground threats. Another technique is to build a small outpost near the farming location to store obsidian temporarily. This reduces the need for multiple trips and allows you to focus on gathering. For tribes, coordinating roles can significantly increase efficiency. One player can focus on harvesting, another on transporting, and a third on defending the group.

Resource requirements for farming obsidian include a metal pickaxe, a strong mount like an Ankylosaurus or Magmasaur, and a flying mount for transportation. You may also need weapons and armor to defend against hostile creatures. Preparing food, water, and medical supplies is essential, especially if you are farming in dangerous areas. For tribes, communication and role assignment are key to maximizing efficiency. Solo players should focus on taming a high-level Ankylosaurus and using a flying mount to transport resources.

In conclusion, farming obsidian in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, strategy, and the right tools. By using an Ankylosaurus or Magmasaur, scouting the area, and coordinating with your tribe, you can gather large amounts of obsidian efficiently. Avoid common mistakes like overloading your dinosaurs or neglecting defense, and consider advanced techniques like using a Quetzal with a platform saddle. With the right approach, you can secure the obsidian needed for advanced crafting and progression in the game.