What are the safest ways to gather resources in the Desert Biome on Ragnarok in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Desert Biome on Ragnarok in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging areas to gather resources due to its harsh environment and dangerous creatures. However, with proper preparation and strategy, you can safely collect valuable resources like metal, crystal, sulfur, and organic polymer. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you navigate this biome effectively.

First, understanding the mechanics of the Desert Biome is crucial. The area is extremely hot during the day, causing rapid dehydration and heatstroke if youÔÇÖre not prepared. At night, temperatures drop significantly, but the cold is less dangerous than the heat. The biome is home to aggressive creatures like Wyverns, Deathworms, and Mantises, which can easily overwhelm unprepared players. Additionally, sandstorms can reduce visibility and drain stamina, making movement and combat more difficult.

To gather resources safely, start by preparing your character and equipment. Craft a full set of Desert Cloth Armor to reduce heatstroke and dehydration. Bring plenty of water, either in Waterskins or Canteens, and consider using a Jerboa to help predict weather changes. A high-level tame like a Thylacoleo or Sabertooth can help you navigate the terrain and fend off predators. For resource gathering, bring a Metal Pick, Metal Hatchet, and a high-weight mount like a Mammoth or Ankylosaurus.

When entering the Desert Biome, avoid traveling during the day if possible. The heat is less intense at dawn, dusk, and night, making these times safer for exploration. Stick to the edges of the biome initially, as the center is more dangerous and home to Wyverns and Deathworms. Use your mount to scout the area and identify resource nodes like metal rocks, crystal formations, and sulfur deposits. Be cautious of Mantises, as they can dismount you and deal significant damage.

For metal and crystal, head to the rocky outcrops and cliffs scattered throughout the biome. These areas are rich in resources but often guarded by predators. Clear the area of threats before dismounting to gather materials. Use your Ankylosaurus for metal and your Pick for crystal to maximize efficiency. Sulfur can be found near the sulfur fields in the southern part of the desert, but beware of Deathworms that burrow underground. Use a high-damage mount like a Rex or Spino to deal with them quickly.

Organic polymer is another valuable resource in the Desert Biome, found by killing Mantises and harvesting their bodies. However, Mantises are dangerous and often travel in groups. Use a ranged weapon like a Crossbow or Longneck Rifle to take them down from a distance, or rely on a strong mount to handle them in melee combat. Be sure to harvest their bodies quickly, as organic polymer spoils rapidly.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the Desert Biome. Players often enter without proper gear or mounts, leading to dehydration, heatstroke, or death by predators. Always bring extra supplies and avoid overextending yourself. Another mistake is ignoring the weather. Sandstorms can make it difficult to see and move, so use your Jerboa to predict them and take shelter if necessary.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal or Argentavis to transport heavy resources like metal and crystal. These flying mounts can carry Ankylosauruses or Doedicuruses, allowing you to gather and transport large quantities of materials efficiently. Additionally, building a small outpost near the edge of the desert can serve as a safe haven to store resources and recover from the heat.

Resource requirements and preparation are key to success in the Desert Biome. Ensure you have enough food, water, and medical supplies before venturing in. Crafting a Bed or Sleeping Bag at your outpost can provide a respawn point in case of death. For tribes, coordinating resource gathering with multiple players can increase efficiency and safety. Assign roles, such as one player scouting for threats while another gathers resources.

In solo play, focus on mobility and self-sufficiency. Use a fast mount like a Raptor or Thylacoleo to escape danger quickly. Always have an escape plan and avoid engaging large groups of predators unless necessary. For example, if you encounter a Deathworm, itÔÇÖs often better to flee than to fight unless youÔÇÖre well-prepared.

Specific scenarios include dealing with Wyverns, which are highly aggressive and can easily kill unprepared players. If you spot a Wyvern, avoid drawing its attention and use terrain to break line of sight. Alternatively, use a high-damage mount or ranged weapons to take it down from a safe distance. Another scenario is navigating sandstorms. During a sandstorm, reduce movement to conserve stamina and use a tent or shelter to wait it out.

In conclusion, gathering resources in the Desert Biome on Ragnarok requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and awareness of the environment. By following these steps and tips, you can safely collect valuable materials and avoid the many dangers of this harsh biome. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and efficiency to make the most of your time in the desert.