How do I locate the artifact of the Brute in the Swamp Cave on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating the Artifact of the Brute in the Swamp Cave on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task. This artifact is one of the key items required to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the game's major bosses. The Swamp Cave is located in the Redwood Forest biome, and it is one of the most dangerous caves in the game due to its hostile environment and creatures. Here is a detailed guide to help you successfully navigate the cave and retrieve the artifact.

First, let's discuss the mechanics involved. The Swamp Cave is filled with toxic gas, which rapidly drains your health unless you have proper protection. The cave is also home to dangerous creatures like Arthropluera, Titanoboas, and Megalania, which can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. The artifact itself is located deep within the cave, and you will need to navigate through tight spaces, water sections, and hostile creatures to reach it.

To prepare for this expedition, you will need a few key items. The most important is a Gas Mask or a full set of SCUBA gear, as the toxic gas in the cave will kill you without protection. You will also need a strong mount, such as a Megatherium or a Baryonyx, to help you fight off the creatures inside. Bring plenty of medical brews and food to sustain yourself, as well as weapons like a shotgun or crossbow for dealing with enemies. It's also a good idea to bring a few grappling hooks in case you need to escape quickly.

Now, let's go through the step-by-step process of retrieving the artifact. Start by heading to the Redwood Forest biome, located in the central part of The Island. The Swamp Cave entrance is near the border of the Redwood Forest and the Swamp, at coordinates 62.7, 37.3. Once you find the entrance, equip your Gas Mask or SCUBA gear and enter the cave with your mount.

As you move through the cave, be cautious of the Arthropluera, which can spit acid and deal significant damage. Use your mount to take them out quickly. You will also encounter Titanoboas, which can knock you off your mount and poison you. Keep your distance and use ranged weapons to deal with them. The Megalania can be tricky, as they often cling to the walls and ceilings. Use your mount to clear them out or use a grappling hook to avoid them.

The cave has several water sections, so make sure your mount can swim. The Baryonyx is an excellent choice for this cave, as it can swim and has a powerful tail spin attack that can stun enemies. As you progress deeper into the cave, you will come across a large chamber with a pool of water in the center. The Artifact of the Brute is located in a small alcove on the far side of this chamber. Be prepared for a fight, as this area is often guarded by multiple creatures.

Once you reach the artifact, grab it quickly and make your way back to the entrance. The return trip can be just as dangerous, so stay alert and use your mount to clear any enemies that respawn. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a few extra Gas Masks or SCUBA tanks in case your current one breaks. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover each other and share resources.

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when attempting this cave. One is underestimating the toxic gas. Without proper protection, you will die quickly, so always make sure your Gas Mask or SCUBA gear is equipped and in good condition. Another mistake is bringing the wrong mount. Some creatures, like the Rex or Spino, are too large to fit through certain sections of the cave, so choose a mount that can navigate tight spaces and swim. Finally, don't rush through the cave. Take your time to clear out enemies and avoid unnecessary risks.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations you can make. One is to use a Cryopod to bring a strong mount into the cave, even if it wouldn't normally fit. This allows you to use a powerful creature like a Rex or Spino to clear the cave quickly. Another optimization is to use a grappling hook to bypass certain sections of the cave, especially if you are playing solo and need to avoid large groups of enemies.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a Gas Mask or SCUBA gear, a strong mount, weapons, medical brews, and food. If you are in a tribe, consider bringing extra supplies to share with your teammates. Solo players should focus on self-sufficiency and bring extra protection in case of emergencies.

In conclusion, retrieving the Artifact of the Brute from the Swamp Cave is a challenging but achievable task with the right preparation and strategy. By following this guide, you can navigate the cave's dangers, defeat its creatures, and secure the artifact for your boss fight preparations. Good luck, and may your survival skills guide you to victory.