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

Farming obsidian on Ragnarok 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 Ragnarok offers several excellent spots to gather it efficiently. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm obsidian effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Obsidian is primarily found in mountainous and volcanic regions, often appearing as black, shiny rocks. To harvest it, you need tools like a metal pick or a high-level creature with good harvesting capabilities, such as an Ankylosaurus or a Mantis with a metal pick equipped. Obsidian is heavy, so youÔÇÖll need a strong creature or multiple trips to transport large amounts.

One of the best locations to farm obsidian on Ragnarok is the Highlands Volcano. This area is rich in obsidian nodes, which are scattered around the volcanoÔÇÖs slopes and inside the crater. Another great spot is the Wyvern Trench, where obsidian nodes can be found along the cliffs and rocky outcrops. The Desert Canyon and the mountains near the Blue Obelisk also have decent obsidian deposits, though they are less concentrated than the volcano.

To begin farming obsidian, youÔÇÖll need to prepare properly. First, ensure you have a strong harvesting creature like an Ankylosaurus. Ankylos are ideal because they have a weight reduction for obsidian and can gather large amounts quickly. If you donÔÇÖt have an Ankylo, a Mantis with a metal pick is a good alternative, though it requires more preparation to tame and equip. Bring a flyer like an Argentavis or a Quetzal to carry your harvesting creature and transport the obsidian back to your base. Argentavis are particularly useful because they also have a weight reduction for obsidian.

When farming obsidian, always scout the area first to ensure itÔÇÖs safe. The Highlands Volcano, for example, is home to dangerous creatures like Allosaurus and Carnotaurus, so be prepared to defend yourself. Clear out any threats before starting to harvest. If youÔÇÖre farming in the Wyvern Trench, be cautious of wild Wyverns, which can be deadly if youÔÇÖre not careful. Having a fast flyer or a creature with high health and damage output can help you escape or fight back if needed.

A common mistake players make is not bringing enough weight capacity or forgetting to bring a flyer to transport the obsidian. Obsidian is extremely heavy, and without a creature to carry it, youÔÇÖll quickly become over-encumbered. Another mistake is not clearing the area of threats before starting to farm. Getting attacked mid-harvest can lead to losing your creature or even your life, so always prioritize safety.

For advanced players, optimizing your farming route can save time and increase efficiency. For example, at the Highlands Volcano, you can circle the crater to hit multiple obsidian nodes in one trip. Using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry your Ankylo allows you to harvest obsidian while flying, making the process faster and safer. Additionally, using a whip can help you gather obsidian more quickly, as it can pull resources from a distance.

Resource management is key when farming obsidian. Since itÔÇÖs heavy, youÔÇÖll need to plan how much you can carry and how many trips youÔÇÖll need. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider setting up a small outpost near the farming location with storage boxes and a bed. This way, you can store obsidian and respawn nearby if something goes wrong. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players and creatures can make the process much faster. One player can focus on harvesting while others handle transportation and defense.

In summary, farming obsidian on Ragnarok requires preparation, the right tools, and a good strategy. Focus on high-yield locations like the Highlands Volcano and Wyvern Trench, use strong harvesting creatures like Ankylos, and always prioritize safety. Avoid common mistakes like over-encumbrance and failing to clear threats, and consider advanced techniques like using a Quetzal platform saddle or a whip for efficiency. With these tips, youÔÇÖll be able to gather obsidian effectively and progress in your ARK journey.