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

Farming obsidian on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for players looking to craft advanced items like polymer, electronics, and high-tier structures. Obsidian is a rare resource found in specific locations, and Valguero offers several prime spots for efficient farming. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm obsidian effectively, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Obsidian is primarily found in mountainous regions and volcanic areas. On Valguero, the best locations for obsidian are the White Cliffs, the Snow Biome, and the Volcano. Each of these areas has clusters of obsidian nodes that respawn after a certain period, making them ideal for repeated farming. The White Cliffs, located in the northwest part of the map, have several obsidian nodes scattered along the cliffsides. The Snow Biome, in the northeast, also contains obsidian nodes, often near metal and crystal deposits. The Volcano, situated in the central part of the map, is another excellent location, with obsidian nodes found on its slopes and inside the crater.

To farm obsidian efficiently, you will need the right tools and dinosaurs. A metal pickaxe or an Ankylosaurus is essential for gathering obsidian. The Ankylosaurus is particularly effective because it has a high harvesting multiplier for obsidian and can carry a large amount of weight. If you are using an Ankylosaurus, make sure to level up its melee damage and weight capacity to maximize efficiency. Additionally, having a flyer like an Argentavis or a Quetzal can help transport the Ankylosaurus and the gathered obsidian back to your base.

Preparation is key before heading out to farm obsidian. Ensure you have enough food, water, and tools for the journey. If you are venturing into the Snow Biome, bring fur armor or other cold-resistant gear to avoid freezing. In the Volcano, heat-resistant gear is necessary to prevent overheating. It is also wise to bring a few preserving bins or a refrigerator to store any perishable items you might collect along the way.

When farming obsidian, always be aware of your surroundings. The White Cliffs and Snow Biome are home to dangerous creatures like wolves, sabertooths, and yutyrannus. The Volcano has its own set of threats, including fire wyverns and other aggressive dinosaurs. Having a strong mount like a Rex or a Spino can help fend off these threats while you focus on gathering resources.

One common mistake players make is not bringing enough storage or weight capacity. Obsidian is heavy, and without proper preparation, you might find yourself over-encumbered and unable to move. To avoid this, use dinosaurs with high weight capacity or bring multiple trips if necessary. Another mistake is not marking the locations of obsidian nodes on your map. This can make it difficult to find them again after they respawn. Use map markers or GPS coordinates to keep track of the best farming spots.

Advanced techniques for farming obsidian include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry an Ankylosaurus. This allows you to fly directly to the obsidian nodes and harvest them without dismounting. Another technique is to build a small outpost near the farming area. This outpost can serve as a storage and resting point, reducing the need to travel back and forth to your main base.

Tribe considerations are important when farming obsidian. If you are part of a tribe, coordinate with your members to maximize efficiency. Assign roles such as gathering, transportation, and defense to ensure a smooth operation. Solo players should focus on building a strong mount and preparing adequately for the journey.

In summary, farming obsidian on Valguero requires careful planning and preparation. The White Cliffs, Snow Biome, and Volcano are the best locations for obsidian nodes. Use an Ankylosaurus or a metal pickaxe for efficient harvesting, and bring a flyer for transportation. Be aware of the dangers in each area and prepare accordingly. Avoid common mistakes like insufficient storage and not marking node locations. Advanced techniques like using a Quetzal with a platform saddle can further optimize your farming. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you gather obsidian efficiently and progress in the game.