Where are the best locations to farm oil on Aberration in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming oil on Aberration in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical task for mid to late-game progression, as oil is essential for crafting advanced items like gasoline, polymer, and various industrial structures. Aberration, being a unique map with its own challenges and resources, requires specific strategies to efficiently gather oil. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm oil effectively on Aberration, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Oil on Aberration is primarily found in the form of oil nodes, which are scattered in specific areas of the map. Unlike other maps where oil can be harvested from underwater nodes or creatures like Trilobites, AberrationÔÇÖs oil nodes are located in hazardous zones, making the process more challenging. The most reliable locations for oil farming are in the Bioluminescent and Radiation Zones. In the Bioluminescent Zone, oil nodes can be found near the edges of the water, while the Radiation Zone has oil nodes scattered throughout, often near the rivers or in the deeper parts of the zone.

To begin farming oil, you will need the right tools and preparation. A high-level pickaxe or a metal hatchet is essential for harvesting oil nodes efficiently. Additionally, having a strong mount, such as a Ravager or a Karkinos, is highly recommended for navigating the dangerous areas where oil is found. The Ravager is particularly useful due to its ability to climb ziplines, which can help you traverse the map quickly and avoid hostile creatures. If you are venturing into the Radiation Zone, you will need a Hazard Suit or a full set of Ghillie Armor combined with a Gas Mask to protect yourself from the radiation.

When farming oil in the Bioluminescent Zone, start by heading to the water edges near the Fertile Lake or the rivers that flow through the zone. Oil nodes here are often found on the ground near the water, and they respawn relatively quickly. Be cautious of hostile creatures like Raptors, Carnos, and Spinos, which are common in this area. Using a Ravager or a pack of tamed creatures can help you defend yourself while harvesting. If you are farming solo, consider setting up a small outpost nearby with a bed and storage to minimize travel time.

In the Radiation Zone, oil nodes are more abundant but also more dangerous to access. The radiation in this zone will quickly drain your health if you are not properly equipped, so ensure you have a Hazard Suit or sufficient protection before entering. Oil nodes here are often found near the rivers or in the deeper parts of the zone, close to the Element Veins. Be prepared to encounter dangerous creatures like Nameless, Reapers, and Rock Drakes. Having a strong mount like a Rock Drake or a Karkinos can make this process safer and more efficient. If you are in a tribe, consider bringing a team to cover more ground and defend against threats.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of the Radiation Zone. Without proper protection, you can quickly die from radiation poisoning, losing all your gathered resources. Always double-check your gear before entering this area. Another mistake is not bringing enough tools or backup equipment. Oil nodes can deplete quickly, and having multiple pickaxes or hatchets ensures you can continue farming without interruption.

For advanced players, optimizing oil farming can involve setting up a small base or outpost near the oil-rich areas. This allows you to store resources and respawn quickly if you die. Additionally, using a Karkinos to carry multiple oil nodes at once can significantly speed up the process. If you are in a tribe, coordinating with teammates to cover different areas can maximize efficiency. For example, one player can focus on gathering oil while another defends against threats or transports resources back to the main base.

Resource management is also crucial when farming oil. Oil is heavy, so having a mount with high weight capacity or using a Karkinos to carry multiple nodes is essential. If you are farming solo, consider using a Ravager with a saddlebag to increase your carrying capacity. Additionally, always bring enough food, water, and medical supplies to sustain yourself during long farming sessions.

In summary, farming oil on Aberration requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a strong mount. Focus on the Bioluminescent and Radiation Zones for the best oil yields, but be prepared for the dangers these areas present. Avoid common mistakes like entering the Radiation Zone without proper protection or not bringing backup tools. Advanced techniques, such as setting up outposts or using a Karkinos, can optimize your farming efficiency. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you gather oil effectively and progress in the game.