Where are the best locations to farm polymer and organic polymer on Extinction in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming polymer and organic polymer in ARK: Survival Evolved on the Extinction map requires a good understanding of the map's unique biomes and the creatures that drop these resources. Polymer is a high-tier crafting material used for advanced gear and structures, while organic polymer is a temporary substitute that can be harvested from certain creatures. Extinction offers several efficient ways to gather both resources, but preparation and strategy are key to maximizing your yield.

To farm polymer, you will need to focus on gathering obsidian and cementing paste. Obsidian can be found in the Snow Dome and the Desert Dome, often near rocky outcrops or cliffs. Cementing paste is crafted from chitin or keratin and stone, or it can be harvested from beaver dams in the Sanctuary biome. Once you have these materials, you can craft polymer at a fabricator or industrial forge. For organic polymer, the best sources are Karkinos (giant crabs) in the Desert Dome and Mantises in the Desert Biome. Both creatures drop large amounts of organic polymer when harvested with a chainsaw or a high-damage tool like a metal hatchet.

To begin farming organic polymer, head to the Desert Dome. Karkinos are large, aggressive creatures that can be found near the edges of the dome. They are dangerous, so bring a strong mount like a Rex or a high-level Spino to deal with them. Once you defeat a Karkinos, use a chainsaw to harvest its body for organic polymer. Mantises are smaller and easier to kill, but they are often found in groups, so be prepared for multiple enemies. A high-damage weapon or a tamed creature with good AoE attacks, like a Thylacoleo or a Carnotaurus, can make quick work of them. Harvest their bodies with a chainsaw or metal hatchet for organic polymer.

For polymer farming, start by gathering obsidian in the Snow Dome or Desert Dome. Bring an Ankylosaurus or a Magmasaur to efficiently mine the obsidian nodes. These creatures have weight reduction for obsidian, making it easier to transport large amounts. Next, gather chitin or keratin by killing creatures like Araneos (giant spiders) or Trilobites in the caves or along the riverbanks in the Sanctuary. Alternatively, you can raid beaver dams in the Sanctuary for cementing paste, but be cautious of the beavers, as they will attack if you take their resources. Once you have enough obsidian and cementing paste, craft polymer at a fabricator or industrial forge.

One common mistake is not bringing the right tools or creatures for harvesting. A chainsaw is essential for maximizing organic polymer yield, and a high-level Ankylosaurus or Magmasaur is crucial for efficient obsidian farming. Another mistake is underestimating the dangers of the Desert Dome. Karkinos and Mantises can quickly overwhelm unprepared players, so always bring a strong mount and healing items. Additionally, organic polymer spoils over time, so only gather what you need or store it in a preserving bin with preserving salt to extend its lifespan.

Advanced techniques include using a Tek Suit to quickly traverse the map and avoid dangerous creatures. A Tek Rifle can also be useful for killing Karkinos and Mantises from a safe distance. For polymer farming, consider setting up a small outpost near the Snow Dome or Desert Dome with a fabricator and storage boxes to reduce travel time. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks, such as one person gathering obsidian while another collects chitin or cementing paste. Solo players should focus on efficiency and avoid overextending in dangerous areas.

Resource requirements include a chainsaw, a high-damage weapon, a strong mount, and tools for gathering obsidian and chitin. Preparation involves stocking up on healing items, food, and water, as well as ensuring your equipment is repaired and your creatures are well-fed. Tribe considerations include assigning roles and sharing resources, while solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency.

In summary, farming polymer and organic polymer on Extinction requires careful planning and the right tools. Focus on the Desert Dome for organic polymer and the Snow Dome or Desert Dome for obsidian. Use strong mounts and efficient harvesting tools to maximize your yield, and always be prepared for the dangers of the map. With the right strategy, you can gather enough polymer and organic polymer to craft advanced gear and structures in ARK: Survival Evolved.