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

Farming obsidian on Extinction in ARK: Survival Evolved is an essential task for players looking to craft advanced items like polymer, electronics, and high-tier structures. Obsidian is a rare resource that is primarily found in specific locations on the map, and knowing where to look and how to efficiently gather it can save you a lot of time and effort. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm obsidian on Extinction, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips to optimize your farming runs.

Obsidian on Extinction is most commonly found in the Snow Dome and the Desert Dome, with smaller amounts scattered in the Sunken Forest and the Wasteland. The Snow Dome is the most reliable location for large quantities of obsidian, as it contains several rich nodes that respawn relatively quickly. The Desert Dome also has obsidian nodes, but they are less concentrated and often harder to access due to the harsh environment and dangerous creatures. The Sunken Forest and Wasteland have limited obsidian deposits, making them less ideal for farming unless you are already in the area for other resources.

To farm obsidian efficiently, you will need the right tools and dinosaurs. A high-quality metal pickaxe is essential for gathering obsidian, as it yields more resources per node compared to lower-tier tools. Additionally, using a dinosaur with high weight capacity and the ability to carry heavy loads is crucial. The Ankylosaurus is the best choice for this task, as it has a weight reduction for obsidian and can gather large amounts quickly. If you do not have an Ankylosaurus, a Mantis equipped with a pickaxe can also be effective, though it is less durable and requires more micromanagement.

Before heading out to farm obsidian, make sure to prepare adequately. Bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, especially if you are venturing into the Snow Dome or Desert Dome, as these areas can be hazardous. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a pack of strong tames to protect you from hostile creatures. In a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure that someone is always on guard while others gather resources. It is also a good idea to set up a small outpost near the farming location with storage boxes and a bed for respawning in case of emergencies.

When farming obsidian in the Snow Dome, start by entering the dome through the main entrance and head towards the central area. Look for large black rocks with a shiny, glass-like texture. These are the obsidian nodes. Use your Ankylosaurus or pickaxe to harvest them, and be mindful of your weight limit. If you are using an Ankylosaurus, its weight reduction for obsidian will allow you to carry more before becoming encumbered. However, if you are on foot or using a Mantis, you may need to make multiple trips or bring a second dinosaur to act as a pack mule.

In the Desert Dome, obsidian nodes are often found near the edges of the map or in rocky outcrops. The environment here is more dangerous, with threats like Rock Elementals and Wyverns, so proceed with caution. Use a flying mount like an Argentavis or Snow Owl to scout the area and locate obsidian nodes before landing to harvest them. Keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to flee if necessary.

One common mistake players make when farming obsidian is overloading their dinosaurs or themselves, leading to slow movement and vulnerability to attacks. Always monitor your weight and make sure you have a clear path back to your base or outpost before gathering too much obsidian. Another mistake is neglecting to bring enough supplies, especially in the Snow Dome, where the cold can quickly drain your health and stamina. Always carry fur armor or other cold-resistant gear to mitigate this risk.

For advanced players, consider using a Tek Suit to farm obsidian more efficiently. The Tek Suit allows you to fly and carry more weight, making it easier to gather large amounts of obsidian quickly. Additionally, using a Quetzal with a platform saddle and an Ankylosaurus on board can be a highly effective method for farming obsidian in bulk. This setup allows you to transport the Ankylosaurus to different nodes without dismounting, saving time and reducing the risk of encountering hostile creatures.

In conclusion, farming obsidian on Extinction requires careful planning, the right tools, and a good understanding of the map. By focusing on the Snow Dome and Desert Dome, using an Ankylosaurus or Mantis, and preparing adequately, you can gather large amounts of obsidian efficiently. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and resource management to make the most of your farming runs. With these strategies and tips, you will be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of obsidian farming on Extinction.