What are the best strategies for farming resources in the Desert Biome on Scorched Earth in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming resources in the Desert Biome on Scorched Earth in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and preparation due to the harsh environment and the unique challenges it presents. The Desert Biome is rich in valuable resources like metal, crystal, sulfur, and salt, but it is also home to dangerous creatures such as Deathworms, Rock Elementals, and Wyverns. Here is a detailed guide to help you efficiently gather resources in this biome.

First, you need to prepare for the extreme heat and lack of water in the Desert Biome. Always carry a full water container or a water jar, and consider using a Canteen for better water storage. Wearing Desert Cloth Armor is essential to reduce heatstroke and water consumption. Additionally, bring a tent or a shelter to protect yourself from the heat during the day. A good strategy is to farm during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to avoid the worst of the heat.

For resource gathering, you will need the right tools and dinosaurs. A Metal Pick and Metal Hatchet are essential for mining metal, crystal, and sulfur nodes. An Ankylosaurus is highly recommended for mining metal and crystal, as it has a weight reduction for these resources and can gather them more efficiently than a player. A Doedicurus is ideal for gathering stone, which is abundant in the Desert Biome. For farming salt, you can use a Metal Pick or a Mantis with a Pick in its hands. Salt nodes are found in the dry riverbeds and can be easily spotted by their white, crystalline appearance.

When venturing into the Desert Biome, always be aware of your surroundings. Deathworms can burrow underground and ambush you, so having a strong mount like a Rex or a Wyvern is crucial for defense. Rock Elementals are another threat, and they can be found near rocky areas. These creatures are slow but deal massive damage, so it is best to avoid them or use ranged weapons to take them down from a distance.

Base building in the Desert Biome requires careful consideration of the environment. Build your base near a water source, such as an oasis, to ensure a steady supply of water. Use Adobe structures to keep your base cool and reduce the risk of heatstroke. Adobe structures also have higher durability against the heat and sandstorms, making them ideal for the Desert Biome. Always have a backup generator and a few water reservoirs in case of emergencies.

Resource management is key to surviving in the Desert Biome. Prioritize gathering metal and crystal, as these are essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. Sulfur is another important resource, used for crafting gunpowder and explosives. Salt is useful for preserving food and crafting certain recipes. Always keep an eye on your inventory weight and use dinosaurs with high weight capacity to carry resources back to your base.

For solo players, the challenges of the Desert Biome can be daunting. It is important to have a well-trained mount and a secure base to fall back to. Consider taming a high-level Ankylosaurus and Doedicurus to help with resource gathering. For tribes, coordination is key. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person gathering metal while another gathers crystal. This will maximize efficiency and ensure that all necessary resources are collected.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport large amounts of resources. You can also use a Paracer with a platform saddle and a ramp to create a mobile mining base. This allows you to gather resources directly from the nodes and store them on the platform, reducing the need for multiple trips. Another advanced strategy is to use a Tek Transmitter to quickly transport resources back to your main base.

Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into the Desert Biome unprepared. Always bring enough water, food, and supplies to last for an extended period. Do not underestimate the dangers of the biome, and always be ready to defend yourself against hostile creatures. Another mistake is overloading your inventory or your mount, which can slow you down and make you an easy target for predators.

In summary, farming resources in the Desert Biome on Scorched Earth requires careful preparation, the right tools and dinosaurs, and a good understanding of the environment. By following these strategies and tips, you can efficiently gather the resources you need while minimizing the risks associated with the harsh desert conditions. Whether you are playing solo or as part of a tribe, these techniques will help you thrive in one of the most challenging biomes in ARK: Survival Evolved.