What are the best locations to farm metal on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming metal on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for progression, as metal is used in crafting advanced tools, weapons, and structures. Valguero offers several excellent locations for metal farming, each with its own advantages and challenges. Understanding the mechanics, strategies, and preparation required will help you maximize your metal yield efficiently.

One of the best locations for metal farming on Valguero is the White Cliffs area, located in the northwest part of the map. This region is rich in metal nodes, which are large, shiny rocks that can be harvested for metal. Another prime location is the Snow Biome, particularly around the mountains and high-altitude areas. These spots often have dense clusters of metal nodes, making them ideal for large-scale farming. Additionally, the Aberration Trench, a unique underground area on Valguero, contains metal-rich nodes and other valuable resources like crystal and obsidian.

To farm metal effectively, you will need the right tools and dinosaurs. A metal pickaxe is essential for harvesting metal nodes, as it yields more metal than a stone pickaxe. However, using a dinosaur like an Ankylosaurus is far more efficient. The Ankylosaurus has a high melee damage stat, which increases the amount of metal harvested per node. Additionally, its weight reduction for metal allows you to carry more before becoming encumbered. For transportation, a high-weight dinosaur like an Argentavis or a Quetzal is recommended. These flying creatures can carry the Ankylosaurus and the harvested metal, making the process faster and more efficient.

Preparation is key to successful metal farming. Before heading out, ensure you have enough food, water, and tools. Bring a few preserving bins or a refrigerator to store any perishable items. It is also wise to bring a bed or sleeping bag in case you need to respawn nearby. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks, such as scouting, harvesting, and transporting resources. Solo players should focus on minimizing risks by avoiding dangerous areas and using tamed dinosaurs for protection.

When farming metal, always be aware of your surroundings. Valguero is home to many dangerous creatures, such as raptors, wolves, and even the occasional Giganotosaurus. Having a strong mount like a Rex or a Spino can help fend off threats while you focus on harvesting. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near your farming location. This outpost can serve as a safe haven to store resources, repair tools, and restock supplies.

One common mistake is overloading your dinosaurs with too much metal, causing them to become encumbered and unable to move. To avoid this, distribute the weight evenly among your dinosaurs or make multiple trips if necessary. Another mistake is not bringing enough tools or backup equipment. Metal nodes can deplete quickly, and running out of pickaxes or having your Ankylosaurus die can halt your progress. Always carry extra tools and have a plan for emergencies.

Advanced techniques can further optimize your metal farming. For example, using a Quetzal with a platform saddle allows you to carry an Ankylosaurus directly to metal nodes, eliminating the need for multiple trips. You can also use a whip to quickly gather metal from the ground after your Ankylosaurus breaks the nodes. Additionally, setting up a forge near your farming location can save time by allowing you to smelt metal on the spot, reducing the need to transport raw metal back to your base.

Resource requirements for metal farming include metal tools, preserving bins, and tamed dinosaurs. You will also need a steady supply of food and water for yourself and your dinosaurs. If you are playing in a tribe, consider assigning roles to each member, such as one person focusing on harvesting while another handles transportation and defense. Solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency, using tamed dinosaurs to handle most of the work.

In conclusion, farming metal on Valguero requires careful planning, the right tools, and efficient use of dinosaurs. The White Cliffs, Snow Biome, and Aberration Trench are excellent locations for metal nodes. Using an Ankylosaurus and a flying mount like an Argentavis or Quetzal will significantly increase your metal yield. Always be prepared for dangers, avoid common mistakes, and consider advanced techniques to optimize your farming. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you gather the metal needed for advanced crafting and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.