What are the best ways to farm crystal on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming crystal on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for players looking to craft advanced items like electronics, scopes, and other high-tier equipment. Crystal is a valuable resource, and Valguero offers several efficient locations and methods to gather it. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm crystal effectively on this map.

Crystal nodes are large, glowing formations that can be found in specific areas of Valguero. They are most commonly located in mountainous regions, caves, and certain biomes. To harvest crystal, you will need tools like a metal pick or an Ankylosaurus, which is the most efficient dinosaur for gathering crystal due to its high damage and weight reduction for this resource. Other creatures like the Mantis or the Doedicurus can also be used, but they are less efficient compared to the Ankylosaurus.

One of the best locations to farm crystal on Valguero is the White Cliffs area, located in the northwest part of the map. This region is rich in crystal nodes and is relatively safe compared to other areas. Another excellent spot is the Aberration Trench, which is a unique biome on Valguero that mimics the Aberration DLC. The trench is filled with crystal nodes, but it is also home to dangerous creatures like Nameless and Rock Drakes, so caution is advised. The Snow Biome is another good location, but it comes with the added challenge of cold weather, so you will need appropriate gear or a cold-resistant dinosaur like the Otter or Fur Armor.

To begin farming crystal, you should first prepare by gathering the necessary tools and taming an Ankylosaurus if possible. The Ankylosaurus is a game-changer for crystal farming due to its ability to gather large amounts of crystal quickly and its weight reduction for this resource. If you are playing solo, taming an Ankylosaurus should be a priority. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your tribe members to ensure you have at least one Ankylosaurus for resource gathering.

Once you have your tools and dinosaur ready, head to one of the crystal-rich areas mentioned above. If you are in the White Cliffs, you can easily spot the crystal nodes scattered across the cliffs. Use your Ankylosaurus to harvest the nodes by attacking them with its tail. The Ankylosaurus will gather crystal efficiently, and its weight reduction will allow you to carry more before needing to return to your base. If you are using a metal pick, make sure to have a high melee damage stat to maximize the amount of crystal you gather per swing.

When farming in the Aberration Trench, be prepared for the dangers that come with it. The trench is home to aggressive creatures, so it is advisable to bring a strong mount like a Rex or a Spino for protection. Additionally, the trench is dark, so bring a light source or a creature that provides light, such as a Glowtail or a Shinehorn. The crystal nodes in the trench are abundant, but the environment is hazardous, so always be on guard.

In the Snow Biome, the cold weather can be a significant challenge. Make sure to wear Fur Armor or have a cold-resistant dinosaur like the Otter to keep warm. The crystal nodes in this biome are often found on the mountainsides, so be prepared for some climbing. A flying mount like an Argentavis can be very useful for transporting your Ankylosaurus to these high-altitude locations.

One common mistake players make when farming crystal is not bringing enough weight-reducing dinosaurs or tools. Crystal is a heavy resource, and without proper weight management, you will quickly become encumbered. Always bring an Ankylosaurus or a high-weight dinosaur like a Brontosaurus to carry the crystal back to your base. Another mistake is not being prepared for the dangers of certain areas. Always bring a strong mount and appropriate gear when venturing into hazardous zones like the Aberration Trench or the Snow Biome.

Advanced techniques for crystal farming include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport your Ankylosaurus to hard-to-reach locations. This allows you to farm crystal in areas that are otherwise inaccessible. Additionally, using a Tek Stryder with a mining drill can be highly efficient, but this requires advanced technology and is more suitable for late-game players.

In terms of resource requirements and preparation, you will need a metal pick or an Ankylosaurus, appropriate gear for the environment, and a strong mount for protection. If you are farming in the Snow Biome, make sure to have Fur Armor or a cold-resistant dinosaur. For the Aberration Trench, bring a light source and a strong combat mount.

Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the strategies for farming crystal remain largely the same. However, in a tribe, you can coordinate with your members to have multiple Ankylosauruses and strong mounts for protection, making the process more efficient. Solo players should focus on taming an Ankylosaurus and preparing adequately for the dangers of the farming locations.

In conclusion, farming crystal on Valguero requires careful preparation and knowledge of the best locations. By using an Ankylosaurus, bringing appropriate gear, and being aware of the dangers in each area, you can efficiently gather large amounts of crystal to support your crafting needs. Whether you are a solo player or part of a tribe, these strategies will help you maximize your crystal farming efforts on Valguero.