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, extreme heat, and dangerous creatures like Deathworms, Wyverns, and Carnotaurus. However, with proper preparation and strategy, you can safely gather valuable resources such as metal, crystal, sulfur, and organic polymer. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you navigate this biome effectively.

First, preparation is key. Before venturing into the Desert Biome, ensure you have the right equipment and tames. A high-level Argentavis or Wyvern is highly recommended for transportation and carrying heavy resources. Argentavis is particularly useful because it can carry smaller creatures like Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus, which are essential for farming metal and stone. Additionally, bring a good set of armor, preferably Desert Cloth Armor, to mitigate the heat. Stock up on water containers like Waterskins or Canteens, as dehydration is a major threat in the desert. Bring plenty of food, medical brews, and stimulants to counteract heatstroke and stamina drain.

When gathering resources, always scout the area first. Use a flying mount to survey the terrain and identify resource nodes like metal rocks, crystal formations, and sulfur deposits. Be cautious of hostile creatures, especially Deathworms, which burrow underground and can ambush you. If you spot a Deathworm, avoid engaging unless you are well-prepared with a strong mount like a Rex or a pack of high-level wolves. For crystal and sulfur, the best spots are near the edges of the desert, close to the mountains. These areas are less populated by dangerous creatures and provide easier access to resources.

For metal farming, bring an Ankylosaurus. Metal nodes are scattered throughout the desert, particularly near the rocky outcrops and cliffs. Use the Ankylosaurus to harvest these nodes efficiently. If you donÔÇÖt have an Ankylosaurus, a metal pickaxe will work, but itÔÇÖs much slower. Always keep your mount close and be ready to flee if a threat appears. For stone, a Doedicurus is ideal. Stone nodes are abundant in the desert, and the Doedicurus can gather large amounts quickly. Be mindful of your weight limit, as stone is heavy, and overloading your mount can slow you down.

Crystal and sulfur are also valuable resources in the desert. Crystal nodes are often found on cliffs and rocky areas, while sulfur deposits are typically near the lava flows in the southern part of the desert. Use a metal pickaxe or a mining drill to gather these resources. Be cautious when mining sulfur, as the area is often patrolled by Wyverns. If you encounter a Wyvern, retreat immediately unless you have a strong mount or a tribe to back you up.

One common mistake is underestimating the heat. The Desert Biome can cause rapid dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal if not managed properly. Always carry extra water and avoid traveling during the hottest parts of the day. Another mistake is overloading your mount with resources, leaving you vulnerable to attacks. Always prioritize safety over greed, and make multiple trips if necessary.

Advanced techniques include setting up a small outpost near the desert for resource storage and crafting. This can save time and reduce the risk of losing resources during long trips. Use a Quetzal or a platform saddle on a Brontosaurus to transport large amounts of resources back to your main base. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider taming a pack of Direwolves or Sabertooths for protection. These creatures are fast and can handle most threats in the desert.

In terms of tribe considerations, teamwork is crucial. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person scouting, another gathering resources, and a third providing protection. This division of labor can significantly increase efficiency and safety. For solo players, focus on taming versatile mounts like the Argentavis, which can handle multiple tasks, from transportation to combat.

In summary, gathering resources in the Desert Biome on Ragnarok requires careful preparation, the right tames, and a cautious approach. Always scout the area, manage your hydration and heat levels, and be ready to retreat if necessary. With these strategies, you can safely harvest the valuable resources the desert has to offer.